bmcm AMS84-USB User manual

AMS84-USB
5B Amplifier Measurement System (USB)
All-In-One Measurement System.
Compact. DAQ via USB.
The AMS84-USB, a complete solution:
amplifier technology and data acquisition. A
high-quality USB data acquisition system is
already integrated. Available in a robust
aluminum housing as a mobile tabletop unit
with skid-proof, tip-up feet.
Modular Concept.
Equip Individually. Be Flexible.
The AMS device is equipped with cassettes,
on which the required 5B measuring amplifiers
are mounted. The variety of available 5B
modules allows for the optimum adaptation of
the AMS84-USB to any special measuring
task.
Choose Connector.
Mount 5B Amplifier. Done.
The available plug-in cassettes have different
connectors on the front panel. Depending on
the sensor or signal to be connected, the
suitable cassette can be chosen. Now the 5B
module only has to be fixed on the cassette
and be integrated in the AMS system.
Clearly Safe.
The galvanic isolation provided by the 5B
modules guarantees interference-free
operation and protects the DAQ system and
the PC against high potentials.
Analog. 16 Inputs. 2 Outputs.
Signals are connected at 8 amplifier inputs
with 16 bit resolution and 250kHz total
sampling rate. Additional 8 analog inputs and
2 analog outputs are available directly and
without amplification at a D-Sub 37 female.
Digital. 4 Inputs. 4 Outputs.
1 Counter.
Digital states are recorded or set at four digital
inputs and outputs each. For pulse
measurements, an additional isolated counter
input is provided.
Plug & Play with USB.
The connection to the PC is realized via USB.
The AMS84-USB provides all typical USB
features (e.g. Plug&Play, Hot-Plug).
Optimal for Windows.
The drivers and programming interface is
optimized for 64Bit under Windows® 10/11.
All software for installation and programming
of the AMS84-USB is included free of charge.
Functional diagram

AMS84-USB
Seite 2
1Start-up procedure
All available software and documentation for the AMS84-USB are located on
http://www.bmcm.de/ams84-usb-en in the tab Downloads.
1. Step: Installation device driver
Install the latest driver package in order to use the USB measurement device. You
will find the package on www.bmcm.de/ams84-usb-en in the tab Downloads in the
category BMCM –Drivers.
2a. Step: Measuring with NextView
To be able to use your measurement system with NextView, you just need to
download and install the latest version of NextView on http://www.nextview.de/go-
en. In case you did not buy NextView, request a free of charge trial version when first
starting NextView. Find more information about NextView and its installation on
www.nextview.de.
2b. Step: Measuring with API
In case you want to use the measurement device without NextView, you need to download
and install the free of charge programming interface LIBAD4. You can find this on
www.bmcm.de/ams84-usb-en in the tab Downloads in the category LIBAD –Programming
Interface (API), too. Find more information on www.bmcm.de/libad-en.

AMS84-USB
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2Installation
2.1 Assembly
a) Equip the AMS84-USB with the plug-in cassettes (see chapter 6.2) carrying the required 5B
modules.
b) Carefully push the cassette along the guide bars of the relevant slot until the 7-way pin
connector of the cassette and the pins of the 5B module are plugged into the corresponding
connectors on the AMS backplane.
c) For a tight installation, fix the front panel at both ends with screws to the housing. Bridge
unneeded slots by a blank panel ( AMS-K-BLANK ) to protect the device against outside
influences.
d) If the AMS84-LAN16f is mounted to a 19'' rack system, the relevant input wiring should be
prepared first before attaching the device to the rack system with screws.
2.2 Software Installation and Start-up Procedure
a) Install the bmcm driver package (see chapter 1) on the PC/notebook before connecting the
AMS84-USB to a free USB interface.
b) Connect an external power unit to the 3-pin DIN coupling for 9-40V power supply (use a supply
cable with a cross sectional area >1mm2) and turn on the AMS84-USB by pressing the switch
to "1" (ON) (see chapter 3.1 and 3.3).
c) Start the Plug&Play installation (see chapter 1). If necessary, further software components can
be installed now, as described in chapter 1.
d) Sixteen analog input signals can be connected at the specific connector of the respective AMS
cassette panel. The other analog channels as well as digital lines are available directly and
without amplification at a 37-pin and a 15-pin D-Sub female connector (see chapter 3.5.2 and
3.6).
•To change the cassettes, the power of the AMS device must be turned off!
•If the AMS system is operated standalone, additional grounding to enhance shielding is
recommended but not mandatory.

