MiniDAS is a compact, low-power submersible data-acquisition system with versatile input and output options, large non-volatile memory, and programmable logging and control functions. It can distribute power to, and collect data from multiple analog and digital instruments. 

The MiniDAS is fully programmable through the HydroScript programming language to support autonomous logging and control. 

The extensive interfacing capabilities and programmability of the MiniDAS make it a versatile tool for many oceanographic data collection applications!

Instrument Connections

Connections to individual instruments are made through four micro 4-pin connectors. The ports are configured at the factory to support the combination of input/output features you specify at the time of order (these choices can also be changed later). Standard four-pin ports normally include a ground pin, a switched power pin, and two data pins. The data pins may be assigned as RS232 transmit and receive or two analog inputs.  Other configurations involving 8-pin connectors, and branched cables are available to support more than 4 instruments.

Autonomous Logging

In an autonomous logging application, MiniDAS is typically powered by batteries and runs a "script"-a program written in the HydroScript language-to control its inputs and outputs. The supplied PC software includes tools for writing and operating scripts. A simple script might periodically turn on the attached instruments, collect their data into files, then go into low-power sleep until the next collection. The PC tools automate the process of constructing simple scripts, so many applications can be accommodated without great knowledge of HydroScript. However much more elaborate scripts are possible, in which, for example, the collection schedule varies with time of day, and is different for different instruments. Given a sufficient source of power, MiniDAS can operate indefinitely in this mode. At the end of a deployment, its accumulated data can then be offloaded using the supplied PC software.

Real-time Data Integration

In a real-time application, MiniDAS is typically powered from the surface. Power is sent from the surface at 12 volts (nominal) to MiniDAS via a 4-conductor cable. MiniDAS collects data simultaneously from a number of instruments, and sends them at high baud rates to the surface over the same cable. On the surface, software on a PC can demultiplex the data into files and/or to multiple USB serial ports on the PC. The optional RS485 host interface allows communication over longer cables than RS232; maximum cable length also depends on the amount of power required by attached instruments.

Combined Modes

Autonomous and real-time modes are not exclusive. For example, you can write a script that programs MiniDAS to wake periodically and send multiplexed data over a cable or radio link instead of logging it in its own memory.

Optional Features

• Serial digital expansion - Add 4 general-purpose serial ports for a total of 7. 
• RS485 host interface - For real-time operation over longer cables

Input/Output 

Versatile Data Handling 

Host software  

HydroScript programming language  

• Simple syntax tailored to MiniDAS functions 
• Program simple or complex sequences of events 
• Events can be programmed for specific dates and times (tied to battery-backed real-time clock), or regular intervals from seconds to days 
• Full bi-directional communication with serial digital instruments at any standard baud rate 
• Averaging of analog data 
• Store data into named files for later retrieval 
• Redirect data from one serial port to another, or to host computer

• Oceanographic data collection.
• Environmental monitoring.
• Ship-based real-time collection.
• Moored long-term collection.