Wineman Technology Announces Upgrades to RAPID Controller

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- NIWeek – Wineman Technology, Inc. today announced at NIWeek upgrades to RAPID, an integrated, multi-loop control and data acquisition system for test cell applications that demand quick development and low-cost deployment. RAPID provides engineers with high-speed, 4 kHz, digital PID loop closure with spare analog and digital inputs to provide extensive data-logging capabilities.

The 19-inch, 3U, rack-mount controller provides real-time control and data acquisition for dynamometers and servo-hydraulics test cell applications, with the flexibility for a wide assortment of custom test applications. It is ideal for motion control and data acquisition applications, including dynamometers, hydraulics test systems, and other test cell applications including materials load frame testing, small engine test cells, tire lab testing, engine and transmission remanufacturing, and contract lab testing.

Released last summer, RAPID helps customers to stay ahead of market needs to deliver the best end-products possible. The recent RAPID upgrades include:

• Watch Dog Timer - Produces a 2 kHz square wave output, allowing addition of external hardware for monitoring any laps in the hardware functionality or communication with the host computer
• Configuration of Encoder/Frequency - Allows the four frequency inputs to be configured to accept a combination of frequency and encoder signals
• Data Acquisition Decimation - Allows up to third order polynomial scaling on the first 8 analog inputs
• Higher Order Scaling on Analog Inputs - Allows up to third order polynomial scaling on the first 8 analog inputs
• User Variable Functions - Allows RAPID's standard eight user variables to be used as control mode set-points, feedbacks, and outputs

"The RAPID controller is a real-time, digital controller that uses the power of an FPGA for maximum determinism and performance," said Jim Wineman, CEO of Wineman Technology. "We are constantly looking for ways to increase the flexibility, performance, and integration of RAPID so that our clients continue to have a competitive advantage."

The controller offers easy-to-use, out-of-the-box functionality with quick installation, simple configuration, and user-friendly connectivity and wiring, while providing deterministic performance and reliability with the power of an FPGA. The RAPID controllers replace legacy controllers for many engineers, or are used to add functionality to existing systems.

RAPID includes a variety of preconfigured I/O with screw terminal connectors for channel connectivity, and externally accessible switches for configuring voltage or current inputs. The analog I/O channels are configurable between +/- 10 V or 4-20 mA inputs through externally accessible switches. Ribbon cable connectors provide expansion options for signal conditioning backplanes, digital I/O, TTL level I/O, and other connectivity products. The RAPID controller also includes an emergency stop button, and connectivity to safety circuits.

For more information on the RAPID controller, readers can visit http://www.winemantech.com/products/5/rapid-test-cell-controller.html.

About Wineman Technology

Established in 1991, Wineman Technology, Inc. specializes in providing the right technical solution for solving a wide range of test applications, including dynamometer systems, servo-hydraulics systems, real-time controllers and data acquisition, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test systems, and custom testing machines. Unlike other companies where test plays a partial role, Wineman Technology's singular focus is the design and development of test equipment for advanced research and development, functional test labs, and manufacturing production. Wineman Technology's focus on test systems with a diverse range of capabilities enables them to deliver superior system reliability, serviceability, and support.

Media Contact: Laura Rogers, [email protected]
Customer Contact: Darryn La Zar, Wineman Technology, [email protected]

SOURCE Wineman Technology, Inc.