Building a distributed measurement system with OXYGEN-NET
At DEWETRON, we provide a wide range of data acquisition systems, from compact and portable front-ends to large, comprehensive rackmount systems. While a single device may meet the needs of many applications, certain scenarios demand more robust solutions due to the high volume of input signals or significant distances between measurement locations. Examples of these scenarios include durability tests, wind tunnel tests, and vibration tests.
To address these challenges, we offer OXYGEN-NET, a powerful solution that synchronizes multiple devices, enabling seamless data acquisition and unified system management. In this blog post, we discuss OXYGEN-NET in more detail, highlight its benefits, and provide a quick guide on how to set it up.
What is OXYGEN-NET?
OXYGEN-NET is a feature for DEWETRON products, enabling the integration of multiple DEWEx-systems on the same Ethernet network into a unified, high-channel-count measurement system. An OXYGEN-NET system consists of at least one Slave device and one Master device, but cn also include multiple Slave devices and multiple Master devices. All devices within the network are fully synchronized, enabling both individual management and centralized control via any Master device.
Fig. 1: Example schematics of OXYGEN-NET systems
The schematic shown in Fig.1 displays an example of an OXYGEN-NET system. This specific case shows three DEWEx devices connected to an external Master PC, whereas the leftmost device acts as the synchronization Master.
Fig.1 displays example schematics of OXYGEN-NET systems. The left panel shows a Single-Master system with three DEWEx devices connected to one external Master PC. The right panel shows a Multi-Master system with three DEWEx devices connected to two external Master PCs. In both cases, the leftmost DEWEx device acts as the synchronization Master.
OXYGEN-NET is an optional feature and therefore not included in the OXYGEN standard license.
What are the benefits of OXYGEN-NET systems?
OXYGEN-NET systems offer numerous advantages across various industries. Below are the key benefits that make such systems a great choice for complex measurement applications:
“Unlimited” number of measurement channels
With OXYGEN-NET, you can add as many devices as needed, scaling your system to hundreds, thousands, or even more measurement channels. This capability is essential for applications like wind tunnel testing, where countless signals need to be acquired synchronously.
Widely distributed measurement systems
OXYGEN-NET enables the distribution of individual devices over large areas while maintaining synchronized data acquisition. This is possible through various synchronization options , such as PTP sync signals, which support device distances of up to 1,000 meters using a PTP Ethernet switch. Or use GNSS signals to synchronize devices across global locations.
Flexible setup configuration
Managing complex measurement systems is simplified with OXYGEN-NET. All nodes can be configured and controlled directly from any Master device, facilitating setup processes. Additionally, each unit can still be configured and operated individually at its location if needed, providing flexibility in operation.
Efficient data transfer and storage
OXYGEN-NET allows for flexible data transfer and storage. Choose to transfer specific channels only to save storage capacity and computation power. Or transfer all raw data to the Master device creating a redundant system, storing data on both the acquisition device and the Master for increased security.
How to set up an OXYGEN-NET system?
In the following, we explain how you can set up an OXYGEN-NET system quickly and easily in 4 steps with OXYGEN:
1. Physically connect all devices to the same ethernet network.
2. Enable OXYGEN-NET on all devices within the tab NET-Settings.
Fig. 2: OXYGEN-NET settings
3. Claim all desired devices within the tab NET-Nodes.
Fig. 3: Claiming nodes
4. Synchronize all units
Fig. 4: Synchronization of OXYGEN-NET systems
Need help?
If you encounter any issues, refer to our OXYGEN Technical Reference document for detailed troubleshooting tips. This document also covers various system topologies and additional technical insights. For more comprehensive information on OXYGEN-NET, including advanced configurations and use cases, check out our OXYGEN-NET Whitepaper.
If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our Support Team directly—we’re here to help!
