Data Dolphin Tech Note

DD0106

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Major Revisions to the DDSE Model in Replacement Model

What happened to the DDSE?
We have added additional signals and features to our Data Dolphin Single Ended (DDSE) model, making
it more adaptable and easier to work with. The name of our new replacement model is the Data Dolphin
128 (DD-128). This new model still retains all the features that were in the DDSE, such as eight high-
resolution input channels (24 bit), over 1 Mb of storage and a large variety of communication options. The
new DD-128 also includes new circuitry for its voltage excitation outputs resulting with more power options
for attached measurement devices. Also, some redundant, unused outputs were removed, allowing the
more frequently used outputs to be duplicated and relocated to more accessible connection points on the
Data Dolphin case.
Exactly what are the differences between the models?
A new regulated output, VEX. Switched (Voltage External Switched), has been added on the new DD-128
model. This output provides a switched 5.0 Volts at up to 700 milliamps when greater than 6V is applied
to the Power In terminal. This output is a low noise voltage source for bridge excitation. Should a Data
Dolphin’s input voltage drop below 6.0V, or if the Data Dolphin is only powered by an internal battery pack,
VEX. Switched will then simply track the external voltage source or internal battery pack’s voltage. All
outputs (VEX. Switched, 2.5V reference, and Switched) on the DD-128 function like those of the DDSE in
that they are enabled just prior to the Data Dolphin taking a reading on its inputs. The “Sensor
Stabilization Time” setting in the Data Dolphin software controls the time that the outputs are energized
before a reading is taken.
Less used connections, such as Trigger Out 1 & 2 and Common Ground were also removed and replaced
with more 2.5V reference connections.
The core was also changed to allow for two high-resolution input sections. This makes way for a future
model of the Data Dolphin with double the number of precision inputs (DD-228).

Figure 1: Terminals of the new DD-128 datalogger

Optimum Instruments Inc.

#201, 3124 Parsons Road, Edmonton, AB, Canada, T6N 1L6 1 of 3
For more info call (780) 450-0591 or FAX (780) 440-2515
Email: optimum@optinst.com 1000IE -06/01
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What are the functions of the inputs and outputs of the DD-128?
The table below describes the function of each the input and output connections of the new DD-128:

Terminal Label I/O Description & Purpose

Power In Input One of the two methods to supply power to the Data Dolphin. This terminal
can be used to power the dolphin instead of the DC Adapter input. It is directly
connected to the DC adapter to allow a 12V rechargeable battery connected
to this input to be continuously charged from the adapter. This means that
either this input or the DC adapter input should be used. DO NOT USE BOTH
unless you know that the adapter is the correct charger for the battery that you
have connected to “Power In”. This input is fused with a 2 Amp fuse that
resets automatically. 12 volts at 1 amp makes a good “Power In” source when
the DD-128 has communication modules installed.
Switched Output The voltage from the “Power In” or “+12V Adapter” is switched to this output
for an adjustable amount of time just prior to taking a reading. The time is
adjusted by changing the “Sensor Stabilization Time” in the setup window of
the Data Dolphin software. This output is capable of delivering a maximum of
2.0 Amps since the fuse that is on the “Power In” or “+12V Adapter” is a 2
Amp fuse.
Ground - Ground for Data Dolphin’s “Power In” input. This ground is quite noisy
electrically since the Data Dolphin’s communication devices ground to this
point. It is recommended that you do NOT use this connection terminal to
ground your sensors.
VEx. Switched Output This highly stable output provides a steady 5.0 Volts at up to 700 milliamps
when greater than 6V is applied to the “Power In” terminal. The current that is
available will be less than 700 milliamps if the “Power In” or “+12V Adapter”
provides less current. When the voltage applied to “Power In” or “+12V
Adapter” is less than 6V, this output will fall below 5.00 Volts. This output can
be used when only an internal battery pack is installed, but the voltage out will
NOT be 5.00 volts. Instead, it will be the same voltage as that of the internal
battery pack. A voltage will appear on this output for an adjustable amount of
time just prior to taking a reading. The time is adjusted by changing the
“Sensor Stabilization Time” setting in the setup window of the Data Dolphin
Software. A unique feature of this output is that it has a high output current to
drive sensors; the 2.5-volt reference outputs do not have this high output
current. Multiple sensors, such as 125-ohm strain gauges, can be powered
simultaneously from Vex switched.
+2.500V Reference Output A highly stable output reference voltage used as a measurement reference. A
2.500-volt signal is switched to this output for an adjustable amount of time
just prior to taking a reading. This time is adjusted by changing the “Sensor
Stabilization Time” setting in the setup window of the Data Dolphin software.
The maximum current available at this output is small since this is a reference,
NOT a power source. A maximum of 20 milliamps of unfused current is
available. This 2.5 volt reference output is perfect for such sensors as
thermistors, potentiometers, high input resistance load cells, etc.
+12V Adapter Input Power input for standard 120VAC to 12VDC adapters. Use a center positive
input only. See “Power In” for more information, as the two inputs are
internally connected.
Ground (For - The recommended ground reference for the Alg/Pulse inputs. For more
Alg/Pulse inputs) information please see the section “A bit about grounding” in Tech Note
“DD0105 - Connecting a 4-20mA Sensor”

