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          ELECTRONICS         

We offer a comprehensive range of electronic components designed to interface seamlessly with our EMB products. Our data acquisition (DAQ) systems support multiple software environments, including MATLAB® and Simulink®, Python, and C/C++.

 

This flexibility allows you to select the platform that best fits your curriculum, research, or development objectives while maintaining straightforward integration with our actuators and sensors.


Quick guide to choosing one of our DAQs:

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  • EMB-DAQ1 — USB DAQ (MATLAB® / Simulink®)
    The EMB-DAQ1 is designed for use with MATLAB® and Simulink® for simpler systems with up to two encoders. It connects via USB and can be used with either a laptop or desktop computer, making it a convenient and flexible option for standard laboratory environments and instructional use.

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  • EMB-DAQ2 — High-Performance PCIe DAQ (MATLAB® / Simulink®)
    The EMB-DAQ2 is based on the NI PCIe-6321 multifunction data acquisition card and is our recommended solution for maximum performance and reliability. It interfaces with MATLAB® and Simulink® using Simulink Desktop Real-Time and can handle up to four encoders. Because it requires a PCIe slot, it is compatible with desktop computers, but  it can also be used with laptops with the use of a Thunderbolt to PCIe expansion.
    The EMB-DAQ2 is well suited for advanced control applications and high-performance real-time experimentation.

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  • EMB-DAQ3 — Open-Frame DAQ (C/C++ or Python)
    The EMB-DAQ3 is an open-frame solution intended primarily for mechatronics and electronics courses where direct access to the hardware is important. It can be programmed using C/C++ or pysimCoder under Linux. With a USB connection, it can operate with either a laptop or desktop computer, providing a practical platform for hands-on hardware-level learning and experimentation.

 

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  • EMB-DAQ4 — Open-Frame DAQ (Arduino-Compatible)
    The EMB-DAQ4 is an open-frame platform designed for courses that require hardware accessibility while using Arduino-compatible development software. It connects via USB and is compatible with both laptop and desktop computers. This solution is particularly suitable for introductory embedded systems and mechatronics applications where simplicity and accessibility are priorities.

     

If you already have a DAQ system or other hardware that you would like to interface with our actuators and sensors, we can assist with specifications, cable selection, and connection guidance. Our products are designed for flexibility and can integrate easily with third-party hardware.

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We can also supply additional equipment not listed here, including test equipment, power supplies (either adjustable benchtop or fixed voltage), and all necessary wiring to ensure a complete and reliable setup.

EMB-DAQ1

The EMB-DAQ1 is our USB DAQ for MATLAB® and Simulink® integration. It uses the EASYIO platform from Zeltom with Simulink Desktop Real-Time™. Designed to interface seamlessly with our sensors, actuators, and interface module, it provides industrial connectors for a plug-and-play experience in a rugged enclosure.

Key features:

  • Real-time controller

  • Zeltom EASYIO platform

  • USB powered

  • Connectivity include: USB

  • Two Potentiometer Inputs with M12 Connectors (configurable)

  • Two Encoder Inputs with M12 Connectors (3 encoders with optional Zeltom's SIMLAB board)

  • Digital Inputs and Outputs (configurable)

  • Analog Inputs and Outputs (configurable)

  • One Power Indicator LED (on when the DAQ is on)

  • One User LED (controlled via PWM)

  • Two PWM Outputs

  • Connectors: screw terminal and M12

  • Additional inputs/outputs/peripherals available and configurable

  • Anodized aluminum body

  • Made in the USA​

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Note: MATLAB® and Simulink® are registered trademarks of The MathWorks, Inc.

EMB-DAQ2

The EMB-DAQ2 is our high-performance PCIe DAQ for MATLAB® and Simulink® integration. It is based on the NI PCIe-6321 multifunction data acquisition card and operates with Simulink Desktop Real-Time™ for deterministic, real-time control. Designed to interface seamlessly with our sensors, actuators, and interface modules, it delivers reliable, research-grade performance for advanced laboratory and control applications.

