Glossary - ADInstruments PowerLab 30 Series Owner's Manual

Glossary

AC coupling. A filter option. When AC coupling is chosen, a 0.1 Hz high-
pass filter before the first amplification stage removes DC and frequency
components below 0.1 Hz. This removes slowly changing baselines.
ADC (analog-to-digital converter). A device that converts analog
information into some corresponding digital voltage or current.
amplitude. The maximum vertical distance of a periodic wave from the zero
or mean position about which the wave oscillates.
analog. Varying smoothly and continuously over a range. An analog signal
varies continuously over time, rather than changing in discrete steps.
analog input. This refers to the connectors on the front of the PowerLab
marked 'Input' . These inputs are designed to accept up to ±10 volts. Inputs can
be either single-sided or differential (the latter only in the case of the pod
connectors).
analog output. This refers to the connectors on the front of the PowerLab
marked 'Output' . The analog output provides a software-controlled variable
output (±10 V) that can be used with applications either directly as a
stimulator, or to control peripheral devices. Not for use with human subjects.
analysis. When the PowerLab is not physically connected to the computer,
then ADInstruments software can be used to analyze and manipulate existing
files if the analysis option is chosen.
BNC (bayonet nut connector). A type of cable or connector; a BNC-to-BNC
cable connects two BNC connectors.
bridge transducer. A type of transducer using a Wheatstone bridge circuit. In
its basic form, the bridge consists of four two-terminal elements (usually
strain gauges) connected to form a quadrilateral. An excitation source is
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Glossary