2 of 3 Major Revisions to the DDSE Model in Replacement Model

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Terminal I/O Description & Purpose

Label
RS232 Both Used for direct (local) serial port communications with a laptop or desktop
Communications computer operating the Data Dolphin Software. The default baud rate is 19200,
Port but the baud rate can be negotiated to multiple speeds from 4800 up to 115200
baud.

Pin 1 CD Not used.

Pin 2 OUT Data Output from Data Dolphin.
Pin 3 IN Data Input to Data Dolphin.
Pin 4 DTR When “ON” the RS232 port is the active communication source.
When “OFF” the internal communications device (A spread
spectrum radio, for example) is the currently active
communication source.
Pin 5 COM Communications ground.
Pin 6 Not used.
Pin 7 RTS Used to wake the Data Dolphin for communications (Request to
Send).

Pin 8 Not used.

Pin 9 Not used.
Antenna Both An antenna connection for a SS-910 spread spectrum radio, DD-CDPD modem
Connector module, etc. If a landline Telephone modem module is installed, this will be a
(Optional) cable terminated with a male RJ-11 telephone plug.

In + Alg 11-18 Input The Data Dolphin’s high precision analog inputs. These voltage inputs have 24-
bit analog to digital resolution. The input range is from -2.1 volts to + 5 volts.
The DD-128 is typically set to use the 2.50000 Volt range since this range can
read small microvolt signals, as well as large 2.5 volt signals. This saves the
user from having to worry about sensor and input ranges. Filtering circuitry is
provided on each input to eliminate any high frequency interference which could
lead to inaccurate readings. High voltage protection from lightning and static
electricity is also provided on each input.
Analog Common - The recommended ground reference for the precision inputs. For more
Ground information please see the section “A bit about grounding” in Tech Note “DD0105
- Connecting a 4-20mA Sensor”
GND - An accurate ground for use with the analog (10 bit) inputs. Each GND terminal is
intended to act as the ground for its adjacent analog input.

Alg/Pulse 1-4 Input The Data Dolphin’s standard analog or pulse inputs. These inputs can be used
as an analog input capable of 10-bit resolution OR as digital inputs that count or
mark. The input impedance of these inputs is 1 MΩ. In digital mode there is an
internal pull up resistor allowing for direct connection to single pole switches
(example: rain gauges).

Optimum Instruments Inc. makes no warranty for the use of its products, other than those expressly contained in the Company’s standard
warranty. The Company assumes no responsibility for any errors which may appear in this document, reserves the right to change devices or
specifications detailed herein at any time without notice, and does not make any commitment to update the information contained herein. No
licenses to patents or other intellectual property of Optimum are granted by the Company in connection with the sale of Optimum products,
expressly or by implication. Optimum’s products are not authorized for use as critical components in life support devices or systems.

Major Revisions to the DDSE Model in Replacement Model 3 of 3