James Carr TESSELLA SUPPORT SERVICES PLC

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Introduction
Instrumentation control is a large topic that covers many areas. Broadly speaking it is the
control and automation of devices through software, usually via an external standalone
computer. Traditionally, instruments have focused on doing a limited number of tasks,
such as measuring pre-defined parameters such as temperature, voltages etc., or as motor
controller platforms as used by robots and sample preparation equipment.


Background
Historically instruments were built using their own proprietary command protocols and
bespoke hardware such as micro-controllers and firmware. These instruments could not
easily fit into the integrated information systems demanded by modern industries. After
the introduction of commodity PC hardware in the 80’s and the progressive development
of a fast i/o bus architecture, scientists and engineers could connect their instruments
directly to their computer and take advantage of the benefits that transferring data directly
gave them.

Fast and accurate data transfer.

Ability to share data throughout the organisation.

Archive data and off line processing.

Data mining and analytic processing of historical data.




EXAMPLES OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS
Below are a few example Industrial Analysis applications for scientific instruments.
X-ray fluorescence
Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) is a technique of chemical analysis.
The interaction of X-rays with an object causes secondary (fluorescent) X-rays to be
generated. Each element present in the object produces X-rays with different energies.
These X-rays can be detected and displayed as a spectrum of intensity against energy:
the positions of the peaks identify which elements are present and the peak heights
identify how much of each element is present.
Scanning Electron microscopes
Electron Microscopes are scientific instruments that use a beam of highly energetic
electrons to examine objects on a very fine scale. This examination can yield
information on the topography, morphology, composition and crystal structure of the
sample.
Infra-red and near infra-red spectroscopy
Infra-red spectroscopy is used to examine the chemical structure of organic molecules.
The absorption and transmittance of the infra-red radiation through the substance of
interest can provide information on the chemical structure and bonds of the molecules
present.