MultiLab CE Guia de Usuario PDF

Integrating Student
Computing & Science
Affordable Student Computing
User Guide
MultiLab CE for the Nova5000
MultiLab CE
User Guide
For the Nova5000
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

2006 Fourier Systems Ltd. All rights reserved.
Reproduction of this document in any manner without the prior written
consent of Fourier Systems Ltd. is strictly forbidden.
Trademarks used in this text include:
Nova5000, MultiLab, Vernier
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or
other countries.
February 2007
P/N BK085
Rev: C
Table of Contents
Chapter 1:
Introduction to MultiLab
1.1.
MultiLab Window Layout
1.2.
MultiLab Main Toolbar
1.3.
MultiLab Graph Toolbar
1.4.
Meters View Toolbar
Chapter 2:
Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000
Chapter 3:
Operating MultiLab
7
11
3.1. Collecting Data

3.1.1. Launching MultiLab
3.1.2. Connecting the Sensors
3.1.3. Setting up the Sensor
3.1.4. Select Display
3.1.5. Recording Data
3.1.6. Saving your Data
11
11
11
12
15
16
16
3.2. Viewing Data

3.2.1. Data Map
3.2.2. Graph View
3.2.3. Table View
3.2.4. Meter View
3.2.5. Previewing Data
17
17
18
19
20
21
3.3. Opening and Downloading Data Sets

3.3.1. Opening Saved Data Sets
3.3.2. Downloading Data Sets
22
22
22
3.4. Analyzing the Data

23
3.4.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates
23
3.4.2. Reading the Difference between Two Coordinate Values
24
3.4.3. Using the Analysis Functions
24
3.4.4. Statistics
25
3.5.
Printing
3.6. Exporting/Importing CSV Files

3.6.1. Exporting CSV Files
25
26
26
3.6.2.
3.7.
Importing CSV Files
Resetting the Logger
Chapter 4:
Configuring Sensors in MultiLab
27
28
29
4.1. Choosing the Right Setup

4.1.1. Sampling Rate
4.1.2. Manual Sampling
4.1.3. Continuous Sampling
29
29
30
31
4.2. Programming Rules and Limitations

4.2.1. Number of Sampling Points
4.2.2. Maximum Sampling Rates
31
31
32
4.3.
Auto Detect Sensors
32
4.4.
Setting the Zero Point of a Sensor
33
4.5.
Averaging Sensor Readings
34
4.6.
Triggering
35
4.7.
The Timing Wizard
36
4.8. Calibrating Sensors

4.8.1. Hardware Offset Calibration
4.8.2. Nova5000 Automatic Zero Calibration
4.8.3. pH Temperature Compensation
4.8.4. MultiLab Sensor Calibration
4.8.5. Factory Calibration (No Calibration Required)
42
43
43
44
44
45
4.9.
45
Defining New Sensors
Chapter 5:
The Analysis Wizard
49
5.1.
Using the Analysis Wizard
49
5.2.
Analysis Functions List
50
5.3. The Timing Analysis Wizard

5.3.1. Working with the Analysis Timing Wizard
5.3.2. Measuring Methods
5.3.3. Time Schemes and Calculations
5.3.4. Tips on using the Timing Wizard
Chapter 6:
Working in Graph View
54
54
55
59
64
67
6.1.
The Cursor
67
6.2. Autoscale/Graph Properties

6.2.1. Autoscale
6.2.2. Manual Scaling
6.2.3. Selecting the X-axis
6.2.4. Formatting the Graph Colors
68
68
68
69
69
6.3. Zooming
6.3.1. Zooming into a Specific Area
70
70
6.4.
Annotations
70
6.5.
Adding a Graph to the Project
71
6.6.
Smoothing
71
6.7.
Prediction Tool
72
6.8.
Stretch/Compress Axis Tool
72
Chapter 7:
Additional Tool Menu Options
73
7.1.
Unit Settings
73
7.2.
Graph Title
74
7.3.
Crop
74
Chapter 8:
The Workbook
75
8.1.
Working with the Workbook Feature
75
8.2.
Opening a Worksheet
75
8.3.
Create your own Worksheet
76
Chapter 9:
Running the Nova5000 Logger from a PC
79
Appendix A:
Sensors Supported by the Nova5000
81
Appendix B:
Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor
85
Appendix C:
Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications
87
Customer Support
Fourier Systems is always ready to provide you with any technical
support you might need regarding MultiLab, or the Nova5000.
Please contact us as follows:
Toll-free telephone (USA only): 1-866-771-NOVA
e-mail: support@fourier-sys.com
Web: http://www.fourier-sys.com/support_support.html
Chapter 1:
Introduction to MultiLab
Fourier Systems has developed a Windows CE version of its
renowned MultiLab software, supporting the Nova5000's data logging
capability.
MultiLab is a powerful software tool, letting you collect, display and
analyze data, turning the Nova5000 into a true Digital Lab and
engaging students with science.
Using the Nova5000's four sensor ports, you can run up to eight
sensors simultaneously from a selection of over 50 Fourier sensors,
or up to 20 Vernier sensors too.
MultiLab's flexible and comprehensive features let you:
Collect and display data online, in real-time
Display data in graphs, tables, and meters
Analyze data using the Analysis Wizard
Import/Export data as CSV files
Run Workbooks to guide students through lab activities
Open video files to watch prerecorded experiments
And much more
Note: Connect your Nova5000 to a PC and benefit from the
more extensive features of the full MultiLab for PC version.
See page 79 for more details.
1.1.
MultiLab Window Layout
The MultiLab interface is simple and innovative. You can switch

between three different display views, depending on how you want
your data displayed during real-time data logging.
Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab
Graph view (the default view when opening MultiLab)
Data Map
Table view
Meter view
1.1.1.
Main Window Layout
The main window layout below is the default layout first visible when
launching MultiLab.
1.1.2.
Status and Title Bars
The bottom pane of the MultiLab window consists of the Status bar
and Title bar.
Status bar
Title bar
Status Bar
The Status bar indicates the current status of the MultiLab software.
For example:
Logger ready MultiLab ready to log data
Run MultiLab is currently logging data
Stopping Logger MultiLab is stopping data logging
Download MultiLab is currently downloading data
Title Bar
The Title bar indicates the name of the file currently opened.
1.2.
MultiLab Main Toolbar
The upper toolbar is the main MultiLab toolbar and consists of the
following buttons for operating the main MultiLab features:
Open file
Save file
Run logger
Stop logger
Download data
Setup logger
Launch video
Graph view
Table view
Meter view
Launch Workbook
Analysis wizard
Linear fit
Derivative
This toolbar is always available no matter what mode MultiLab is in.
1.3.
MultiLab Graph Toolbar
The lower toolbar functions as the graph toolbar and includes the
following buttons for operating the graph features, when the Graph
view is enabled.
Add annotation
Move annotation
Zoom in
Autoscale
More smoothing
Less smoothing
First cursor
Second cursor
Back cursor
Forward cursor
Graph properties
Add graph to properties
Export to PlanMaker
Pause/Play predictions
Add prediction
Erase prediction
This toolbar is not visible in the following modes:
Table view
Meters view
Workbook mode
1.4.
Meters View Toolbar
The Meters view toolbar is visible when operating in Meters view.

Enter Meters view using the
follows:
button. The toolbar buttons are as
Analog view
Bar view
Digital view
Chapter 2:
Connecting Sensors to the
Nova5000
Before you start using the MultiLab software, you should first
familiarize yourself with the Nova5000 sensor interface.
Note: You are able to connect over fifty Fourier sensors and
up to a selection of 20 Vernier sensors to the Nova5000.
See page 81 for a full list of supported sensors.
Sensors are connected to the four input/output (I/O) sockets situated
on the top of the Nova5000. These ports are labeled I/O-1 to I/O-4, as
shown below. All four sockets can be used simultaneously.
I/O-1 I/O-2 I/O-3 I/O-4
To connect a sensor to the Nova5000 use one of the mini-din cables

supplied with your sensor. Plug one end of the cable into the
Nova5000 with the arrow facing down, and the other end into the
sensor.
If you are using one sensor only connect it to I/O-1. If you are using
two sensors connect them to I/O-1 and I/O-2, and so on.
Chapter 2 Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000
Connecting more than four sensors

