Introduction - Fourier TriLog User Manual

The TriLog™ is a triple platform data logger –- stand-alone, slot on to Palm™, or
connected to the PC & MAC. The TriLog is ideal for classroom mobility and outdoor
experimenting. Data can be turned into graph form, analyzed as well as exported to
spreadsheets - all in the palm of the hand. Based on the MultiLog technologies, the
TriLog carries all the same benefits plus more: 4 inputs with automatic sensor
recognition, 12 bit resolution and 256K sample memory. The TriLog also works with
nearly all of the MultiLog sensors, including leading sensors from other vendors.
TriLog can record data from up to 8 sensors simultaneously; it is capable of recording
at rates of up to 21,000 samples per second, and of collecting up to 100,000 samples
in its internal memory.
TriLog is very easy to use because all of its functions are broken down into only four
buttons. In addition, when a sensor is plugged in, the TriLog automatically recognizes
the type of sensor it is, and will record the data with the appropriate units.
A rechargeable battery powers the data logger, which automatically switches to
standby mode 5 minutes after the time of the last data recording, the last button was
pressed, or the last communication was made with the PC. While on standby, TriLog
switches to a low-power state whereby the electronic circuitry and the display are
turned off, using less power.
Combining a Palm handheld computer and the ImagiProbe™ software, TriLog
becomes a complete portable sensor based science laboratory that enables students
to collect and visually analyze data.
The TriLog system also comes with the powerful MultiLab software. When the TriLog
is connected to a PC, live displays can be viewed at rates of up to 100/s, and
automatic downloads can be carried out at higher rates. The WINDOWS™ based
software can display the data in graphs, tables or meters, can analyze data with
various mathematical tools, and can show live or recorded video movies of actual
experiments.
The large variety of sensors with which TriLog is compatible makes the unit a true
"digital lab", which can measure scientific phenomena from the fields of Physics,
Chemistry, Biology and Environmental Sciences.
This manual is divided into four sections:
•
The first section is dedicated to the data logger itself. Topics include:
Connecting sensors, configuration through the data logger buttons, and
using the LCD display to take measurements when working offline.
•
The second section explains how to operate the TriLog combined with Palm
and ImagiProbe software. Topics include: How to mount TriLog onto Palm,
how to use ImagiProbe software to program TriLog, collecting and viewing
data, and copying data from Palm to a desktop computer.
•
The third section gives a comprehensive overview of the MultiLab software.
Topics include: Working online, how to download data from the data logger
to a PC, analyzing the data both graphically and mathematically, using the
MultiLab software to program the data logger when working online, and
working with the video tool.
•
The fourth and last section contains hardware specifications and a
comprehensive troubleshooting guide that gives answers to common
questions.
8

Introduction

Introduction