Integrated modular measurement system having configurable firmware

Abstract

An integrated modular measurement system includes a universal module which is operable to receive measurement data from one or more measurement sensors, convert the measurement data into a value that represents a characteristic being measured and indicate the value to a user in a plurality of signal formats. An input module is coupled to the universal module and is operable to house one or more measurement sensors. The universal module and input module together operate to provide versatile measurement acquisition. A custom calibrated sensor module includes one or more sensors and a memory associated with and local to the one or more sensors. The memory contains calibration information which is uniquely associated with the sensors. In taking a measurement, the calibration information associated with the sensor taking the measurement is accessible for conversion instructions to thereby improve conversion accuracy. A method of interfacing a universal module to a plurality of measurement sensors includes coupling one of the measurement sensors to the universal module and identifying the measurement sensor being used. In addition, the universal module is configured in response to the identification of the measurement sensor to thereby facilitate accurate and versatile measurement acquisition for a plurality of measurement sensors.