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3Connections / Assignments
All available connectors and
operating elements of the
AMS84-USB are accessible on
the right-hand side of the
device front and back.
3.1 Switch
The supply of the 5B modules
of the AMS84-USB is turned
on (press "1") and off (press
"0") with the switch at the front.
This is indicated by the green
LED "ON AMPL".
The DAQ unit is supplied by
the PC.
3.2 LEDs
The two LEDs on the front of the device indicate various states. As already mentioned, the LED "ON
AMPL." is on, when the 5B modules are powered with 9-40 DC IN (switch on "1" position).
The other LEDs show the supply of the USB data acquisition unit and of the integrated measuring
module by the PC (5V) or signalize the transmission of commands to the PC.
3.3 Power Supply "DC In"
The installed 5B modules are supplied with power (9..40V) via the 3-pin DIN plug with the following
assignment. A power supply unit ZU-PW40W (24V, 1.67A DC) is optionally available.
Pin
Assignment
1
n. c.
2
ground (GND)
3
9-40V DC
3.4 USB
The standard USB connector (type B) serves for the PC connection of the data acquisition
unit integrated in the AMS84-USB. Power supply is also provided via the USB interface.

AMS84-USB
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3.5 Analog Channels
3.5.1 Measuring Amplifier Inputs
Sixteen analog signals can be connected to the amplifier inputs available at the respective connectors
of the cassette panels. Their assignment is illustrated in the data sheet of the AMS-K cassettes (see
chapter 6.2).
Depending on the application, the shield of the analog input cables can be applied to ground or 0V.
Be sure to connect at one end of the cable only. Run the signal ground separately if possible. Lay
input cable separately if possible.
Measurements can be effected on various potentials. The potential deviations, however, should not
exceed 60V DC (according to VDE Association of German Electrical Engineers).
3.5.2 Analog Outputs
The 37-pin D-Sub female connector at the back of the device
is designed for the connection of the analog outputs 1+2. The
output range is 10V, the resolution is 16 bit.
The following table and figure show the pin assignment.
Pin
Assignment
1..17
n. c.
18
AOut 1
19
AOut 2
20..35
n. c.
36..37
AGND

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3.6 Digital Channels
The AMS84-USB features 4 digital inputs and outputs each ( low : 0V..0.7V; high : 3V..5V) and an
isolated counter input. The 5V auxiliary voltage at pin 6 can be used e.g. for sensor supply.
All connections are led to the 15-pin D-Sub female connector on the back of the device. The following
table and figure show the pin assignment.
With the option AMS-DIG4 (see chapter Fehler! Verweisquelle konnte nicht gefunden werden.), 4
inputs and outputs each can be used as galvanically isolated optocoupler inputs and relay outputs
available at the back of the device.
•The digital lines are protected by 1kresistors. If the input voltage is not within the permitted
voltage range of 0..5V, the device may be damaged.
•The digital inputs and outputs are not galvanically isolated except for the counter.
•The digital ground (DGND) is connected with the PC ground.
4Interfacing Examples for the Digital Lines of the AMS84-USB
The following basic connection examples demonstrate the use of the digital inputs and outputs and
the connection of a counter to the AMS84-USB. The pin assignment of the 15-pin D-Sub female
connector is described in chapter 3.6.
4.1 Interfacing Examples for the Counter Input
The galvanically isolated 16-bit counter is
connected at pin 7 and 14.
At maximum performance (216-1), the counter is
reset and starts from zero again.
Pin
Assignment
Pin
Assignment
1
DOut 1
5, 13
DGND
9
DOut 2
6
VUSB (4-5V; max. 20mA)
2
DOut 3
7
counter input low
10
DOut 4
14
counter input high
3
DIn 1
8, 15
n. c.
11
DIn 2
4
DIn 3
12
DIn 4

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4.2 Interfacing Examples for Digital Inputs
The 3.9kpull-down resistor sets the input to low if no voltage is applied there.
4.2.1 Connecting an Optocoupler
Optocouplers provide optimum protection at
each input line. With them, it is possible to
connect higher voltages and to protect the
hardware from being destroyed.
In this regard, please also see application
examples of the optocoupler you use.
Optocoupler cards featuring 8 inputs are
available at bmcm.
4.2.2 Connecting a Push-Button / Switch
Please make sure to use a push-button with
debounce protection, because otherwise
several pulses might be recorded.
The 3.9kpull-down resistor is absolutely
necessary to create a defined low signal!
4.2.3 Connecting a Voltage Divider
If connecting a DC voltage higher than 5V, a
voltage divider must be used so that 5V at the
maximum are applied at the device input.
Exceeding the 5V input voltage might cause
damages to the device.
The relation between the two resistors to be
used is calculated with the following formula:
U/U1= (R1+R2)/R1
Input voltages less than 5V are also sufficient
( high 3V).

