daq with PDA

[K_seeker]

I am searching for a suitable PDA model that can be used for a demo system that will have more than 4 channels of AI about 2 AO and at least 1 counter. I own a PCMCI DAQ card from NI which can be used for this purpose. One of my main problem is that I can't locate a latest off the shelf PDA model that comes with a pcmcia slot (or PC card slot) Seems like none of the PDA manufacturer is putting a PC card slot in the newer units. I did find few Industrial units. The cost is about 2500 USD or more. (check Juniper Systems)

If any one of you are aware of any newer brands (HP Dell etc) that has a model that can help me please send me a link. Also I am wondering if I can get a CF to PCMCIA card converter will it work with a PDA for DAQ purposes. Of course NIMAX for PDA has to recognize the PCMCIA card over CF bus. (http://sewelldirect.com/cftopccardconverter.asp) I will probably be trying this soon. But if you have any idea please do share it with me.

Thanks. 

[arvin_labrat]

To my knowledge you have to buy an expanssion pack for most HP PDA.  I use a hp 5550 with an expansion pack for a 6062 Daq card.  Make sure what ever PDA you get that the limitations of DAQmx Base is not going to effect your project.

Good Luck

Eric

[K_seeker]

Eric,

Thanks for the repl. I can find the PDA on interne but when I search for the PCMCIA expansion sleeve I am told that the item is discontinued. Can you give me the part number and the lnk to source you get the expansion sleeve.

Thanks

[arvin_labrat]

Your right, nobody selling the expansion sleeve for the PCMCIA card.  Your best bet is probobly going to be the CF DAQ Card.

I got all my PDA stuff from Mobile Planet but they don't have any new Pocket PC Stuff with the expansion sleeve.

Sorry I couldn't be more help.

[wildcat_600]

Hello,

I just wanted to let you know that our PCMCIA DAQ cards are only supported on the PCMCIA slot.  They are not supported when using the CF adapters.  This knowledgebase article explains a little more about why this is the case.  I just wanted to warn you before you go out an buy an adapter.

So as Eric said above you might consider using the CF-6004, but this card only has analog inputs.  So if you also need analog outputs you could consider using a USB device.  USB would not be as compact but it would provide more functionality.

Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Have a good day,

Brian P.
Applications Engineer

[arvin_labrat]

Hey Brian

I was just looking at how inexpensive those USB DAQ devices are.  What would I need to interface my PDA  with the USB device.

I'm using a pocket PC 2003 HP h5550.

Thanks for your time

Eric

[wildcat_600]

Hello,

In order to use a USB DAQ device with you Pocket PC you will need to use the DAQmx Base driver.  In the readme file there is a lot of information that deals with PDA Support.  So I suggest looking here to see if the driver will meet your needs.

As far as using a USB DAQ device with your Pocket PC there are a few things to check.  First of all the PDA must have USB hosting capabilities as it must act as the master USB device.  Many PDA devices do not have this capability so be sure to check with your manufacturer first.  Second be aware that some PDAs turn off their USB ports to save power if they are not active.  So check with your manufacturer to see if your PDA will be able to be a USB host.

I hope this helps.

Brian P.
Applications Engineer