Key features:

  • Real-time controller (Simulink Desktop Real-Time™)

  • Based on National Instruments NI PCIe-6321 platform

  • PCIe interface

  • High-speed multifunction data acquisition

  • Up to 4 encoder inputs, 32-bit counters

  • 16 Analog inputs, 16-bit resolution

  • 2 Analog outputs, 16-bit resolution

  • Digital inputs and outputs (configurable)

  • Industrial-grade signal interfacing through our interface modules

  • One military-style connector input for E-STOP

  • E-STOP included

  • One Power Indicator LED (on when the DAQ is on)

  • One User LED (controlled via Digital Output)

  • Reliable, research-grade performance

  • DAQ Made in the USA and NI PCIe board Made in Hungary

  • Anodized aluminum body​

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Note: MATLAB® and Simulink® are registered trademarks of The MathWorks, Inc.

National Instruments and NI PCIe-6321 are trademarks of National Instruments.

EMB-DAQ3

The EMB-DAQ3 is powered by a powerful STM32 32-bit ARM Cortex M7 MCU.

This is an "open enclosure" DAQ that allows the user to interface directly with the controller board and shield. It has four cable glands instead of the M12 sensor connectors.

Can be ordered with the Maxon ESCON amplifier.

Key features:

  • Real-time controller

  • STM32 32-bit ARM Cortex M7 MCU

  • USB powered

  • Connectivity include: Ethernet, Serial, CAN

  • Two Potentiometer Inputs with cable glands

  • Two Encoder Inputs with cable glands (3 encoders with optional advanced module)

  • Seven Digital Outputs, 0 to 3.3V

  • Four Digital Inputs, 5V tolerant

  • Four 12-bit Analog Inputs (two for the potentiometers and two for the user) 0 to 3.3V

  • One Power Indicator LED, mounted on the PCB (on when the DAQ is on)

  • Two User LEDs, mounted on the PCB (controlled via Digital Output)

  • Two PWM Outputs, with optional Complementary signals

  • Connector: screw terminal

  • Additional connections made to the shield screw terminal

  • Additional inputs/outputs/peripherals available and configurable

  • Anodized aluminum body

  • Mounting holes for a Maxon ESCON amplifier (2X M4 clearance)

  • Made in the USA

EMB-DAQ4

The EMB-DAQ4, powered by an industrial-grade Arduino Mega from Rugged Circuits LLC (USA), ensures compatibility with the standard Arduino Mega board while offering enhanced safety features and protections.

Arduino's accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for engineering education laboratories. Its versatility and large community support further enhance its suitability for introducing students to engineering principles.

Additionally, the EMB-DAQ4 is designed for seamless integration with our sensors, actuators, and interface module. Its industrial connectors and rugged enclosure provide a plug-and-play experience.​

This DAQ has a "open enclosure" that allows the user to interface directly with the controller board and power distribution board. It has four cable glands instead of the M12 sensor connectors.

It comes with screw terminals on the Arduino board for robust connections. If preferred, we can offer with headers (in case you want to add shields).

Can be ordered with the Maxon ESCON amplifier.

Key features:​

  • ATmega2560 MCU

  • USB powered

  • Connectivity include: USB

  • Screw terminal connections on the Arduino (we can also offer the header version)

  • Two Potentiometer Inputs with M12 Connectors

  • Two Encoder Inputs with M12 Connectors (3 encoders with optional advanced module)

  • Seven Digital Outputs, 0 to 5V

  • Four Digital Inputs, 5V

  • Four 10-bit Analog Inputs (two for the potentiometers and two for the user) 0 to 5V

  • One Power Indicator LED (on when the DAQ is on)

  • One User LED (controlled via Digital Output)

  • Two PWM Outputs

  • Connectors: screw terminal and M12

  • Additional inputs/outputs/peripherals available and configurable

  • Anodized aluminum body

  • Mounting holes for a Maxon ESCON amplifier (2X M4 clearance)

  • Made in the USA

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Note: for full specs, visit https://www.rugged-circuits.com/mega-tech

There are many options for amplifiers as the EMB system is controller, amplifier, and DAQ agnostic.

Our standard offerings are the EMB-Motor Driver and the ESCON 50/5 manufactured by maxon (Switzerland).

It can easily connect to a DAQ via PWM and direction (digital output), and it can be set to current more or voltage mode (torque or velocity). An analog output from the ESCON can be used for current measurement to a DAQ or oscilloscope. Safety features such as E-Stop button, enable signals, current limit, temperature limit/monitor, and much more can be set using the ESCON Setup Studio software, a free and simple to use software from maxon. We configure the drive before shipment, and share the configuration files.

