The L. S. Starrett Company (www.starrett.com) now is offering DataSure, a new wireless metrology data collection system.
DataSure uses radio transmissions to enable shop floor measurement data to be collected quickly, accurately and reliably without the need for cables.
The system uses a mesh network system architecture and proprietary design features to cover thousands of square feet of shop floor and overcome environmental factors such as factory logistics and electrical interference to reliably capture and transmit measurement data.
DataSure interfaces with most major brands of electronic measuring tools and software and installs on PCs that run Windows XP Professional. The system automates data collection, improving speed and accuracy when compared to manual recording. Also, by replacing costly and cumbersome wiring scenarios, DataSure lets users bring the gage to the work for more application flexibility and safety.
The system consists of three elements: miniature radios (end nodes) that connect to the data output ports of electronic tools, a gateway that connects to a PC via the USB or serial port, and signal routers which greatly extend the system range in increments of 100 ft (30 m) each and that can be configured to create the mesh architecture.
The system gathers data from the measuring tool and sends it to the software by the shortest or most robust connection path.
Once data is received, a confirmation signal is sent back to the tool to indicate the data was successfully (or unsuccessfully) received. In the event that the host system is down or busy, readings can be stored at the end node and re-sent until they are safely recorded. Collected data can then be analyzed using Starrett or other software products.
DataSure features include:
A radio system that works with Starrett, Mitutoyo, Sylvac, CDI, and various other manufacturers’ tools and gages.
A Gateway that can handle up to 100 tools utilizing the integral virtual multiplexer.
Each radio’s range is approximately 100 ft (30 m). Adding Routers can increase range in 100-ft increments up to 3,000 ft.
Users receive confirmation at the tool, indicating successful or unsuccessful transmission, system status, local data storage, etc.
End Nodes can store readings in the event that the host system is down or busy.
