frequency from voltage analog input

[Rick C]

Hi,

I am using an analog input (FP-AI-100) with a 17 volt AC voltage source attached.  I am trying to find out how to get the frequency from this.  I have tried using Extract Single Tone Information.vi to get the frequency, but I don't think that the output that it gives me is correct.  In order to use that vi, I had to make a for loop that loops 100 times and collects the data from the fieldpoint device in an array, then I send the array to the above vi.  Is there a better way to obtain the frequency?  Or any thoughts on what I am doing wrong?

Rick

[Efosa O.]

Rick hello.

What kind of values are you getting that makes you doubt the output. I have attached an example that uses 2 different VIs to detect the frequency of a simulated signal. They both work fine. I used your VI and the Period Measurements VI. Let me know how it goes.

Efosa O.
NIAE

[Rick_K]

First of all, what is the frequency that you are trying to measure with this method? As you mentioned you need a sampling rate that is much faster than the frequency you are trying to measure. Nyquist says you have to go at least two times, but the more samples you get the more accurate the "Extract Single Tone measurement" will be. Keep in mind that the AI 100 max update rate is about 360Hz. Also, you will have to get the samples into an array and pass it to the VI. The more periods of the wave you pass the more accurate it will be as well. Lastly, if you are not getting good results you should try to convert the frequency analog wave to a square wave of the same frequency. Doing this will allow you to use one of the counter modules for Fieldpoint, which can measure frequencies much higher using counter techniques.

I hope this information helps,
Rick Kuhlman