In order to connect more than four sensors at a time, use splitter
cables also supplied by Fourier, which will enable the connection of
up to eight sensors simultaneously. When a splitter cable is
connected, it must be connected to the socket in the correct numerical
order. For example, when using five sensors, I/O-1 to I/O-3 will have
the individual sensors connected, and I/O-4 will have the splitter cable
connected.
To connect a splitter cable, first connect to the Nova5000 the end of
the cable with only a single plug. The other end of the cable has two
plugs. One of these plugs is marked with two arrows. This is the main
cable input which, when connected to a sensor, is assigned the lower
I/O number on the Nova5000. The second plug is marked with the
letter S (Split) indicating that it is the secondary input (the higher I/O
number). For example, if connecting the splitter cable to I/O-4, the
main cable input (with the arrows) is assigned I/O-4 and the
secondary cable input (with S) is assigned I/O-5.
Using four splitter cables

Connect up to four input splitters to split the Nova5000s sensor inputs
starting with I/O-4 (the splitters must be connected in order):
I/O-4 splits into I/O-4 and I/O-5
Note: Before connecting the mini-din cable to the Nova5000
or the sensor sockets, make sure that the mini-din plug is
correctly positioned in front of the socket. Connecting the
cable in an awkward position might cause damage to the
cable pins.
Connecting Vernier sensors

If you are using a Vernier sensor, first consult page 81 to ensure that
this sensor is supported by the Nova5000.
You must also have the Vernier adapter supplied by Fourier in order
to connect the sensor to the Nova5000 sensor interface.
For MultiLab to recognize Vernier sensors, you must define them in
the software using the Define New Sensors option. Please refer to
page 45.
Note: When using any of the sensors listed below, you must
connect the Nova5000 to the AC adapter. You will otherwise
not record accurate data if running the Nova5000 from
battery power alone. These sensors require additional power
when working with the Nova5000.
Distance 0.4-10m: P/N DT020-1
Exercise heart rate: P/N DT298
Pressure 150-1150: P/N DT015
10
Chapter 3:
Operating MultiLab
In this chapter, you'll learn the basics for collecting, viewing and
analyzing your data using MultiLab.
Note: Instructions below are written on the basis of using a
stylus when operating the MultiLab software. Therefore all
on screen actions are referred to as taps, rather than clicks.
3.1.
Collecting Data
3.1.1. Launching MultiLab

Go to Start > Programs > Science & Math > MultiLab to launch the
MultiLab software.
This will launch the MultiLab in the default Graph view.
Creating a MultiLab Desktop Shortcut

Open the My Nova icon on the desktop and navigate to the \Program
Files\Fourier Systems\MultiLab CE folder. Tap once on the
MultiLabCE.exe file (do not open this file) and on the main menu,
select File > Send To > Desktop as Shortcut.
You may now launch MultiLab from the Nova5000 desktop.
3.1.2. Connecting the Sensors

Connect between one to four sensors to the Nova5000 sensor inputs.
The arrow on the sensor plug should be face down.
Chapter 3 Operating MultiLab
11
Sensors must be added successively, starting with I/O-1 and then I/O2 and so on.
See Chapter 2: Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000 for more details.
3.1.3. Setting up the Sensor

Setting up the sensors is a key step in preparing for data logging.
Here, you define the specific sensors you are using and the sampling
rate and sampling size required.
1. On the Logger menu select Setup or tap the Setup button
The Setup window will open.
12
2. On the Sensors tab the Auto Detect Sensors check box should
be selected (this is the default setting). The connected sensors
should be automatically displayed in the Input fields.
3. If the Auto Detect Sensors check box is not selected, you must
select the connected sensors from the relevant Input drop-down
menus.
4. To adjust the Display properties of a specific sensor, tap the
Sensor properties button
adjacent to the Input field.
a. In the Sensor properties dialog box, you can adjust the color
of the sensor plot and of the y-axis in the Graph view.
b. To define the scale of the data that you want displayed e.g.
40-60% instead of 0-100% for the Humidity sensor, unselect
the Autoscale check box and enter the scale in the Min and
Max fields.
c. To restore the Color or Scale settings to default, tap Restore
Defaults.
5. Tap the Rate tab and in the Rate drop-down menu, select the
relevant number of samples per second/minute/hour.
13
a. If you select the Manual recording rate, you can manually

record each data point. To perform manual logging, first
continue to the end of the Setup process. Tap Run to record
the first sample. When ready, tap Run again to record the
second sample and so on.
b. To stop the Manual data logging session, go to Logger >
Stop.
Note: If the sampling rate is higher than 100 samples per
second, the data will be automatically displayed on the
graph once the recording has stopped.
6. Tap the Samples tab and in the drop-down menu, select the
relevant number of samples to record. You will see the maximum
recording time based on the number of samples chosen.
14
c. On this tab, you can also choose to clear the memory of the
data logger before you start recording fresh data. Just select
the Clear memory check box and tap OK on the upper right of
the window.
Note: This will clear all experiment data currently residing in
the logger memory not the MultiLab software data files.
d. To learn how to use the Triggering function, refer to page 35.
Refer to Chapter 4: Configuring Sensors for more details.
3.1.4. Select Display

From the main MultiLab toolbar, select the display in which you want
to view the data recording.
Tap one of the following display icons:
Graph
Table
Meter
Note: The Graph view is the default view when launching
MultiLab.
15
3.1.5. Recording Data

Note: When MultiLab is recording data the Nova5000 will not
go into Suspend.
1. To start recording data, on the Logger menu select Run or tap
Run
on the main toolbar.
As soon as you click Run, you will see the data being logged in the
MultiLab window, in one of the three displays you selected in
section 3.1.4 above.
While in the middle of recording data, you can switch between the
three display views - Graph, Table or Meter view.
Note: If the sampling rate is higher than 100 samples per
second, the data will be automatically displayed on the
graph once the recording has stopped.
2. To manually stop recording data, on the Logger menu tap Stop or
tap the Stop button on the upper toolbar.
3. MultiLab will also stop recording automatically once the predefined
sample size has been reached.
Note: If you accidentally disconnect a sensor during data
collection, MultiLab will continue to Run but the collected
data from the point of disconnection will be inaccurate.
3.1.6. Saving your Data

Once recorded, your data is added to the Data Map as a data set (see
page 17). However, if you do not save this data, you will lose it upon
exiting MultiLab.
You will be prompted to save open data when exiting MultiLab.
To save your data set, on the File menu select Save File or tap the
Save button
16
This will save all the open data sets in the Data Map under one file
name. You cannot save individual data sets.
On the File menu, select Save As to save a previously saved file
under a different name.
3.2.
Viewing Data
As previously mentioned MultiLab features three views for viewing

data that is being recorded, Graph, Table and Meter. You can easily
switch between these views using the upper toolbar buttons.
Once you have completed your experiment you can then view the
recorded data offline in Graph or Table view. Meter view is for viewing
data during real-time data recording only.
3.2.1. Data Map

The Data Map is situated on the left of the MultiLab window and lists
the data sets that were recorded in the current MultiLab session. The
Data Map is populated by running experiments or opening previously
saved data sets. The Data Map cannot be moved or hidden.
A data set contains all data recorded in a particular experiment. Each
sensor used in the experiment has its own entry in the data set, and
you can toggle which data, if not all, to display in the graph or table.
When you apply analysis functions onto your data, an entry for that
specific function is also added to the Data Map.
You have the following options when using the Data Map:
To display the complete list of sensors for an individual
experiment, tap the plus sign (+) next to the experiment entry to
expand its data set.
To collapse the sensor list under an individual experiment, tap
the minus sign (-) next to the experiment entry.
To display a specific data set tap its name in the list, and then
tap Show situated at the bottom of the Data Map. You can
also choose to display data from specific sensors in the data
set. Simply tap the sensor name and tap Show.
17
To hide a data set tap its name in the list, and then click Hide
situated at the bottom of the Data Map. You can also choose
to hide data from specific sensors in the data set. Simply tap
the sensor name and tap Hide.
To remove a data set from the Data Map, tap and hold on the data
set and select Delete Data.
To display data from a specific sensor on the graph, tap and hold
on the sensor entry in the data set and select Display on Graph.
Note: Showing or hiding a data set with the Data Map
applies both to the Graph and Table views.
Data
hidden
Exp. 2 Humidity sensor data
Data
shown
Exp. 2 Linear function on

Humidity data
Data Map
Tap to
Show
data set
Exp. 2 Temperature sensor data
Tap to
Hide
data set
3.2.2. Graph View

Tap Graph
to display the data in graph view. The default graph
display is the data set or sets plotted vs. time.
18
The graph usually displays all the data sets of a given recording, but
you can use the Data Map to remove or hide one or more of the sets
from the graph.
In order to keep the graph easy to read, only one Y-axis is shown on
the graph. To change the Y-axis to reflect a specific sensor, select the
desired sensor from the drop-down menu situated above the graph.
You can identify the Y-axis by its color, which matches the plot color.
3.2.3. Table View

Tap Table
to display the data table.
The data that is displayed in the table always matches the data in the
corresponding graph. Each sensor Input is represented by a separate
column in the table.
Use the Data Map to change the data displayed in the table.
19
Add Manual Column

