System hardware was already built and specified for running validation tests on eight separate CAN-enabled NOx sensors. DMC met with the client software team to gather system information and requirements. After reviewing all pieces and defining an architecture that fit their application and experience level, further development tasks were divided up amongst both internal and external groups.

DMC seamlessly integrated existing code into a stable and robust PID temperature controller for gas cartridge heaters and created a separate, resettable DAQ engine to handle all digital and analog I/O. After introducing client staff to a queue-based State Machine, DMC modified and tested TCP/IP project libraries into a message handler to act as a liaison between PXI and PC. High-speed CAN communications are handled and parsed separately, ensuring synchronization and data integrity. Test Logic components are launched anew during the start of each test and run linear sequences setting control valves and gas flowrates. Gas composition and CAN data collected during the test are pushed to the PC application for display and logging. Once integration and full debug were complete, stand-alone executables were delivered.

DMC left the client development staff with both a professional application and the knowledge to maintain and reuse source code internally for future projects.

Learn more about DMC's test and measurement automation services.