Computer Based Shipboard Data Acquisition and Logging (Project CIGAL)

A new system was developed recently as a replacement for a data logging system, in use at our Institute for over 20 years. The new design stresses maximum flexibility and data integrity with the following features: (a) Use of a powerful microcomputer (HP9820) programmed in BASIC with some compiled routines using PASCAL. (b) Flexible I/O through standard HPIB and Rs232C interfaces. A 7 channel A-to-D interface to provide alarm monitors for the operation of air compressors and other equipment. (c) A microcomputer running a program called "ELOG" for manual entry of text and data. (d) A non -volatile bubble memory for interim data storage. (e) A flexible, yet constrained data format in day-files with descriptive headers. It is a stand-alone, self-contained system requiring no operator attention for the duration of a cruise.