You can manually add a new data set to a data table, even after the
experiment has been conducted. You can then view this data set as a
plot line in Graph view.
1. On the Tools menu, select Add Manual Column.
2. In the Insert manual column dialog box, enter the Column title
and Column unit.
3. On the data table, manually enter data into the newly created
column.
4. Switch to Graph view and tap Show on the new data set icon in
the Data Map to view the plot on the graph.
3.2.4. Meter View

MultiLab enables you to view data in Meter format in the main
MultiLab window. When you move to Meter view, you will see realtime data readings from the sensors currently connected to MultiLab.
Tap Meter
on the main toolbar to switch to Meter view. One of
the three Meter views will open.
You can switch between Meter types by tapping the corresponding
icon on the Meter toolbar situated below the Meter view window.
Analog view
Bar view
Digital view
The Meter view is used to:
View live data without actually recording this data i.e. to monitor
the current real-time sensor readings (Snapshot mode)
View data in real-time while it is being recorded by MultiLab (Run
mode).
The meters scaling automatically matches the graphs scaling.
20
While viewing or collecting data in Meter view, you are only able to
view the data of one sensor at a time. If you have more than one
sensor connected, switch between these sensors on-the-fly using the
drop-down sensor menu located above the Meter view.
Snapshot Mode
In Snapshot mode, MultiLab continuously displays the real-time data
but the data is not actually saved i.e. a snapshot of the data is
displayed. A small camera icon
indicates you are in Snapshot
mode, and is located on the bottom left of the Meter window.
To work in Snapshot mode, simply connect your sensor and switch to
Meter view. As long as you dont tap Run, you will remain in Snapshot
mode and MultiLab will display the sensor data.
Run Mode
To start collecting data while remaining in Meter display, simply click
Run
in the main toolbar. The
running man icon
icon will switch to a small
, indicating you are now in Run mode.
3.2.5. Previewing Data

Prior to collecting data you may wish to preview your data. In Preview
mode you can:
21
Ensure that the sensors are properly connected to the Nova5000.

Verify that a sensor is measuring what you intended it to measure.
Verify that a sensor has reached a stable value.
Note: In Preview mode, data is not saved.
To preview data:
1. Connect the sensors to the Nova5000 and perform required sensor
setup.
2. On the Logger menu, select Preview.
3. The MultiLab will start running the data. Verify that the sensors are
working properly and the data is accurate.
4. Click Stop
3.3.
to stop previewing the data.
Opening and Downloading Data

Sets
3.3.1. Opening Saved Data Sets

To open previously saved data sets, select Open File on the File
menu and select the desired file from the Open File dialog box.
The saved file, with all the data sets included in it, will be added to the
Data Map.
3.3.2. Downloading Data Sets

By using the Download feature in the Logger menu, you are able to
download data sets recorded in the current MultiLab session. For
instance, you may have recorded an experiment but then removed it
from data map. Using the Download feature, you are able to recover
the data from the logger memory.
22
Note: Once you have closed MultiLab, all data is cleared

from the logger memory unless it was saved.
How does Download Work?

Whenever you tap the Download button
or go to Logger >
Download, MultiLab will download the last recorded data set into the
Data Map. The first time you tap Download, MultiLab will download
the most recently recorded data set. The second time you tap
Download, the next to last recorded data set will be downloaded, and
so on in a continuous cycle.
Selective Download
This option allows you to retrieve a specific data set, according to the
experiment number assigned to the data set.
Simply go to Logger > Selective Download, select the Experiment
number from the drop-down menu and tap Download.
Remember: Once MultiLab is closed, all unsaved data sets
will be lost.
3.4.
Analyzing the Data
Once you have collected and viewed your data, you have the option
to analyze it using a variety of tools available in the MultiLab.
The sections below detail the various analysis methods. Also refer to
Chapter 5: The Analysis Wizard for further details.
3.4.1. Reading Data Point Coordinates

When in Graph view, position the cursor (see page 67) on a point on
the graph. Its coordinates will be displayed at the bottom of the graph
window.
23
3.4.2. Reading the Difference between

Two Coordinate Values
First, position one cursor on the first point and then position a second
cursor on the second point on the graph. The difference between the
two coordinate values will be displayed at the bottom of the graph
window.
3.4.3. Using the Analysis Functions

A number of analysis functions are available under the Tools menu.
These functions can only be applied to data sets that are currently
displayed in the graph window.
When applied, the analysis function will be visible on the graph.
To apply an analysis function:
1. First ensure the relevant graph is open in the main Graph window.
2. Use the graph cursors to select the data range to which you want
to apply the analysis.
3. Select Analysis on the Tools menu.
4. The Analysis menu will open. You may either select:
a. Analysis Wizard - Opens a wizard, guiding you though an
extensive list of analysis functions.
b. Linear Fit - Draw a line of linear least square fit y = ax + b
c. Power Curve Fit - Draw a line of power least square fit
y=
a
xn
d. Exponential Curve fit - Draw a line of exponential least

square fit y = ae bx
e. Quadratic Curve fit - Draw a line of quadratic least square fit
y = ax 2 + bx + c
f. Derivative - Use Derivative to construct a graph in which each
point is the slope of the three consecutive points on the source
graph.
24
g. Integral - Use Integral to construct a graph in which each point

is the integral of all the preceding points on the source graph.
h. Statistics Display statistics on a selected range of data. See
section 3.4.4 below for more details.
If you select one of the functions from 4b-g above, the function will be
applied to the graph immediately and the curve fit equation and
correlation coefficient (R2) will be displayed on the information bar
below the graph.
Note: You can also apply the Linear Fit and Derivative
functions by tapping the respective buttons in the upper tool
bar.
3.4.4. Statistics
By selecting Statistics on the Tools > Analysis menu, you can
display statistics of a selected data set or a range of data.
The statistics include:
Average - The average of all the numbers in the range
Median - The median (or middle) data point in the range
Mode - The data point with the highest frequency in the range
StDev - The standard deviation
Minimum - The smallest value in the range
Maximum - The largest value in the range
Sum - Adds all the numbers in the range
Area - The area between the graph and the x-axis in the range
Rate - The recording rate
Samples - The number of data points in the range
3.5.
Printing
Assuming you have established connection between the Nova5000

and a printer, you may choose to print either a graph or a table from
MultiLab.
25
Select the data set in Data Map and go to File > Print. The following
dialog box pops up.
To print a graph, simply select the Graph option and tap Print.
To print a table, select the Table option and choose to either print all
data in the table or a selection of data, by unselecting the Print all
data check box and entering the print range.
3.6.
Exporting/Importing CSV Files
3.6.1. Exporting CSV Files

Using the Nova5000s PlanMaker spreadsheet application, you are
able to export the raw data contained in any given data set in MultiLab
into a CSV (Comma Separated Value) file.
By doing so, you will be able further manipulate the data in
PlanMaker. For example, build bar charts using the data range.
To export a CSV file:
1. Select the data set in the Data Map that you want to export to
PlanMaker.
2. Go to File > Export CSV file or tap the Export to PM button
in the graph toolbar.
3. The Save As dialog box will open. Enter the name of the CSV file
and tap OK.
26
4. PlanMaker will launch and the Import options dialog box will pop
up. Select the Comma separator option.
5. The main PlanMaker window will open with the exported data
displayed.
3.6.2. Importing CSV Files

You can import back into MultiLab, files containing MultiLab data that
were saved in CSV format.
To import a CSV file:
1. On the File menu, select Import CSV file.
2. In the dialog box that opens, browse to the location of the CSV file
and click OK.
27
3. The file will be imported to MultiLab, and you will be able to view
the data in Graph and Table view.
3.7.
Resetting the Logger
If the MultiLab application is not functioning as expected this could

mean the Nova5000 data logger is experiencing operating problems
and requires a reset.
You can reset the Nova5000 by going to Logger > Reset Logger.
Resetting the logger simply reinitializes the logger and clears the
logger memory i.e. all unsaved experiments conducted in the current
MultiLab session will be deleted.
This operation does not clear the MultiLab data files, however. These
files are saved in the MultiLab software folders and can only be
deleted manually.
28
Chapter 4:
Configuring Sensors in
MultiLab
This chapter provides further details on using sensors with MultiLab,
including setting up sensors, calibrating sensors and other important
information.
4.1.
Choosing the Right Setup
4.1.1. Sampling Rate

