Getting Started with LabHelper

To begin working with LabHelper, you should do the following:

• Connect your A-D converter and install any necessary software and drivers (see below). 
• Briefly read through the Warthog File Formats and Menus pages. 
• Go to the Operating Modes page to begin running the program. 

   To use the Sable Systems Universal Interface 'UI2':

• If you have an older machine with built-in serial ports, build a connecting cable to link the computer's DIN-8 port to the DB-9 connector on the UI2.  This is not necessary on modern Macs, which have USB ports -- but you do need a USB-->serial converter (see below).
• Connect the UI2 to the computer's modem port if it has one, or to a USB-serial converter.  To switch ports, use the A-D menu. 

NOTE: At present, the UI2 works only in OS X, and essentiall all OS X-capable Macs are based on USB technology. Therefore, you'll need a serial port converter. I've verified that the Keyspan 2-channel serial port unit works nicely. I've also verified that other converters DO NOT work reliably, so I highly recommend the Keyspan units. If you are using the Keyspan AND a Stealth Serial Port, you should connect the UI2 to Port 2 on the Keyspan.

 

 

   To use the Remote Measurement Systems ADC-1:

NOTE: the ADC-1 is no longer being manufactured, but used ones can often be found and usually work fine.
• When you get your ADC-1, be sure to specify the normal input voltage range (±0.42 volts) and get the 50X programmable gain option on all 16 channels.  You can use an ADC-1 with the gain option on only 8 channels if you are careful to attach your instruments to those channels exclusively.  You can even use an ADC-1 without programmable gain, but resolution will be much more limited. 
• Set the DIP switches on the back of the ADC-1 to 9600 baud (you can use slower baud rates, but the default is 9600), no parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit. If these settings are incorrect, the LabHelper software won't work. 
• Build a connecting cable and power supply, as outlined in the very detailed and helpful ADC-1 instruction manual. 
• Connect the ADC-1 to the computer's modem port. You can also use other ports, but the modem port is the default.  To switch ports, use the A-D menu.