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4.3 Interfacing Examples for Digital Outputs
Serial resistors in the output lines limit the current and protect the hardware from being destroyed.
4.3.1 Connecting an LED
Only so-called low-current LEDs can be
used, because they already work with 1mA
current.
Please also observe the total current listed
in the technical data (see chapter 8).
4.3.2 Connecting a Relay
A connected relay is ideal to switch higher
currents. Since the field coil of the relay
requires a higher current than provided by
the measurement system at one line, a
transistor is connected ahead.
Relay cards featuring 8 outputs are
available at bmcm.
4.3.3 Connecting a Lamp
A transistor can be used to switch higher
loads. The selected transistor must comply
with the maximum switchable current.
The figure on the right shows an application
with a maximum current of 100mA.

AMS84-USB
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5AMS Backplane
The AMS-backplane provides 8 slots for 5B modules and the AMS-K plug-in cassettes (see chapter
6.2) carrying the 5B modules. In the AMS84-USB, two backplanes are integrated.
5.1 Ground-to-Ground Resistance
Ideally, the output ground is not electrically connected with the power supply ground. If, however, a
connection to ground is necessary (e.g. to use the output switch in the 5B module), the 2-pin jumper
(see fig. above) must be closed.
In the case of electrically connected systems (e.g. PC), this jumper represents a high-resistance
bridge (1k) and may generate a hum loop!
5.2 Module Pin Assignment
The pin assignment on the right shows the top view of the module
backplane (see chapter 5).
The pin assignment corresponds to the 5B modules of Analog
Devices®, BURR BROWN®etc. However, an additional 0EX pin has
been introduced, which is particularly suitable for ungrounded
shielding. This is a specific assignment of BMC Messsysteme
GmbH. This pin is not connected in modules of other
manufacturers.
5.3 Fuse
The fusing of the AMS backplane is effected on the backplane (see chapter 5) with one reversible
semi-conductor fuse. In case of overload, it turns off. To make the fuse work effectively again, first
remove the cause for overload before disconnecting the power supply of the AMS84-USB.
5.4 Connection for AMS Cassettes
The cassettes are connected to the AMS backplane via 7-way pin connectors (see
chapter 5), leading the input signals connected at the cassette panel to the
backplane. The assignment of the 7-way female connector on the board is illustrated
in the figure on the right-hand side.

AMS84-USB
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6Supplementary Products for the AMS84-USB
6.1 5B Modules (MA Line)
The 5B measuring amplifiers from bmcm allow for the professional
signal adjustment to a data acquisition system.
The amplifier output is 5V or 0..5V. Most of the modules are
electrically isolating and provide sensor supply.
The following 5B modules from bmcm are available:
Product
Description
MA-UNI
universal amplifier with galvanic isolation for U, I, R, thermocouple, strain gauge, LVDT
MA-UI
multi-range amplifier with galvanic isolation for U, I
MA-U
voltage measuring amplifier with galvanic isolation, 50kHz bandwidth
MA-P09/12/15
power supply modules ±9V/ ±12V/±15V
6.2 Plug-in Cassettes (AMS-K Line)
The amplifier system can individually be equipped with 16 plug-in
cassettes.
Each cassette is equipped with the relevant 5B module and
suitable input connector.
The suitable input connector on the front panel guarantees for the
relevant connection to be available when exchanging the cassette.
The following cassettes are available:
Product
Description
AMS-K-BIN5
cassette with panel and 5-pin Binder female connector (712 series)
AMS-K-BLANK
blank panel
AMS-K-BNC
cassette with front panel and BNC female connector
AMS-K-CO5
cassette with front panel and 5-pin terminal connector
AMS-K-THK
cassette with front panel and thermocouple socket (type K)
6.3 AMS-HANDLE2, AMS-FOOT
For mobile use, the AMS84-USB16f can be equipped with two
stable metal handles at the housing frame ( AMS-HANDLE2 ).
If the AMS84-USB16f is not installed in a 19'' rack, a set of tip-up
feet ( AMS-FOOT ) can optionally be ordered.
6.4 AMS-DIG4
With the add-on option AMS-DIG4 , four digital channels each are
accessible as optocoupler inputs and outputs at the back of the
amplifier measurement system. They are not available at the 15-pin
D-Sub female of the device then anymore (see chapter 3.6).
For further information see the data sheet for the option AMS-DIG4 .

