XY PLOTTER PC Based XY Plotter & Data Logging Solution

Overview

Our PC-based digital XY Plotter software suite enables you to turn your PC or laptop into a fully functioning XY plotter, time-base chart recorder, and automated limit or mask tester.

The ADS PC-base XY Plotter solution consists of two key elements. These include the software which runs on any Microsoft Windows (Windows 7 and above) based computer and industry standard NI based hardware.

 

Why not save yourself money and obtain more accurate and reliable measurements by replacing your old plotter with all of its ongoing consumable and support costs with a new reliable and feature packed alternative.

Increase Efficiency

Faster setup, real-time plotting, & streamlined workflows

Reduce Costs

Eliminate consumables & minimize maintenance of legacy equipment

Improve Accuracy

High-resolution data capture with automated limit & mask testing

Enhance Traceability

Digitally record, store & export test data for full auditability

Key Features

  • Real-time plotting of X vs Y, X vs 2Y & X vs 3Y measurements.
  • Unlimited configurable measurement channels with dynamic X/Y assignment, scaling, offsets, and engineering units.
  • Fixturing-level sensor scaling that keeps test specifications portable and simplifies recalibration.
  • Guided test setup with four-step specification editor and built-in validation.
  • User-defined test groups organized by part number, product line, or program for faster test selection.
  • Modern interface featuring live channel reading, panel lock, and one-click clear, print, and reset functions.
  • Comprehensive automated analysis including limit, null, hysteresis, gain, linearity, and stability with individual pass/fail results.
  • Manual or automated testing with adjustable data acquisition rates for high-speed measurements.
  • Comprehensive reporting with test metadata, automatic date/time logging, comments, and multi-trace graphing.
  • Flexible output options including PDF and image export, data saving, and printing to local or network printers.

How it Works

The standard off-the-shelf XY Plotter product closely mimics a traditional XY plotter, featuring pen-up/pen-down controls and adjustable X and Y axis scaling. However, unlike conventional plotters, it eliminates the need for consumables since all data is automatically logged to file. Additionally, each session generates a PDF copy of the plot along with key details such as the operator name, work order number, and product serial number, thereby enhancing traceability and efficiency.

 

Who We Can Help

The ADS XY Plotter is ideal for organizations that rely on precision testing, data visualization, and performance validation:

 

  • Hydraulic Valve & Actuator Test
  • Aerospace Applications
  • RF Component Testing
  • Life Cycle Testing
  • Pressure Logging
  • Electronic Servo Test
  • Medical Device Testing
  • Microwave Component Testing
  • Temperature Logging
  • Environmental Sensor Logging

Software

Benefits

  • No need to replace expensive, non serviceable parts
  • No expensive on-going consumable costs
  • XY Plotting, Time-base Chart Recording and customizable Automated Test Functions
  • Reliable life cycle testing from hours to weeks

Flexible Configuration

  • Define unlimited named measurement channels with individual devices, scaling, offsets, and engineering units.
  • Assign any configured channel to the X or Y axis without modifying the test.
  • Configure sensor scaling once at the fixture level. No need to update individual test specifications when sensors are recalibrated.
  • Organize test specifications into user-defined groups by part number, product line, program or application for faster operator selection.

Automated Testing & Analysis

  • Built-in automated pass/fail testing against configurable limits.
  • Each analysis reports its own measurement value and independent pass/fail result.
  • Easy creation of limit masks with visual pass/fail indication.
  • Support multiple analysis per test, including: Limit, Null, Hysteresis, Gain, Linearity, and Stability.
  • Customizable test information stored alongside scaled measurement data.

On-screen Analysis

  • Moveable cursors to highlight calculation regions.
  • On-screen real-time calculations.
  • Live scaled measurement display.
  • Dynamic X/Y channel selection during testing.

Typical Applications

  • Hysteresis Testing
  • Stability Testing
  • Frequency Response Testing
  • Flow and Pressure Testing
  • Repetition/Cycle Testing
  • Linearity Testing
  • Gain Verification
  • Mechanical Actuation Testing
  • Flow and Travel Testing

Hardware

Benefits

  • Medium Cost
  • Ideal for rugged environments use
  • Plug and Play (change modules on the fly to provide different voltage level inputs if required)
  • USB or WiFi options
  • BNC inputs for easy connectivity
  • NIST traceable calibration
  • Use with NI cDAQ 9171 USB carrier for USB connectivity
  • WiFi carrier available as an option
  • +/-60 Version Available

NI cDAQ 9171 Module, NI cDAQ 9215, BNC DAQ Module

Specifications

  • Number of Channels: 4 Differentials
  • ADC Resolution: 16-bit maximum
  • Sample Rate (Aggregate): 50 kS/s
  • Converter Type: Successive Approximation
  • Input Voltage: +/- 10 Volts
  • Warranty: 12 month NI hardware warranty
  • Calibration: Calibration of the NI hardware is for one year as per NI’s standard calibration policy. The hardware can be calibrated for longer periods or to NIST standard for an additional fee. 

Modernize your Testing. Eliminate Downtime. Gain Better Insight Starting Now.