The Solution

The customer selected B&K Precision’s DAS1800 Data Acquisition System—a modular, scalable, and customizable platform engineered to provide maximum flexibility for complex test applications.

• Flexible Architecture: With ten input slots, the DAS1800 provided a platform that could be adapted to different DUTs and test configurations.

• Sensor Versatility: UNI4 four-channel universal input modules were used to acquire isolated telemetry voltages used to power and monitor high-reliability payload subsystems, while MUX8 eight-channel multiplexed modules captured both operating and environmental temperatures using Type-T thermocouples.
  
  
• Onboard Scripting Capability: Built-in scripting enabled real-time linearization and scaling of non-linear sensors, supporting the use of custom voltage divider networks in conjunction with the MUX8 modules. This provided live visibility into parameters that were previously only available during post-test analysis.

• • This capability reduced the need to repeat tests due to late-discovered temperature or telemetry anomalies during mission CONOPS execution.

• • The DAS1800 also supplied the required sensor reference voltages directly, eliminating the need for additional external signal-conditioning or excitation equipment.

• Rack-Ready Design: The ability to order systems with custom-fitted rack-mount hardware enabled direct installation into the contractor’s existing 19-inch rack infrastructure, minimizing integration effort, installation time, and fitment risk.

The Partnership

Beyond the technology, it was the collaboration that made the difference. B&K Precision worked closely with the customer to tailor the DAS1800 to their exact needs:

• Customized Solutions:
  • Designed a plug-in voltage divider card to accommodate specialized thermistors and simplify wiring.
  • USB ports, disabled at the factory, can be enabled or disabled via software codes allowing systems to be moved in and out of classified environments.
• Enhanced Software: Automated data backups over TCP/IP to the customer’s network-attached storage (NAS) systems were implemented to support extended, unattended test runs. Real-time minimum and maximum monitoring was also added to provide operators with immediate visibility into out-of-limit conditions that could require test interruption to prevent hardware damage.
• Forward-Looking Innovation: Development was initiated on a dedicated rack-mount DAS1800 variant with rear-accessible module slots and removable SSDs to reduce rack space while enabling future expansion and serviceability without requiring testbed teardown or downtime.

 DAS1800-R  –  Front View 

DAS1800-R – Rear View 

The Results

The contractor achieved a flexible, future-proof test system capable of supporting multiple satellite payload programs with confidence. Testing became more reliable, wiring more streamlined, and data more secure. By leveraging the DAS1800’s modular design and scripting capabilities, the team reduced engineering overhead while increasing test throughput.

In an industry where every launch window matters, the DAS1800 became more than test equipment—it became a trusted part of the mission.

Technical Product Profile: B&K Precision DAS1800

The DAS1800 High-Speed Modular Data Acquisition Recorder is designed for engineers who need uncompromising flexibility, accuracy, and scalability in demanding test environments. Built for aerospace, defense, industrial, and power applications, it delivers both precision measurements and ease of integration.

Key Capabilities 

• Measure and record up to 80 analog channels.
• Stream up to 40 channels at 1 MSa/s per channel.
• Configure up to 10 plug-and-play module slots for flexible setups.
• Measure voltages up to ±1500 VDC or 1000 Vrms with CAT III/CATIV safety ratings.
• Measure voltage, current (with shunts or clamps), resistance, and temperature.
• Temperature measurements with thermocouples, RTDs, and thermistors.
• Automatically calculate RMS, frequency, counter, PWM, Average, Min, and Max.
• Built-in scripting capability for performing real-time math calculations.
• Store sensor information and parameters in the sensor library.
• Supports simultaneous sampling and multiple sample rates (up to 4 per recording).
• Automatic file transfers to network attached storage (NAS) devices.
• Perform power quality analysis for DC, single-phase, and 3-phase networks (50, 60, 400 Hz).
• Display real-time waveforms, numeric values, phasor diagrams, and histogram charts.
• 6” Full HD multi-touch display with customizable dashboards.
• 2 TB SSD for long-duration recording.
• Remote access via VNC, web server, FTP, and DASpro PC software.

Module Options

• • Universal Module (D18-UNI4): 4 channels, ±600 V,voltage/current/thermocouple.
  • High Voltage Module (D18-HVM4): 4 channels,±1500 VDC, CAT III/IV safety.
  • High Impedance Module (D18-HIZ4): 4 channels,±600 VDC, 10 MΩ input impedance.
  • Multiplexed Module (D18-MUX8): 8 channels, ±48V, resistance, RTDs, thermocouples.
    

Interfaces & Expansion

• • Dual 1 Gbps LAN, USB 3.0/2.0, HDMI out.
  • 16 digital inputs (24 V), 4 digital outputs.
  • Built-in 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V, and 24 V reference supply for powering sensors.
  • Synchronization with optional IRIG, GPS, and IEEE1588 PTP.

Reliability & Standards

• • Safety certified: cTUVus certifies CSA and UL safety standard.
  • ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing.
  • Available Z540-1 compliant calibration.
  • Standard 3-year warranty.