The sampling rate should be determined by the frequency of the
phenomenon being sampled. If the phenomenon is periodic, sample
at a rate of at least twice the expected frequency. For example, sound
recordings should be sampled at the highest sampling rate
20,800/sec, but changes in room temperature can be measured at
slower rates such as once per second or even slower, depending on
the speed of the expected changes.
There is no such thing as over-sampling. For extremely smooth
graphs, the sampling rate should be about 20 times the expected
frequency.
Note: Sampling at a rate slower than the expected rate can
cause frequency aliasing. In such a case, the graph will show
a frequency much lower than expected. In the figure below,
the higher frequency sine wave was sampled at 1/3 of its
frequency. Connecting the sampled points yielded a graph
with a lower, incorrect frequency.
Chapter 4 Configuring Sensors in MultiLab
29
Frequency aliasing
After you have chosen the sampling rate, choosing the number of
points will determine the logging period:
Samples / Rate = Logging time.
You can also choose the duration of an experiment first, and then
calculate the number of samples:
Samples = Logging time Rate.
4.1.2. Manual Sampling

Use Manual sampling for:
Recordings or measurements that are not related to time.
Situations in which you have to stop recording data after each
sample obtained, in order to change your location, or any other
logging parameter
Note: During the experiment no changes can be made to the
MultiLab sensor configuration.
To start an experiment using manual data logging:
1. Go to the Rate tab in the Setup Wizard.
2. Select Manual from the Rate drop-down menu.
3. Tap Run once to record the first sample. Tap Run again to record
the next data point, and so on.
30
4. To stop the Manual data logging session, go to Logger > Stop.
4.1.3. Continuous Sampling

In Continuous mode, MultiLab can continue to logging indefinitely.
Data is automatically saved and displayed real-time in the MultiLab
graph.
To operate in Continuous mode:
1. On the Rate tab in the Setup Wizard, select a rate equal to or less
than 100/s.
2. On the Samples tab, select Continuous.
Remember: Continuous sampling is disabled for sampling
rates faster than 100/s.
4.2.
Programming Rules and

Limitations
The following are some rules and limitations you must take into
account when programming sensors for use with the Nova5000.
MultiLab integrates all programming limitations automatically and will
only allow the programming of settings that comply with the rules
below.
4.2.1. Number of Sampling Points

Increasing the number of active inputs limits the number of sampling
points one can choose. The following condition must always be
satisfied:
Samples Active Inputs < Memory
31
Nova5000s data logger memory is sufficient for 100,000 samples.

However, when sampling at rates faster than 100 samples per
second the memory can store only two experiments of 32,000
samples each.
Selection of 100,000 sampling points will create 2 files of 50,000
points each in the data loggers memory.
4.2.2. Maximum Sampling Rates

The number of sensors in use limits the maximum sampling rate as
follows:
Number of
Sensors
4.3.
Maximum Sampling Rate
20,800 samples per second
Auto Detect Sensors
MultiLab has two working modes when setting up the sensors. The
default mode is Auto Detect Sensors. In this mode, the sensor you
connect to the Nova5000 will be automatically identified by MultiLab,
as long as the sensor is predefined in MultiLab.
When using more than four sensors, when using Vernier sensors, or if
youve defined your own custom sensor, unselect the Auto Detect
Sensors checkbox so you can then select the sensor manually from
the sensor drop-down menu.
MultiLab saves the current mode selection and will automatically open
in that mode the next time you launch the software.
32
To enable MultiLabs Auto detect mode:

1. On the Logger menu, select Setup or tap the
main toolbar.
button in the
2. Tap the Sensors tab.

3. Ensure the Auto Detect Sensors checkbox is selected.
4. Click OK.
5. To switch to eight sensors mode unselect the Auto Detect
Sensors checkbox.
4.4.
Setting the Zero Point of a

Sensor
MultiLab enables you to rescale some sensors and to set the current
readings to zero for subsequent loggings. This feature applies to the
following sensors:
Distance
Force
Magnetic field
Light sensors
Pressure sensors
To set the current readings of a sensor to zero:
1. Tap Setup
on the main toolbar to open the Setup Wizard.
2. Tap the Sensor properties

want to set.
icon next to the sensor input you
3. Tap the Set Zero tab.

4. Check the Set the current reading to zero check box.
5. Tap OK, and tap OK again to exit the Setup window.
MultiLab takes a single measurement and sets the reading to
zero.
33
To change the zero point

1. Tap Setup

want to set.
3. Tap the Set Zero tab.

4. Tap the Reset zero button.
To return to the default zero point

1. Tap Setup

want to set.
3. Uncheck the Set the current reading to zero check box.

4.5.
Averaging Sensor Readings
Using the Averaging feature allows you to smooth any noise in your
data sampling. Averaging works by taking a user defined number of
the most recently recorded data points and recording an average
sample of these points.
You can apply Averaging on all sensors that are currently recording.
1. Go to Logger > Averaging to open the Averaging dialog box.
34
2. Drag the slider to select between 0 15 samples for averaging.

3. Tap OK.
4.6.
Triggering
You can start data recording only when a specific time or

measurement condition has been met.
1. Tap Triggering on the Samples tab of the Setup Wizard.
This opens the Triggering dialog box:
2. Select the triggering sensor in the Based on drop-down menu.

3. Choose one of the following from the Type options:
a. None - Trigger is disabled
b. Above level - Start logging only once the measured value is
higher than the trigger level.
c. Below level - Start logging only once the measured value is
lower than the trigger level.
d. Event Recording - This function enables you to record the
exact time and date at which a certain phenomenon occurs.
The trigger level set for this option is actually a threshold
setting. Each time the threshold is crossed, MultiLab will record
the exact time and date of the occurrence, and will continue to
do so until the desired number of samples has been obtained.
35
Note: The trigger acts on analog measurements only (not on

the distance sensor). The trigger condition must be fulfilled
for at least 300S.
e. Control Level - The control level trigger allows you to create
an automatic sense & control system. This means that you can
connect a sensor measuring a certain phenomenon (for
example, temperature) and connect a device that will start
operating when the recorded data from the sensor falls above
or below a certain level (for example, a fan that will start
operating when the temperature measured by the sensor rises
above 30C). This function requires the use of a splitter cable
and a control sensor. The cable divides each input into a
sensor cable and a controller cable. After setting the control
level and starting the data logging process, the sensor will
sample and record the data as usual. However, when the
measurement from the sensor rises above the predetermined
threshold value, the controller cable will send a pulse of 5V to
the control sensor, and will continue to do so until the sensor
measures a value below the threshold level. When receiving
the 5V pulse, the control sensor will close/open a relay capable
of switching 110/220V to any load.
4. Tap OK to exit the Triggering dialog box. Tap OK again to exit
Setup Wizard.
4.7.
The Timing Wizard
MultiLab enables you to measure events such as Time, Velocity and

Acceleration using the photogate sensor and the Logger Timing
Wizard.
Working with the Timing Wizard

Connect one photogate to I/O-1 of the Nova5000 or two photogates,
one to input I/O-1 and the other to I/O-2, depending on the type of
data you require.
1. On the Logger menu, select Timing Wizard to open the Timer
module.
36
2. Select one of the options for measurement: Time, Velocity or

Acceleration.
3. Tap the Timing Wizard Method tab.
4. Select one of the options to select the measuring method.

5. If required, enter the bodys width in mm (an integer between 0 to
59), or the distance between the gates in cm (an integer between 0
to 99) in the text box (for velocity and acceleration measurements
only).
6. Tap OK to exit the Timing Wizard and tap Run to enter the timing
standby mode.
Timing begins each time a body blocks the photogate in input 1
and ends when unblocking the photogate in input 1 or input 2
37
(according to the event method). MultiLab displays the results in a

bar graph and in the data table.
You can repeat as many measurements as you need. After each
event, MultiLab adds the results as a new bar in the graph and as
new raw data in the table.
7. To exit the timing mode select Logger > Stop on the main toolbar.
Measuring Methods
The Timing Wizard offers you various methods of analyzing the
different measurements. In some measurements you will be asked to
enter the dimension of the moving body, or the distance between the
two photo gates to allow for the calculation of velocity and
acceleration.
The methods depend on the selected measurement:
Time
At one gate
Measures the time it
takes the body to
cross the photo gate
(between blocking and
unblocking the infrared
beam)
Between gates
takes the body to
move from one photo
gate to the second
photo gate (between
blocking the first and
blocking the second
infrared beams)
38
Velocity
At one gate
takes the body to
beam) and returns the
velocity.
You should enter the
bodys width in mm.
Between gates
takes the body to
move from one photo
gate to the second
photo gate (between
blocking the second
infrared beams) and
returns the average
velocity.
distance between
gates in cm.
Acceleration
Between gates
Measures the crossing
time at the first gate,
the time it takes the
body to move from
one gate to the
second gate and the
crossing time at the
second gate and
39
returns the average