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7Important Notes for Using the AMS84-USB
•The device is only suitable for extra-low voltages - please observe the relevant regulations! Only use the
device with housing closed. ESD voltages at open lines may cause malfunction.
•Only use an electrical isolated power supply unit (with CE).
•For cleaning only use non-solvent detergents. The product is designed to be maintenance-free.
•For calibration purposes the device must be returned to BMC Messsysteme GmbH.
•For reasons relating to CE use shielded cables. Connect the shield to ground at one end only. Close open
inputs if possible. ESD voltages on lines may cause malfunction during operation.
•When mounting the cassettes, a connection between power supply ground and chassis of the device is
made via the module screw.
•The device ground and the chassis are electrically connected to the chassis of the PC, which is usually also
connected to ground. Be sure to avoid ground loops since they will cause measuring errors!
•The Gain is adjusted to even values. Therefore, only 64000 values (for 16 bit) of the full range of the converter
are used. As a result, the measuring ranges are slightly larger (e.g. 5.12V) than the indicated measuring
ranges so that overranges can be recognized.
•The device must not be used for safety-relevant tasks. With the use of the product, the customer becomes
manufacturer by law and is therefore fully responsible for the proper installation and use of the product. In
the case of improper use and/or unauthorized interference, our warranty ceases and any warranty claim is
excluded.
Do not dispose of the product in the domestic waste or at any waste collection places. It has to be either
duly disposed according to the WEEE directive or can be returned to bmcm at your own expense.

AMS84-USB
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8Technical Data (typical at 20°C, after 5min., +24V supply)
•Analog Channels
Inputs // Outputs:
16 amplifier inputs (5V) // 2 analog outputs (10V, max. 1mA)
Sampling rate // Noise // Resolution:
max. 250kHz total sampling rate* // 1mV (7 LSB) // 16 bit
Abs. accuracy // Memory depth:
2.5mV // only depending on the size of the hard disk of the server PC
Surge protection:
35V (when turned on), 20V (when turned off), max. 20mA in total of all input channels!
Input resistance // Input capacity:
1M(with PC turned off: 1k) // 5pF
Zero shift // Gain drop:
50ppm/°C // 50ppm/°C
Frequency accuracy // Frequency drift:
max. 100ppm // max. 50ppm/°C
Galvanic isolation:
electrical isolation to the PC and to each other (depending on the 5B modules used)
* The total sampling rate is the sum of the sampling rates of the individual used channels (e.g. if 5 channels are scanned with 50kHz, the total sampling
rate adds up to 250kHz).
•Digital Channels
Channels // Level:
4 input and 4 output channels // CMOS/TTL compatible (low: 0V..0.7V; high: 3V..5V)
Current pick-up per output pin:
1mA (with app. 4V level), max. 2.5mA (with app. 3V level)
Surge protection:
max. 5.5V, protected with 1k, max. max. 20mA in total of all channels!
Counter:
1MHz, 16 bit, galvanically isolated, 5..12V input voltage
•General Data
Power supply:
+9..40V DC, ±5%, min 3W, max. 20W (depends on number of 5B modules used) at 3-pin DIN male
Analog connections:
inputs: different connectors (Phoenix, Binder, BNC, Thermo) on the front panels of the cassettes;
outputs: at a 37-pin D-Sub female at the device back
Digital connections:
all channels at a 15-pin D-Sub female at the device front
USB connection:
standard USB female connector, type B
CE standards:
EN61000-6-1, EN61000-6-3, EN61010-1; for decl. of conformity (PDF) visit www.bmcm.de
ElektroG // ear registration:
RoHS and WEEE compliant // WEEE Reg.-No. DE75472248
Max. permissible potentials // Protection:
60V DC acc. to VDE, max. 1kV ESD on open lines // IP20
Temperature ranges // Relative humidity:
operating temp. -25..50°C, storage temp. -25..70°C // 0-90% (not condensing)
Dimensions (W x H x D):
48.3 x 13.2 x 25.6cm3(with mounting brackets)
Delivery:
device, 1m USB connection cable
Available accessories:
plug-in cassettes with front panels and different conn. of the AMS-K series, extension AMS-DIG4 for 4
optocoupler inputs and 4 relay outputs, D-Sub plug ZU15ST and ZU37ST, 3-pin DIN socket ZU3DIN, gender
changer ZU37SS, conn. cables ZUKA37SB/SS (D-Sub), desktop power supply ZU-PW40W (24V, 1.67 DC),
carrying handle AMS-HANDLE2, set of base feet AMS-FOOT
Warranty:
2 years from date of purchase at bmcm, claims for damages resulting from improper use excluded
•Software
Software free of charge download:
LIBAD4 SDK for C/C++ programming on Windows®10/11
trial version of the measuring software NextView®to test and operate the hardware
NextView®(optional):
professional software (versions: Professional, Lite) for the acquisition and analysis of measurement data on
Windows®10/11
Manufacturer: BMC Messsysteme GmbH. Subject to change due to technical improvements. Errors and printing errors excepted. Rev. 4.2 12.10.2023