Astro-Med Dash 8 Field Data Acquisition Recorder

The Astro-Med DASH8 is a versatile, portable data acquisition system designed for capturing and analyzing dynamic signals in various environments. This system offers a combination of real-time chart recording and digital data acquisition capabilities, making it suitable for applications ranging from field testing to laboratory analysis. The DASH8 series, including models like the DASH8N and DASH8U, provides users with the flexibility to configure input modules based on specific measurement needs. Its design emphasizes ease of use, portability, and robust performance for demanding applications.

### Technical Specifications

* **Number of Channels:** 8 analog input channels.
* **Data Acquisition Sampling Rate:**
* Up to 20 kHz per channel (DASH8N, DASH8U).
* Up to 200 kHz per channel (DASH8XE).
* Optional 4-channel scope card for DASH8XE with sample rates up to 10 MHz per channel or 5 MHz per channel.
* **Bandwidth:**
* DC to 20 kHz (real-time response).
* DC to 25 kHz (real-time response).
* 2 kHz (-3dB) for specific input types (e.g., DASH 8N Voltage, DASH 8U Voltage, DASH 8U DC Bridge).
* 10 Hz (-3dB) for Thermocouple inputs on DASH 8U.
* **ADC Resolution:** 16-bit.
* **Chart Recording:**
* 8½ inch chart width.
* 200 dots/inch print-head resolution.
* Chart speeds selectable from 1 mm/hour to 200 mm/sec or 1 mm/min to 100 mm/sec.
* Prints real-time and post-capture data.
* **Data Storage:**
* Internal 8 GB hard drive for data capture.
* Dedicated 36 GB hard drive for data capture (DASH8XE).
* Dedicated 73 GB hard drive (DASH8XE).
* 100 MB ZIP® drive for data transfer.
* **Display:**
* 10.4″ color monitor for real-time viewing and playback.
* 15-inch touch screen for data viewing, review, and analysis (DASH8XE).
* **Triggering:** Versatile triggering options including waveforms, event pattern, manual pushbutton, external source, specific time, or periodic triggers.
* **Power:** Internal battery, AC operation, and 12 VDC operation.
* **Dimensions and Weight:**
* Weighs only 28 lbs including internal battery (DASH 8).
* Less than 20 lbs (DASH8N).
* Weight 32.00 lbs (DASH8).

### Electrical Specifications

* **Input Types and Ranges:**
* **DASH8N:**
* Isolated inputs up to 250 VRMS.
* Measuring range: 50 mV full scale to 500 V full scale.
* UL Rated Input: 250 Vrms.
* **DASH8U (Universal Inputs):**
* Voltage Inputs: Isolated single-ended, isolated differential. Absolute Maximum Input: 40 V. Measuring Range: Single-ended: 500 mV to 40 V full scale; Differential: 5 mV to 500 mV full scale.
* Thermocouple Inputs (J, K, E, T): Absolute Maximum Input: 40 V. Measuring Range: Type J: 0°C to 760°C; Type K: 0°C to 1370°C; Type T: -160°C to 400°C; Type E: -100°C to 1000°C. Accuracy: ±0.5% of measurement +1°C.
* DC Bridge Inputs: Isolated full bridge. Absolute Maximum Input: 40 V. Excitation: Isolated 10V at 30 mA. Measuring Range: Differential: 5mV to 500 mV full scale.
* Optional modules for RTD, isolated high voltage, and frequency to voltage.
* **Isolation:** 250 Vrms (between iso-commons and chassis) for DASH8U inputs.
* **Power Requirements:** 115/230 V, 50/60 Hz.

### Interfaces

* **Data Transfer:**
* 100 MB ZIP® drive.
* Ethernet interface for data transfer.
* SCSI port for data transfer.
* USB port for external storage devices (CD-RW, DiskOnKeyR) (DASH8XE).
* 10/100/21 BaseT Ethernet interface (DASH8XE).
* **External Control:** Utility Port for start/stop, remote drive, trigger, and events.

### Physical Characteristics

* **Construction:** Rugged, compact, and portable design.
* **Operating Temperature:** 5 to 40 degrees C.
* **Non-Operating Temperature:** -15 to 60 degrees C.
* **Operating Humidity:** 10% to 95%, non-condensing.

### Software and Compatibility

* **PC-Based Software:**
* AstroVIEW C for Windows (data review and analysis).
* AstroSET (offline setup program).
* AstroVIEW X (for DASH8XE).
* **Operating System Compatibility:** Windows 95/98/ME, Windows NT/2000 (for AstroVIEW C).

### Product Variants and Options

* **DASH8N:** Offers isolated inputs up to 250 VRMS with built-in offset adjustment.
* **DASH8U:** Features flexible universal inputs, accommodating various signal types without external conditioning, and supports optional input modules.
* **DASH8XE:** Enhanced model with higher sampling rates (up to 200 kHz/channel), larger hard drive (36 GB or 73 GB), optional 4-channel scope card, and a 15-inch touchscreen display.
* **Optional Accessories:**
* BP-80 Battery Pack.
* CC-80 Carrying Case.
* Optional 8.5-inch wide thermal array strip chart recorder (for DASH8XE).

### Important Considerations

* The Astro-Med DASH8 series, including models like the DASH8N and DASH8U, have been discontinued by the manufacturer. However, reconditioned units may be available from third-party suppliers.
* When sourcing reconditioned equipment, it is advisable to verify the warranty and support provided by the seller, as the original manufacturer’s warranty may not apply.

Why Choose Aumictech for Astro-Med DASH8?
At Aumictech, we specialize in sourcing and providing high-quality legacy and current-generation data acquisition systems. Whether you need robust, field-ready portable recorders for dynamic signal capture, versatile input configurations for diverse sensor types, or reliable long-term data storage solutions, our team ensures that the Astro-Med DASH8 series delivers maximum performance and data integrity for your critical applications.