acceleration.
bodys width in mm.
Time Schemes and Calculations

TIME MEASUREMENTS
At one gate
t2
t1
Result:
t = t 2 t 1
Between gates
t2
Input 1
t1
t3
Input 2
Result:
40
t = t 3 t1
VELOCITY
At one gate
Required parameters: w the bodys width
t1
t2
Result:
v=
w
; t = t 2 t1
t
Between gates
Required parameters: L the distance between gates
t2
Input 1
t1
t3
Input 2
Result:
t4
v=
L
; t = t 3 t1
t
41
ACCELERATION
Between gates
t
t2
Input 1
t1
t3
Input 2
t4
w
w
; v2 =
t 2 t1
t 4 t3
v1 =
Result:
4.8.
t 4 + t 3 t 2 t1
2
v v
a= 2 1
t
t =
Calibrating Sensors
You are able to increase the accuracy of Nova5000 sensors using

various calibration techniques. Most of the Fourier sensors are linear,
i.e. the output level of each sensor changes according to the equation:
Y = aX + b
Where:
Y - Output of the sensor (voltage level changing from 0 to 5V)
X - Sensor input
42
a - Sensor gain
b - Sensor offset
The calibration process allows us to control the offset, and in some
cases even the gain, of a sensor. You are able to perform four types
of calibration:
Hardware offset calibration
MultiLab Automatic zero calibration
MultiLab Sensor calibration
Factory calibration (no manual calibration required)
4.8.1. Hardware Offset Calibration

On some of the sensors there is a screw controlling the sensor offset.
To calibrate the sensor, run this sensor in MultiLab and rotate the
calibration screw until the sensor shows the correct measured value
(obtain the actual correct value from another source that is known to
be accurate).
4.8.2. Nova5000 Automatic Zero

Calibration
The Nova5000 data logger is able to automatically calibrate the
sensor offset for all analog sensors accurately, quickly, and for every
new experiment conducted.
The calibration method is very simple. Whenever you plug in a sensor
the data logger checks to see if the selected sensor measures a value
within 2% of its zero value. If so, MultiLab sets that value as zero.
To enable this feature, make sure that the sensors are at their zero
values when you plug them in. To ensure the most accurate zero
value:
43
Shorten the Voltage sensor plugs
Leave the Current sensor plugs open
Cover the Light, Photogate, and Microphone sensors
Insert the pH sensor in a pH 7.0 solution
Unload the Force Transducer
Place the Accelerometer on a stationary surface
Place the Temperature probes in ice water
Place the Pressure sensor in a 1 ATM (1013 mb) chamber
4.8.3. pH Temperature Compensation

To compensate a pH sensor for temperature changes, plug the
temperature sensor into I/O-1, and the pH sensor in I/O-2. MultiLab
will then display the compensated pH value.
4.8.4. MultiLab Sensor Calibration

MultiLab enables you to calibrate any of the linear sensors manually.
This two point calibration method sets both the gain (slope) and offset
(intercept) of the sensors conversion function. The calibration
procedure affects MultiLab readings only.
1. On the Logger menu, tap Calibrate Sensors.
2. Select a sensor from the Choose Sensor drop-down menu and
tap OK.
3. Enter a distinct real value in each of the Real Value fields and the
corresponding measured values in each of the Measured Value
fields. The measured values are the values displayed by MultiLab
when measuring the two real values.
44
4. Tap OK. The calibrated sensor parameters will be saved in

MultiLab.
5. To reset to the default calibration for any sensor, repeat steps 1 to
3 above and tap Restore defaults.
4.8.5. Factory Calibration (No Calibration

Required)
All digital sensors that are essentially timers leave the factory fully
calibrated, and do not suffer from any accuracy degradation. An
example of such a sensor is the Sonic Ranger distance sensor, which
measures the time passed from the transmission of a sound pulse to
its echo reception.
4.9.
Defining New Sensors
MultiLab enables you to define additional custom sensors. This is a

useful tool for when you need the Nova5000 and MultiLab to
communicate with sensors from different sensor vendors, such as
Vernier.
Any additional sensor that you would like to connect to the Nova5000
must comply with the following restrictions:
45
The sensors output must be greater than or equal to 0V and less

than or equal to 5V. Remember that all sensors transform actual
data into electrical data, so the electrical output should remain
between 0 and 5 volts.
The sensor Transfer Function (sensor output voltage changes vs.
the sampled phenomenon changes) must be a linear Transfer
Function.
The sensor must have a code resistor in order to be automatically
identified. If the sensor does not have a code resistor, you will
have to work in 8 sensors mode and select the sensor manually.
To determine whether or not your sensor has a code resistor,
simply connect it to the Nova5000, open MultiLab and enter the
Setup Wizard. Verify that the sensor is displayed in the Sensors
tab window.
Refer to page 85 to learn how to add a code resistor to your custom
sensor.
To define a new sensor

1. On the Logger menu, select Define New Sensor to open the
Define New Sensor dialog box.
2. Tap Add new sensor.
46
3. Enter a sensor name and a sensor unit in the relevant fields.

4. Enter two calibration values (two real values and the
corresponding output voltages of the sensor).
5. Tap OK. Your sensor has now been defined and is saved in the
Sensor list in the Setup Wizard.
6. Tap Restore defaults to restore the default sensor list, and
remove the defined sensors from the Setup Wizard sensor list.
47
48
Chapter 5:
The Analysis Wizard
The Analysis Wizard will guide you through the extensive analysis
functions available in MultiLab. The analysis functions available are
mathematical and trigonometric functions.
5.1.
Using the Analysis Wizard
To apply an analysis function to an open data set:

1. First ensure the relevant graph is open in the main Graph window.
2. Use the graph cursors to select the data range to which you want
to apply the analysis.
3. Click the Analysis Wizard button
on the upper toolbar.
4. Select a relevant function from the Functions drop-down menu.

The functions formula is displayed underneath the Functions dropdown menu.
Chapter 5 The Analysis Wizard
49
5. If you've selected a data set, it will be highlighted in the G1 dropdown menu. However, you have the option of selecting a different
data set.
6. If the analysis function involves two data sets, select the second
data set from the G2 drop-down menu.
7. Where necessary, you have the option of entering a constant value
in the A, B or C fields relating to constants in the function equation.
8. Edit the name in the Name field (this is optional the default name
includes both the functions formula and the data set name).
9. Edit the Unit field (optional).
10. Click OK to apply the function.
5.2.
Analysis Functions List
This section includes a brief description of each of MultiLabs analysis

functions.
In the formulas below, G1 and G2 represent selected data sets, and A,
B and C are constants that you can enter. The constants default
value is 1.
Absolute
y = A BG1
Draws a line of the absolute values of a data set.
Add
y = AG1 + BG2
Draws a line of the addition of two data sets.
Arccosine
y = A arccos( BG1 )
Draws a line of the arccosine values of a data set (in
radians). Arccosine is the angle whose cosine is BG1 .
The argument BG1 must be between 1 and 1.
50
Arcsine
y = A arcsin( BG1 )
Draws a line of the arcsine values of a data set in
radians. Arcsine is the angle whose sine is BG1 . The
argument BG1 must be between 1 and 1.
Cosine
y = A cos( BG1 + C )
Draws a line of the cosine values of a data set. The
argument BG1 + C must be expressed in radians.
Delta Y
y = G1 G1 (t = 0)
Draws a line of the difference between the Ycoordinate of every point and Y-coordinate of the first
point. Use this function to move the data set along the
Y-axis so that the point will intersect the Y- axis at the
origin.
Derivative
yn =
y n +1 y n 1
1
, t =
sampling rate
2t
Draws a line of the slopes of every three consecutive

points of a data set. For high recording rates and
small t, this line may be very noisy, which is why
smoothing the data set is recommended before
applying the derivative function.
Divide
y=
AG1
BG 2
Draws a line of the division of two data sets

Envelope
(lower)
Lower envelope of G1 with tolerance of A points

Draws a line that connects the minimum values of a
data set. The tolerance defines the minimum distance
(in sampling points) between two minima, so that the
envelope function is able to ignore random noises.
51
Envelope
(upper)
Upper envelope of G1 with tolerance of A points

Draws a line that connects the maximum values of a
data set. The tolerance defines the minimum distance
(in sampling points) between two maxima, so that the
envelope function will be able to ignore random
noises.
Exp.
y = Ae BG1 + C
Draws a line of e raised to the power of a data set.
Fourier
transform
Discrete Fourier transform of G1.

