1-1
Chapter 1
Introducing the USB-TC
Overview: USB-TC features
This user's guide contains all of the information you need to connect the USB-TC to your computer and
to the signals you want to measure. The USB-TC is part of the Measurement Advantage™ brand of USB-
based data acquisition products.
The USB-TC is a USB 2.0 full-speed, thermocouple input module that is supported under Microsoft
®
Windows
®
98 (2
nd
edition), Windows ME, Windows 2000, and Windows XP. The USB-TC is fully
compatible with both USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 ports.
The USB-TC provides eight differential thermocouple input channels. Eight independent, TTL-
compatible digital I/O channels are provided to monitor TTL-level inputs, communicate with external
devices, and to generate alarms. The digital I/O channels are software programmable for input or output.
With the USB-TC, you can take measurements from type J, K, R, S, T, N, E, and B thermocouples.
The USB-TC provides two integrated cold junction compensation (CJC) sensors for thermocouple
measurements.
An open thermocouple detection feature lets you detect a broken thermocouple. An on-board
microprocessor automatically linearizes the measurement data.
The USB-TC is a standalone plug-and-play module which draws power from the USB cable. No external
power supply is required. All configurable options are software programmable.
The USB-TC is fully software calibrated.
