Wireless Data Collection System

Wireless system from the L. S. Starrett Co. automates data collection, improving speed and accuracy compared to manual recording. DataSure system consists of three elements: miniature radios that connect to the data output ports of electronic tools, a USB or serial port gateway that connects to a PC, and signal routers that extend the system range in 100-ft. increments. Interfacing with major brands of electronic measuring tools and software, the system gathers data from measuring tools and sends it to the software by the shortest and most robust transmission path.

FULL RELEASE:

STARRETT INTRODUCES INNOVATIVE WIRELESS DATA COLLECTION SYSTEM

DataSure™ is the first wireless system to offer robust, reliable factory floor data collection.

ATHOL, MASSACHUSETTS (January 16, 2006) — Today, the L. S. Starrett Company announced the introduction of DataSure, a new wireless data collection system with proprietary design features. Utilizing radio transmission, DataSure can cover thousands of square feet while reliably preserving the integrity of measurement data. “We are excited about the new system technology” said Mr. Jeff Wilkinson, general manager of the company’s Advanced Technology Division. “Manufacturers finally have access to a reliable system that is simple and robust, permitting fast, accurate and portable data collection.”

Equally effective for shop use, metrology lab or large, plant-wide applications, DataSure interfaces with most major brands of electronic measuring tools and software and installs on PC’s running Windows XP Professional. The system automates data collection improving speed and accuracy when compared to manual recording. Also, by replacing costly and cumbersome wiring scenarios, DataSure lets users bring the gage to the work for more application flexibility and safety.

The DataSure Difference – Until now, wireless data collection systems have been unable to reliably capture and transmit data in manufacturing environments due to factory logistics and electrical interference. However, DataSure succeeds even in challenging plant situations, primarily due to its mesh network system architecture and proprietary design features.

The Starrett DataSure system consists of three elements: miniature radios (end nodes) that connect to the data output ports of electronic tools, a gateway that connects to a PC via the USB or serial port, and signal routers which greatly extend the system range in increments of 100 feet (30m) each and that can be configured to create the mesh architecture.

The system gathers data from the measuring tool and sends it to the software by the shortest or most robust connection path. Once data is received, a confirmation signal is sent back to the tool to indicate the data was successfully (or unsuccessfully) received. In the event that the host system is down or busy, readings can be stored at the end node and re-sent until they are safely recorded. Collected data can then be analyzed utilizing Starrett or other software products.
DataSure™ Details:

· The DataSure radio system works with Starrett, Mitutoyo, Sylvac, CDI , and various other manufacturers tools and gages
· A DataSure Gateway can handle up to 100 tools utilizing the integral virtual multiplexer
· Each radio’s range is approximately 100 feet (30 meters). Adding Routers can increase range in 100-foot increments up to 3000 feet.
· DataSure will work in almost any situation – its highly configurable system architecture adapts to the work environment.
· Users receive confirmation at the tool, indicating successful or unsuccessful transmission, system status, local data storage, etc.
· End Nodes can store readings in the event that the host system is down or busy. With DataSure, there’s no need to worry about losing an entire shift’s worth of collected data.

Since it’s founding over 125 years ago, The L.S. Starrett Company has earned a reputation as the world’s pre-eminent supplier of precision measuring tools and equipment. For more details and information about DataSure™, please contact The L.S. Starrett Company, 121 Crescent Street, Athol, MA 01331 Tel. 978-249-3551 or www.starrett.com.