Draws a line of the amplitudes of the harmonics of
Fourier transform vs. frequency.
Frequency
The frequency of G1 (minimum of A points in one

cycle).
Draws a line of the frequency of a periodic data set vs.
time. The constant A defines the minimum data points
in one cycle.
Integral
y = A + B G1 t
Draws a line in which each point is the discrete
integral of all the preceding points in a data set.
Kinetic energy
y=
1
A(G1 ) 2
2
Draws a line of the kinetic energy of a data set. The

argument G1 must be the velocity of the body, and the
constant C1 must be the mass of the body.
Linear
y = AG1 + B
Draws a line of a linear displacement of a data set.
This function is useful when you want to change the
point of origin of a data set.
52
Ln
y = A ln( BG1 )
Draws a line of the natural logarithm of a data set. The
argument BG1 must be positive.
Log
y = A log10 ( BG1 )
Draws a line of the logarithm of a data set to base 10.
The argument BG1 must be positive.
Multiply
y = AG1 BG2
Draws a line of the multiplication of two data sets
Quadratic
y = AG1 + BG1 + C
Draws a line of the quadratic form of a data set.
Reciprocal
(1/X)
y=
A
+C
G1 + B
Draws a line of the reciprocal values of a data set.

Sine
y = A sin( BG1 + C )
Draws a line of the sine values of a data set. The
Square (X2)
y = A( BG1 ) 2
Draws a line of the squares of a data set.
Square root
y = A BG1 + C
Draws a line of the square root values of a data set:
The argument C 2 G1 must be greater than or equal to
zero.
Subtract
y = AG1 BG2
Draws a line the subtraction of two data sets.
53
Tan
y = A tan( BG1 + C )
Draws a line of the tangent values of a data set. The
5.3.
The Timing Analysis Wizard
The Timing Analysis Wizard is an additional analysis tool, enabling

you to easily measure and calculate many types of time events,
including velocity and acceleration, with one or two photo gates.
Connect one photogate to input 1 of the Nova5000 or connect two
photogates to input 1 and input 2 of the Nova5000 and perform the
desired experiment. Then let the wizard guide you through the
analysis of this experiment.
With the Timing Analysis wizard you can measure sequences of time
events at gate one and/or at gate two, or time events between the two
gates. MultiLab can then calculate the velocity and acceleration of
these events. Special options make it easy to measure velocities in
collisions and the time period of a pendulum or any other oscillating
body.
The Timing Analysis wizard can handle multiple events. For example,
if a body crosses a photo gate several times, applying the wizard will
result in a series of measurements that match the number of
crossings.
5.3.1. Working with the Analysis Timing

Wizard
1. Display the data that you wish to analyze in the Graph window.
2. On the Tools menu, select Analysis > Timing Wizard. This
launches the Timing Wizard dialog box.
54
3. Select the Time, Velocity or Acceleration measurement.

4. Select the Timing Wizard Method tab.
5. Select one of the measuring methods: At one gate, Between gates

or Collision (two gates).
6. If required, enter the bodys width, or the distance between the
gates in cm in the Width text box.
7. Click OK to display the results.
5.3.2. Measuring Methods

The Timing Analysis Wizard offers you various methods of analyzing
the different measurements. In some measurements you will be asked
to enter the dimension of the moving body, or the distance between
the two photo gates to allow for the calculation of velocity and
acceleration.
55
The methods depend on the selected measurement:

Time
At one gate
takes the body to
beam)
Between gates
takes the body to
move from one photo
gate to the second
photo gate (between
blocking the second
infrared beams)
Pendulum
Measures the time
period of an oscillating
body (the time interval
between the first and
the third blockings of
the beam)
56
Velocity
At one gate
takes the body to
beam) and returns the
velocity.
bodys width.
Between gates
takes the body to
move from one photo
gate to the second
photo gate (between
blocking the second
infrared beams) and
returns the average
velocity.
distance between
gates.
Collisions
Measures the
crossing time
intervals at each gate
and returns the
corresponding
velocities.
bodies width (the
width of the two
57
bodies must be
identical).
Acceleration
At one gate
A card with two flags
must be attached to
the moving body (see
figure to the left). The
Timing wizard
measures the
crossing time
intervals of the two
flags and returns the
acceleration.
flags width.
Between gates
Measures the
crossing time at the
first gate, the time it
takes the body to
move from one gate
to the second gate
and the crossing time
at the second gate
and returns the
average acceleration.
bodys width.
58
5.3.3.
Time Schemes and Calculations
TIME MEASUREMENTS
At one gate
t2
t1
Result:
t = t 2 t 1
Between gates
t2
Input 1
t1
t3
Input 2
Result:
t4
t = t 3 t1
59
Pendulum (one gate)

t5
t2
t1
t3
t4
t = t 5 t1
Result:
VELOCITY
At one gate
t1
t2
Result:
60
v=
w
; t = t 2 t1
t
Between gates
Required parameters: L the distance between gates
t2
Input 1
t1
t3
Input 2
Result:
t4
v=
L
; t = t 3 t1
t
Collision (two gates)

Required parameters: w the bodies widths (must be identical)
t1
Input 1
t
t4
61
t5
Input 2
t7
t8
u1 =
w
w
; v1 =
t 4 t3
t 2 t1
u2 =
w
w
; v2 =
t6 t5
t8 t 7
Result:
ACCELERATION
At one gate
Required parameters: w the flags widths
t
t2
t1
Input 1
t3
t4
62
v1 =
Result:
w
w
; v2 =
t 2 t1
t 4 t3
t 4 + t 3 t 2 t1
2
v v
a= 2 1
t
t =
Between gates
t
t2
Input 1
t1
t3
Input 2
t4
v1 =
Result:
w
w
; v2 =
t 2 t1
t 4 t3
t 4 + t 3 t 2 t1
2
v 2 v1
a=
t
t =
63
5.3.4. Tips on using the Timing Wizard

Attach a flag to the moving body
When measuring the motion of a moving cart it is convenient to attach
a vertical flag to the cart (see picture below). You can mount a slotted
wooden block on the cart and insert the flag onto the slot, or use
masking tape to attach the flag to one side of the cart.
Use a double flag to measure acceleration at one gate. The width of

the two flags must be the same.
Use the cursors

Use the cursors to select the graph and data range to which you want
to apply the Timing wizard.
64
Time resolution
The time resolution depends on the sampling rate. Use the table
below to select a rate that meets your needs.
Rate
(samples per second)
Resolution
10
0.1 s
25
0.0 4s
50
0.0 2s
100
0.0 1s
500
2 ms
1000
1 ms
11200
0.1 ms
20800
0.05 ms
Use the Trigger

For fast events and high sampling rates use the Trigger tool (see
page 34) to initiate the data logging.
65
66
Chapter 6:
Working in Graph View
While working in Graph view, you have a variety of features at your
disposable for viewing and formatting the graph data.
6.1.
The Cursor
You can display up to two cursors on the graph simultaneously.

Use the first cursor to display individual data recording values, to
select a curve or to reveal the hidden Y-axis.
Use two cursors to display the difference between two coordinate
values or to select a range of data points.
To display the first cursor:
on
Select an individual data point on the graph or click 1st Cursor
the graph toolbar. You can drag the cursor with the stylus onto any
other point on the plot, or onto a different plot.
To display the second cursor:
Click 2nd Cursor
on the graph toolbar.
MultiLab will now display the difference between the two coordinate
values.
To remove the cursors:
Click 1st Cursor a second time.
To remove only the 2nd cursor:
Click 2nd Cursor a second time.
Chapter 6 Working in Graph View
67
Moving the cursor:

For finer cursor movements use the forward
buttons on the graph tool bar.
and backward
The coordinate values of the selected point will appear at the bottom
of the graph window.
6.2.
Autoscale/Graph Properties
6.2.1. Autoscale
Tap Autoscale
on the graph toolbar to view the full data display.
This is useful when you have customized the data scale, and then
wish to return to the full data display.
6.2.2. Manual Scaling

1. Tap Format graph
on the graph toolbar. Tap the Lines tab.
2. Select the axis you want to rescale from the Select plot drop-down
menu.
3. Uncheck the Autoscale check box and enter the desired values in
the Min and Max text boxes.
68
4. To restore the default scale values, tap Restore defaults.

