New Universal Computer Interface For Spectroradiometers Light, Energy Measurements
Information Display · 1984
Photo Research, Burbank, CA, recently introduced a Universal Computer Interface (UCI-80) that allows operation of the Pritchard® PR-19808/SC SpectraRadiometerN System with a wide range of computers.It also allows the Pritchard to be controlled remotely for automatic test applications, according to SID Member Ken Miller, vice president and product line manager.Instructions to the spectroradiometer can be sent through the UCI-80 from any computer with a minimum of 16K RAM, a full ASCII keyboard and either an RS-232C or an IEEE-488 1/0 port.Previously, only Hewlett-Packard computers supported the Photo Research PR-19808 SpectraRadiometers.But if you choose not to write your own software, you can still use the UCI-80 with the proven, complete, Hewlett-Packard computer software ensemble -and your measurement time is significantly reduced.The output/input data and command transfer is done by the internal microprocessor in the universal computer interface over either the I EEE-488 or RS-232C interface.The port selection is user-selectable via Dl P switches on the interface.The user can tailor the software for the system to meet specific needs or tasks required.According to Miller, a simple program can be written to control test measurement parameters, even from a remote terminal.The UCI-80 controls the actual data acquisition and reduction.Sample operating programs are available from Photo Research, including subroutine explanations.In addition, Photo Research software specialists are available to answer questions.The new interface can be installed on most existing PR-19808 systems in the field.All new systems can be ordered with or without the interface.Documentation for the UCI-80 includes a complete list of all commands available to run the system and access the collected data.Any preprogrammed data sets, such as correction factors, CIE values, color temperature, standard source (i.e.D-6500 and illuminant A, 8, C) data, etc., can also be accessed.