Modular Measurement System – Acquire and Analyze Signals Synchronously and Precisely

Modular concept

One processor module can be combined with up to 15 different I/O modules. Modules are available for discrete input and output signals as well as for special technological features.

At the same time, the system can be flexibly extended at any time as requirements grow. The scalable system thus offers a high level of investment security and meets the most challenging requirements.

Universal processor module that can be used as an edge device

The ibaM-DAQ processor module is an extremely compact ibaPDA system that can function as a stand-alone device. Thanks to its compact design, ibaM-DAQ is ideal for use close to the process or plant – and wherever only limited space is available. In addition to the synchronous acquisition and storage of the measurement data, ibaM-DAQ is able to aggregate the data and calculate characteristic values on-board. These characteristic values can also be stored locally or forwarded to other systems. Thanks to the numerous network interfaces, ibaM-DAQ can be integrated into any IT structures.

Technology-specific solutions can be realized in combination with other iba applications, such as ibaInSpectra or ibaInCycle, whereby ibaM-DAQ assumes an important role as an edge device. With the ibaM-FO-2IO interface module you can couple additional iba devices via fiber optics and thus continue to integrate your existing iba systems. The 32Mbit Flex and 32Mbit ibaNet protocols are supported.

Deterministic, highly synchronous data acquisition

A significant advantage of the ibaMAQ system is the deterministic and highly synchronous measurement data acquisition of the different signal sources. The interface module ibaM-FO-2IO acts as internal clock generator and thus ensures a highly precise acquisition of measurement data.Synchronous acquisition is not only possible via fiber optics, but also via Ethernet with the ibaNet protocol ibaNet-E. If the ibaNet-E devices are then connected via the ibaNet interfaces, highly synchronous data acquisition is possible, which is required for example for fast TFR applications and applications in the energy sector.

Typical use cases

• Decentralized measurement data acquisition for local applications, e.g., test stands, injection molding machines, small plants, etc.
• Measurements on mobile equipment, e.g., cranes, special vehicles, etc.
• Measurement applications in electrical power engineering: TFR, PQU
• NVH measurement
• Vibration analysis
• Coupling of highly dynamic sensor data

Specific modules extend the scope of functions

In the course of the expansion of ibaMAQS, additional I/O modules, bus sniffers as well as special technology modules will be added step by step, which will continuously extend the system’s application spectrum.

Communication module for standard applications

The ibaM-COM communication module is available for applications which do not require local measured value processing and recording. It is used instead of the processor module and allows to transmit decentrally acquired measured values to central ibaPDA systems deterministically in time via Ethernet (ibaNet-E). Several decentralized systems can be acquired synchronously with a common sampling frequency.

An output from a central ibaPDA system via decentralized distributed I/O systems is also possible. The configuration is performed uniformly from the central ibaPDA system (plug and play). When using the communication module, no processor module is required.

Wide range of modules

The I/O modules of the system will cover all important signal types in the final state, such as analog and digital inputs and outputs, counter inputs and vibration signals. Special modules for acquiring measurements from current and voltage transformers are available for medium and high-voltage technology applications. The number of measuring channels per module is deliberately kept small to ensure optimum scalability.

Data exchange in all directions

In addition to the hardware modules, ibaMAQS offers a wide range of Ethernet-based communication protocols for use with the ibaM-DAQ processor module. Thanks to the integrated ibaPDA software, both ibaNet and standard Ethernet interfaces are available.

Using a variety of different protocols, the latter enable data exchange with most PLC and automation systems as well as with a number of databases, cloud providers and message brokers. ibaM-DAQ can both send and receive data. Standard protocols such as OPC DA, OPC UA, SNMP, TCP, UDP, MQTT and other cloud interfaces cover virtually all requirements. Special protocols, such as IEC 61850 for intelligent protection devices in power engineering, enable data acquisition in industry- specific systems. Manufacturer- specific protocols are also available for communication with selected measurement systems, e.g., temperature scanners, 3D scanners, etc.

High-precision acquisition

With a resolution of 24 bits for A/D conversion, the I/O modules are also equipped for very demanding measurement tasks. In addition, the modules offer calibrated A/D converters and galvanically isolated channels. All channels are sampled in parallel and synchronously; the sampling rate can be freely set up to 500 kS/s for some modules. 

Smart mechanics

ibaMAQS combines high functionality with an innovative mechanical concept in an extremely compact design. During development, the focus was on ensuring easy handling and quick mounting or replacement of the modules. The modules are simply plugged onto a DIN-rail and are immediately mechanically and electronically connected thanks to the innovative module connection technology. The integrated lever can be used to release the connection again and to remove or replace the module.

The order of the modules does not matter. The only requirement is that one processor or communication module must always be located on the left at the start of each row – it really couldn’t be simpler. Easy assignment and readability of the channels is ensured thanks to the clear labeling as well as the status and diagnostic displays. Depending on the module, errors such as broken wire or short circuit are also displayed.