5. Tap OK.
6. To restore the default scale value while in Graph view, tap
Autoscale
6.2.3. Selecting the X-axis

1. Tap Format graph
on the graph toolbar. Tap the X Axis tab.
2. Select the data you want to display on the X0axis from the X-axis
drop-down menu.
3. Tap OK.
6.2.4. Formatting the Graph Colors

To change the data lines color:
1. Tap Format graph
on the graph toolbar. Tap the Lines tab.
2. Select the plot you want to format from the Select plot drop-down
menu.
3. Tap the Color box to open the palette and select the desired
color.
69
4. Tap OK.
5. To restore the default plot color, return to the Lines tab, select the
relevant plot and tap Restore defaults.
6.3.
Zooming
6.3.1. Zooming into a Specific Area

1. Tap Zoom
on the graph toolbar and drag the stylus (or
mouse) cursor diagonally on the graph to select the area you want
to magnify. Remove the stylus or release the mouse to zoom in to
the selected area.
2. Tap Zoom a second time to disable the Zoom tool.
3. To revert to the default graph size, tap Autoscale
toolbar.
in the graph
Note: You can also use the Zoom tool by going to Logger >
Zoom in or Zoom out.
6.4.
Annotations
You can add annotations (notes) to the graph. An annotation is

always connected to a certain data point.
To view annotations:
On the Tools menu, select Show annotations (this option is usually
selected by default).
To hide all annotations:
On the Tools menu, unselect Show annotations to hide all current
annotations.
70
To add an annotation:
1. Place a cursor on the desired point to which you want to assign an
annotation.
on the graph toolbar to display the
2. Click Add new annotation
new annotation caption text box.
3. Enter the text and tap OK.
To move an annotation:
Tap Move annotation
on the graph toolbar and drag the
annotation text box to the desired location.
To delete an annotation:
Go to Logger > Delete annotation and the last selected annotation
will be deleted.
6.5.
Adding a Graph to the Project
MultiLab displays new data in the graph window every time you start a
new recording. If you want to save a graph that you created to your
project, or to update a saved graph with changes you made, use the
Add to project tool:
Tap Add to project
6.6.
Smoothing
The Smoothing tool is very useful in reducing random noises,

especially if you want to apply any analysis functions to the data. The
smoothing process replaces every data point with the average of its
neighboring points.
1. Use the cursor to select the graph that you want to smooth.
2. Tap More smoothing
3. You can repeat the procedure to further smooth the data.

4. Tap Less smoothing
to reduce the amount of smoothing.
71
6.7.
Prediction Tool
The Prediction tool enables you to draw predictions directly on the

graph, prior to displaying the real data.
1. Make sure you are in Graph view and tap Run on the main toolbar
to start recording data.
on the graph toolbar to freeze the graph.
2. Tap Pause/Continue
The data recording continues, but the plotting of data on the graph
is paused.
3. Tap Add prediction
on the graph toolbar to enable the Add
prediction tool. Tap the points on the graph where you predict the
plot will continue. Each point you add to the graph will be
connected by a straight line. By tapping Add prediction again, you
can add a second set of predictions, and so on.
4. Tap Pause/Continue
a second time to resume live data
display and to compare your predictions with the real data.
5. Tap Erase prediction
on the graph toolbar to enable the
Erase prediction tool. You may erase a set of predictions by
clicking on any one of the points within a series.
6.8.
Stretch/Compress Axis Tool
Tap and drag the cursor onto one of the graph axes in order to stretch
or compress the axis scale. Drag the cursor to the desired location.
Repeat the procedure for the other axis if necessary.
Tap Autoscale
72
to restore the scale to default.
Chapter 7:
Additional Tool Menu
Options
7.1.
Unit Settings
Change the units and number format of the graph currently open in
MultiLab.
1. On the Tools menu, select Unit Settings.
2. In the Unit Settings dialog box, choose the plot you want to
format from the Select plot drop-down menu.
3. Select the prefix option you want to use.

4. Select the desired number of decimal places.
5. To display numbers in scientific format, check the Scientific check
box.
6. Tap OK.
Chapter 7 Additional Tool Menu Items
73
7.2.
Graph Title
You are able to edit the title of the graph currently open in the Graph
view:
1. On the Tools menu, select Graph Title.
2. In the Graph Title dialog box, enter the new title to be assigned to
the graph currently opened.
3. Click OK.
7.3.
Crop
The Crop tool enables you to trim the edges of a data set. Use it to
remove unwanted data or to apply manual curve fitting to a desired
range of data points.
The time scale of the trimmed data is shifted so that it will start at
t = 0.
After applying the Crop tool, the trimmed data set replaces the original
set on the graph display and a new icon is added to the Data Map
under cropped data.
To trim all data up to a point

Position a cursor on the data point and on the Tools menu, select
Crop.
To trim all data outside a selected range

Use the cursors to select the range you want to keep.
On the Tools menu, select Crop.
74
Chapter 7 Additional Tool Menu Items
Chapter 8:
The Workbook
8.1.
Working with the Workbook

Feature
The Workbook is an online library of experiment manuals called

worksheets that appear in Web-page format. Each worksheet includes
an experiment template that automatically configures the MultiLab at
the push of a button. To begin recording, all you need to do is tap
Run.
Every time you run an experiment from a worksheet, MultiLab opens a
new project file with the same predefined setup.
You can use Fourier-produced worksheets, or create your own. You
can also modify Fouriers existing worksheets to your own
specifications.
8.2.
Opening a Worksheet
1. On the Tools menu, select Workbook, then select Open

worksheet from the Workbook menu.
2. Navigate to the folder in which the worksheet is stored.
3. Tap the file name to open the worksheet.
Chapter 8 The Workbook
75
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and use the scroll bar, hyperlinks
and the Back and Forward buttons to navigate throughout the
document.
5. Tap Launch to configure MultiLab.
6. Close the Worksheet to return to MultiLab.
7. Tap Run on the main toolbar to begin recording data.
8.3.
Create your own Worksheet
Creating a worksheet consist of two steps. First, create an HTML

document using your HTML editor (for example, Nova5000s
TextMaker).
This file should include the Lab manual and the experiment
instructions. The second step is to use the MultiLab software to create
a configuration file, which is a file that will store the specific settings
you wish to define for the experiment. These include the MultiLab
sensor setup, sampling rate, graph format, and so on.
Creating an HTML document

1. Open TextMaker on the Nova5000.
2. In the File menu, tap New.
3. Create your worksheet, including all necessary content for
experiment instruction.
4. Go to File > Save as and select HTML from the File type dropdown menu.
5. Navigate to My Nova\Program Files\Fourier Systems\MultiLab
CE\Experiment documents and tap Save.
Create a Web page from an existing Word

document
1. Open the existing file in Word (from your PC).
2. In the File menu, tap Save as Web Page. Save the document to
the PC desktop.
76
3. Copy the document to the following location on the Nova5000:

My Nova\Program Files\Fourier Systems\MultiLab
CE\Experiment documents
Create a configuration file

1. Go to Tools > Workbook > Create workbook.
2. Select the file you want to open from the Open dialog box and tap
OK.
3. Click Enter workbook settings to open the Setup Wizard.
4. Use the setup wizard to preset MultiLab just as with the normal
setup process.
5. On the Sensors tab, tap X-axis display properties to enter the Xaxis formatting.
6. When youve finished entering the settings, tap OK to update the
worksheet.
77
78
Chapter 9:
Running the Nova5000
Logger from a PC
The Nova5000 can also be connected directly to your PC and used as
a standalone data logger via the MultiLab for PC software. Using the
Nova5000 in this way lets you benefit from the full range of MultiLab
functionality, not all of which is available in the lighter MultiLab CE
version.
You will be able to perform more extensive analysis, graphing and
video activities as well as many other features while running the
Nova5000 data logger via MultiLab for PC.
To run the Nova5000 data logger from your PC:
1. Install MultiLab 1.4.11 or higher on your PC. This version includes
the necessary software support and drivers to detect the
Nova5000 when connected to the PC.
Install MultiLab from your Nova5000 software CD included with
your Nova5000 packaging. Follow the installation instructions
provided in the MultiLab PC user guide.
2. On the Nova5000, open the Control Panel and open the Logger
Options icon
3. The Logger Options dialog box will open. Tap the Run logger
from PC button and tap OK.
4. You will be prompted to reset the Nova5000 for the changes to
take affect. Tap OK. When the Nova5000 OS loads again it will be
ready to work with the MultiLab for PC software.
5. Using the Nova5000 USB sync cable, connect the Nova5000 to
your PCs USB port.
6. Launch MultiLab from your PC. Go to Logger > Com Setup,
select the Nova communication option and click Try to connect.
Chapter 9 Running the Nova5000 Logger from the PC
79
7. MultiLab will then detect the Nova5000. The status pane in the
lower left of the MultiLab window will indicate Nova was detected.
8. The Download and Setup Wizard icons in the MultiLab main
toolbar will change to indicate that the PC is communicating with
the Nova5000, rather than another Fourier data logger:
9. The Nova5000 is now ready for full control by the MultiLab for PC.
Enter the Setup Wizard to configure the sensor setup and then
run the Nova5000 to start recording data.
10. To return the Nova5000 to normal use of the MultiLab CE version,
open the Logger Options from the Control Panel and tap the Run
logger from Nova5000 button.
Note: Opening MultiLab CE will temporarily suspend the USB
connection between MultiLab PC and the Nova5000.
However, closing MultiLab CE will automatically resume this
connection.
Note: To use ActiveSync again after running the Nova5000
data logger from your PC, you must return to Run logger
from Nova5000 mode.
80
Chapter 9 Running the Nova5000 Logger from the PC
Appendix A:
Sensors Supported by the
Nova5000
The table below provides an up-to-date list of Fourier Systems
probeware. These sensors are fully compatible with the Nova5000
and are used together with the MultiLab software for data collection
and analysis.
Please contact Fourier Systems for more information regarding these
sensors.
Compatible Fourier Systems Sensors

