VTI Instruments announces EXLab 5.0 update
July 30, 2014. VTI Instruments has announced the introduction of version 5.0 of its EXLab software suite for mechanical data acquisition. VTI developed the latest version of EXLab with the goal of eliminating software learning curves while providing the many capabilities users have come to expect from VTI products. This “setup and run” turn-key software is a complete solution for static-data acquisition purposes when combined with VTI's SentinelEX precision measurement instrumentation. EXLab offers a remote client architecture that allows multiple users to have access to the displays and data across a test facility. Version 5.0 adds support of the EMX series of modular dynamic signal analysis (DSA) products, with an Ethernet based communications interface that facilitates distributed measurement architectures.
Added to the large set of standard functions within EXLab is “Time Source Settings,” which can be used to achieve precision synchronization of acquired data to a GPS time source. The “One Click Check” feature allows test engineers and technicians to easily perform a final setup check prior to testing—reducing error and saving considerable time in system configuration.
“EXLab targets the end user whose primary interest is acquiring and processing data as quickly and efficiently as possible, and who has little time to invest in application software development,” Said Tom Sarfi, VP of product management. “The intuitive interface allows engineers to rapidly configure their SentinelEX mixed signal data acquisition system and be up and running within minutes, greatly increasing their productivity.”
For precision strain and fatigue applications, alarms can be set to alert users of fail conditions such as when limits for excitation voltage, shunt tolerance, bridge voltage, and lead-wire resistance have been exceeded. A custom alert function provides end users with the flexibility of creating application specific warnings. Those using VTI's EX1629 strain measurement device will also now have the ability to import and export initial voltage, a necessity when zero calibration is not available.
Other features include an optimized formula wizard; ratiometric transducer support for strain measurements; snapshot data allowing users to monitor the max, min, average, or the latest value; combination events (AND/OR); and strip chart x axis for easier monitoring of data. External cold junction compensation is now supported for the EX10xxA. Download a free trial of EXLab.