LabSmith Introduces 8-Channel Programmable Experiment Controller

Livermore, CA, September 27, 2002 – LabSmith, manufacturer of innovative laboratory electronics, has introduced the LC880 Programmable Experiment Controller for synchronization, integration and control of complex physical experiments. The LC880 is the first system to combine eight channels of 10-nanosecond resolution timing functions with fully programmable channel triggering logic, for complete experiment control from a single station.

LabSmith's LC880 enables high-speed experimentation in applications including gas dynamics, fluid flow, combustion, materials science, MEMS/BioMEMS, fracture mechanics and life sciences.

"The LC880 combines a rack full of timing, cabling and delay generation in a single package," explains Eric Cummings, president of LabSmith. "Controlling and synchronizing experimental equipment can be tedious. Researchers regularly build controls from scratch or piece together systems from limited market offerings. The LC880 greatly exceeds the functionality of delay generators and logic units, integrating eight timing channels, unique timing modes and programmable trigger logic in one box. It's a high performance solution that allows researchers to focus on science, not laboratory chores."

The LC880 features eight timing processors which serve as digital delays (8 microseconds to over 1000 seconds), counters, inverters, clocks and other basic functions, with 10 nanosecond resolution and 100 picosecond accuracy.

Two unique timing modes let researchers control difficult-to-manage events for the first time. Dynamic timing captures elusive phenomena in such applications as gas dynamics and ballistics. Noise suppression tames noisy signals without distortion, to avoid false triggering in harsh environments.

The LC880's programmable channel logic enables triggering based upon any combination of the eight external inputs and/or channel outputs. A Microsoft® Windows® interface eases programming, monitoring, and recording of each experiment. Windows and LabView™ drivers support integration with other lab equipment.

Once the LC880 is programmed, dress-rehearsals can be simulated using software and front panel controls. The system can then function in stand-alone mode for set-and-forget control, or it can remain tethered to the computer for easy timing control. Up to 64 complete experiment settings can be stored and recalled from the controller, letting an experimenter model various real-world conditions without reprogramming.

Source: LabSmith