Part
Number
Sensor Name
Range
DT138
Acceleration
63 m/s2
AC012
Anemometer
0-1000 km/h
o
Physics
Biology
Chemistry
9
9
9
DT031
Angular Position
0-360
DT037
Breathing
L/620 min
DT039
CO2 Gas Sensor
0-5000 ppm
DT185
Colorimeter
0-100%
DT035
Conductivity
0-20 mS
DT110/111
Control Switch
Open/Close
DT005
Current
2.5 A
DT006
Current
250 mA
DT007
Current
0-20 mA
Distance
0.4-2 m,
(dual range)
0.4-10 m
DT187
Linear Distance
0.4-6 m
DT189
ECG
0-5 V
DT120
Force
10N, 50N
DT020-1
9
9
9
9
Appendix A Sensors Supported by the Nova5000
81
Part
Number
Sensor Name
Range
DT116
Geiger-Muller
Counter
0-1024 bq
DT155
Heart Rate
0-200 bps
DT014
Humidity
0-100%
0-100%
DT041
Humidity
(high accuracy)
Physics
Biology
DT010
Light
0-130 klx
DT009
Light
0-6.6 lx
DT009-3
Light
0-300 lx
DT156
Magnetic Field
0.2 mT,
10 mT
DT008
Microphone
2.5 V
DT114A
Oxygen
DT016
pH
0-14 pH
DT137
Photo Gate
0-5 V
DT015-2
Pressure
0-10 kPa
DT015-1
Pressure
0-700 kPa
DT015
Pressure
160-1150
mbar
AC013
Rain Collector
0-200 mm
DT148
Rotary Motion
128
DT122
Smart Pulley
0-5 m/s
DT027
Temperature
-200
400oC
DT029
Temperature
-25 110oC
DT026
DT025
DT188
Temperature
Thermocouple K
Temperature linear
Chemistry
0-25 %,
0-14 ppm
9
9
9
9
0 750 C
0 1250 C
-10 110 C
DT068
Temperature DHG
-10 110 C
DT004
Voltage
50 mV
DT003
Voltage
0-5 V
82 Appendix A Sensors Supported by the Nova5000
Part
Number
Sensor Name
Range
Physics
DT002
Voltage
2.5 V
DT001
Voltage
25 V
Biology
Chemistry
Compatible Vernier Sensors

This table also includes the necessary voltage and real values for
defining these sensors for use in MultiLab.
Sensor Name
Min
Output
Voltage
Min Real
Value
Max
Output
Voltage
Max Real
Value
Accelerometer -- 3 axis
-51.6
63.0
Accelerometer -- Low g
-51.8
62.9
Barometer
24.2
35.7
Barometer
0.8
1.2
Barometer
614.8
907.4
Barometer
819.5
1209.5
CO2
0.0
10000.0
Colorimeter
0.0
142.9
Current
0.6
-11.9
Differential Voltage
6.3
-6.3
Dissolved Oxygen
-0.3
16.0
Dual Range Force
12.3
-12.3
Dual Range Force
61.3
-61.3
Flow Rate
0.0
5.0
Force Plate
-1000.0
-445.0
Force Plate
-250.0
1000.0
Gas Pressure
0.0
232.4
Gas Pressure
0.0
2.3
Gas Pressure
0.0
1743.2
Light Sensor
0.0
770.0
Light Sensor
0.0
8460.0
Light Sensor
0.0
192120.0
Appendix A Sensors Supported by the Nova5000
83
Sensor Name
Min
Output
Voltage
Min Real
Value
Max
Output
Voltage
Max Real
Value
Magnetic Field
-80.6
80.6
Magnetic Field
-3.2
4.8
Magnetic Field
-8.1
8.1
Magnetic Field
-0.3
0.5
ORP
-559.8
1774.6
pH
13.7
-5.5
Relative Humidity
-23.8
140.7
Salinity
0.0
81.5
Thermocouple
-188.9
1393.0
UVA
0.0
19700.0
UVB
0.0
19700.0
X-Long Temperature
-53.1
238.6
X-Long Temperature
-63.5
461.5
Direct Connect
Temperature
-17.8
260.0
84 Appendix A Sensors Supported by the Nova5000
Appendix B:
Adding a Code Resistor to a
Custom Sensor
In order for the Nova5000 to automatically identify a sensor, it must
have a code resistor. The figure below shows the Nova5000 input
socket configuration.
You must connect the resistor between the Auto recognition
resistance input and the GND input.
Mini DIN female - Nova5000 panel view
When you define a custom sensor in MultiLab you must choose one
sensor from the list provided. Note its position in the list and look in
the table below to find the resistance.
Appendix B Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor 85
Auto recognition resistors

Position in
Define sensor
dialog box
drop-down
menu
Resistance (k)
Max Resistance
(k)
Min Resistance
(k)
372
384.1
360.9
410
424.8
396.5
455
472.9
437.8
508
530.9
486.6
573
601.9
544.8
653
691.1
615.6
754
806.5
703.4
888
961.9
814.6
1071
1183.0
959.2
10
1337
1524.4
1151.2
86 Appendix B Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor
Appendix C:
Nova5000 Data Logger
Specifications
Input
Auto ID mode:
Up to 4 simultaneous analog inputs
Or
4 digital inputs with automatic sensor identification
8-input (manual) mode:
Up to 8 simultaneous analog inputs
Or
Up to 4 simultaneous digital inputs and 4 analog inputs
Outputs
4 Digital Control Outputs
Sampling
Capacity: Up to 100,000 Samples
Analog sampling rate: From 1 sample/hour to 20,800 samples/sec
Digital sampling rate: >200 kHz
Resolution
12-bit (4096 levels)
Appendix C Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications
87
Timer Module
Time velocity and acceleration
Range: 0.0014s to 6.5535s
Resolution: 0.1mS
Card width: 0 to 59mm
Distance between gates: 0 to 99cm
Features
Standalone operation no PC needed
Automatic or manual sensor identification
Saving and loading of last setup
Trigger: Programmable or manual
Automatic calibration of offset sensors
Built-in clock and calendar that keeps track of time and date for
each data recording
Event recording
Up to 10 user defined sensors
88
Appendix C Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications

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MultiLab Window Layout

MultiLab Main Toolbar

MultiLab Graph Toolbar

Meters View Toolbar

Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000

3.1. Collecting Data

3.2. Viewing Data

3.3. Opening and Downloading Data Sets

3.4. Analyzing the Data

3.6. Exporting/Importing CSV Files

Importing CSV Files

Resetting the Logger

Configuring Sensors in MultiLab

4.1. Choosing the Right Setup

4.2. Programming Rules and Limitations

Auto Detect Sensors

Setting the Zero Point of a Sensor

Averaging Sensor Readings

The Timing Wizard

4.8. Calibrating Sensors

Defining New Sensors

The Analysis Wizard

Using the Analysis Wizard

Analysis Functions List

5.3. The Timing Analysis Wizard

Working in Graph View

6.2. Autoscale/Graph Properties

Adding a Graph to the Project

Stretch/Compress Axis Tool

Additional Tool Menu Options

Working with the Workbook Feature

Create your own Worksheet

Running the Nova5000 Logger from a PC

Sensors Supported by the Nova5000

Adding a Code Resistor to a Custom Sensor

Nova5000 Data Logger Specifications

Toll-free telephone (USA only): 1-866-771-NOVA

MultiLab Window Layout

The MultiLab interface is simple and innovative. You can switch

Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab

Graph view (the default view when opening MultiLab)

Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab

Main Window Layout

Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab

Status and Title Bars

MultiLab Main Toolbar

Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab

MultiLab Graph Toolbar

Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab

Meters View Toolbar

The Meters view toolbar is visible when operating in Meters view.

button. The toolbar buttons are as

Chapter 1 Introduction to MultiLab

To connect a sensor to the Nova5000 use one of the mini-din cables

Chapter 2 Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000

Connecting more than four sensors

Using four splitter cables

Chapter 2 Connecting Sensors to the Nova5000

Connecting Vernier sensors