Abstract: A bridge board for enhancing functionality on a Data Acquisition Device (DAD). The bridge board is configured to be in data communication with the DAD, and the DAD configured to be selectively fired upon receipt of firing instructions from the bridge board. When fired, the DAD is configured to acquire and store DAD data, if DAD data is available for acquisition. In preferred embodiments, the bridge board is configured to allow the DAD to communicate with a controller via serial communication using a 3-wire cable. The bridge board is further configured to generate enhanced DAD data, the enhanced DAD data comprising enhancements made by the bridge board to DAD data received by the bridge board from the DAD. The bridge board thus enables the controller to acquire data from multiple types of DAD, different both in genus and in species, and different in levels of functionality and capability.

Abstract: A controller for supervising remote Data Acquisition Devices (DADs), each via a corresponding bridge board communicatively coupled thereto, wherein selected DADs have non-identical performance specifications. The controller comprises a micro-computer configured to be in network data communication with a plurality of bridge boards. Each bridge board is configured to communicate data with the micro-computer via a selected network communications medium that in preferred embodiments comprises a 3-wire cable. The micro-computer is further configured to selectively send firing instructions to at least three bridge boards concurrently.

Abstract: An improved system and method for providing a dielectric monitor which allows the measurement of the dielectric constant of a conductive material. The capability to accurately and efficiently measure the dielectric constant in soil allows the moisture content of the soil to be accurately determined. The preferred embodiment teaches a sensor that has the ability to compensate for some level of variable conductivity. Alternate embodiments are applicable to areas other than soil moisture measurement.

Abstract: An improved system and method for providing a dielectric monitor which allows the measurement of the dielectric constant of a conductive material. The capability to accurately and efficiently measure the dielectric constant in soil allows the moisture content of the soil to be accurately determined. The preferred embodiment teaches a sensor that has the ability to compensate for some level of variable conductivity. Alternate embodiments are applicable to areas other than soil moisture measurement.

Abstract: The current augmentation method is for use with a computer powered peripheral subsystem including a dynamic load, the dynamic load requiring greater power, from time to time, than the specified power available from the computer and specified interconnect bus or interface. This method includes use of a power node supplying power as necessary from the battery to the dynamic load, such that the varying dynamic load does not exceed the specified power available from the computer and interconnect bus. The method includes monitoring the load current, and injecting current into the power node to augment the current drive capability of the computer and peripheral bus. Preferably, the injecting is performed selectively based upon the result of the monitoring, e.g. only when the sensed load current is approaching a defined threshold level. Further, battery charging is performed only when it is determined that no current is being drawn through the battery to avoid distorting the voltage reading.

Abstract: A peak detector employing an integrator, a D.C. tracking circuit and a zero-crossing detection circuit produces a logic signal indicating the occurrence of a peak of an input voltage signal. Hysteresis in the zero-crossing detection circuit and integration of the input voltage signal improves the noise rejection of the peak detector.