Basics of Data Acquisition and Control

Data acquisition was traditionally carried out manually by noting down the readings of various instruments at specified times. Traditional instruments required extensive time and specific skills for adjusting the measuring range and for saving and documenting the results. Later, electronic recorders recorded the data acquired on paper plots. Computer-based data acquisition replaced paper records by digital data acquisition and storage. The automatic collection of data from sensors, instruments and devices in a factory, laboratory or in the field is called data acquisition. The use of computers in various aspects of data collection, control and analysis over the past few years has revolutionized modern-day research, development and manufacturing.