Smart analog sensors

The Plug & play sensors program, a collaborative effort between NI and leading sensor vendors is aimed at gaining widespread adoption of IEEE P1451.4.

With this proposed sensors standard, systems integrators and developers can automatically configure measurement and automation systems for analog sensors, making data acquisition systems easier to set up, configure, and maintain.

The program is an initiative to create and promote an open standard for intelligent and easy-to-use analog sensors that users can integrate into their measurement systems as easily as connecting a mouse to a computer.

IEEE P1451.4 proposes that sensors include an embedded, low-cost memory chip containing standardised transducer electronic data sheets (TEDS) that store important sensor information and parameters for self-identification and self-descriptions. TEDS eliminate the need to manually input this data when configuring a system.

As part of the program, NI and sensor vendors also are exploring how to expand plug and play capability to legacy sensors. Through a proposed online database of sensor vendors' model data on ni.com, users will be able to download TEDS binary files, or Virtual TEDS, to their systems to instantly give plug and play capabilities to legacy sensors. With Virtual TEDS, users can take advantage of new sensor technology with their traditional measurement hardware, providing a smooth transition to the next generation of measurement and automation systems.