Key features:

  • For brushed and brushless motors

  • Input voltage range: 10 to 50 VDC

  • Output current: 5 A continuous, 15 A peak

  • Operation mode: current (torque) and voltage (speed)

  • Made in Hungary

EMB-ESCON AMPLIFIER

EMB-ESCON2 AMPLIFIER

The ESCON2 is the newer version of maxon's ESCON amplifier. We recommend this amplifier if you want to drive our brushless motor (EMB-AM2), as it offers sinusoidal commutation (Field Oriented Control, FOC). It can also be used with brushed motors (EMB-AM4).

The ESCON2 60/12 can easily interface with a DAQ or control system via analog or digital I/O, or via CANopen/USB/serial bus — giving you maximum flexibility for integration. It supports both current (torque) mode and speed (velocity) mode. Its analog or digital outputs can be used for monitoring motor current, speed, or status (e.g. for data logging or oscilloscope use). Using the free Motion Studio configuration software from maxon, you can set up safety and operational parameters — including enable/disable inputs, current limits, temperature monitoring, fault handling, and more. We configure the drive prior to shipment and provide the configuration files along with the unit.

Key features:

  • For brushed and brushless motors

  • Input voltage range: 10 to 60 VDC

  • Output current: 12 A continuous, 24 A peak

  • PWM-based 4-quadrant servo controller with up to 100 kHz PWM frequency

  • Operation mode: current (torque) and voltage (speed)

  • Made in Romania

EMB-IM1

The interface module is designed to interface with a DAQ, controller, or circuitry to monitor and/or control a plant.

Examples of applications include blinking (DO) or dimming (PWM) LEDs, using a pushbutton to enable motion, change direction or operation mode with the toggle switches.

Comes with 150 Ohm resistors for the LEDs (3.3V and 5V operation).

Key features:

  • 4  Green LEDs with 150 Ohm resistors

  • 2 Toggle Switches

  • 2 Pushbuttons

  • Connectors: screw terminal

  • Anodized aluminum body

  • Made in the USA

EMB-ACCELEROMETER

This accelerometer is based on the ADXL326 sensor from Analog Devices, using Adafruit's carrier board (Link). It outputs 3 analog voltages proportional to acceleration for each axis (X, Y, and Z).

The open and accessible design of this module allows the user to directly interface with the board, ideal for classes such as mechatronics and electronics.

The board is mounted to an anodized aluminum base plate that has a 1/4-20" (M6) counterbore to secure to an optical breadboard, or dove tail clamp. 

A common use for this sensor is with spring-mass-damper plants, with the EMB-Accelerometer sensor mounted to the moving carriage.

We can also supply a version with +/-3g rating (Link). The base plate is compatible with both sensors, allowing the user to interchange depending on their needs.

Key features:

  • Acceleration Rating: -16g to 16g

  • 3-Axis Sensing

  • Analog output voltage range: 0 to 3.3V

  • Analog output voltage at -16g: 0V

  • Analog output voltage at 0g: 1.65V

  • Analog output voltage at 16g: 3.3V

  • Anodized aluminum machined base

  • Made in the USA

EMB-MOTOR DRIVER

This motor driver is based on the ST's VNH5019 H-bridge motor driver, using Pololu's carrier board (Link). It can easily connect to a DAQ via a PWM and two digital signals.

The open and accessible design of this module allows the user to directly interface with the board, ideal for classes such as mechatronics and electronics.

The board is mounted to an anodized aluminum base plate that has a 1/4-20" (M6) counterbore to secure to an optical breadboard.

Key features:

  • For brushed motors

  • Input voltage range: 5.5 to 24VDC

  • Logic voltage levels: 2.5 to 5VDC (works with our DAQs)

  • Output current: 12A continuous, 30A peak

  • Operation mode: voltage (speed)

  • Current sense analog output voltage range: 0 to 3.3V

  • Anodized aluminum machined base

  • Made in the USA

EMB-ESTOP

This is a premium industrial emergency stop switch with round mushroom actuator. The HW switches from IDEC are known as "The best engineered switch in the world".

Key features:

  • DPST-NC (Double Pole Single Throw - Normally Closed).

  • Pushlock Turn Reset

  • 2m cable

  • Military-Standard connector

  • Made in Japan

For a quote or to place an order, contact us.

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