For large projects calling for hundreds of strain gauge transducer channels, analogue signal conditioning is both cost effective and robust. RDP Electronics, which has recently been responsible for large projects of this type, advises that analogue can be more resilient to electrical supply fluctuations and interference than digital alternatives. Analogue also offers the benefit of long cable runs without the need for further amplification.
In the rare circumstances where amplifier replacement becomes necessary, then thanks to the capability to enable standardised calibration from matched transducers, units can be swapped out with minimal effort. RDP offers a choice of signal conditioning amplifiers including its modular 600 multi-channel system. The Mod 600 is a fully featured, modularly designed instrument that offers flexibility and configurable analogue outputs.