Course detail

Computers in Experiments

FSI-TPE Acad. year: 2027/2028 Winter semester

The main emphasis is placed on hardware issues associated with using a computer as a control element of experimental setups, A/D and D/A converters, standard interfaces and buses (GPIB, USB, RS-232, Ethernet), and software support in LabVIEW environment. The course combines introductory practical laboratory exercises with independent project work and final presentations.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

2

Supervisor

Ing. Zdeněk Nováček, Ph.D.

Department

Institute of Physical Engineering

Entry knowledge

Basic knowledge of numerical systems (decimal, binary, hexadecimal). Basics of programming in any programming language and a basic overview of computer hardware. The course requires no formal prerequisites.

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Type of completion: Graded credit (obtaining credits based on meeting ongoing and final requirements).

Assessment criteria:

  • Graded lab report (laboratory task): 25% of the final grade.
  • Continuous test (theoretical and practical verification of knowledge): 25% of the final grade.
  • Independent project and final presentation: 50% of the final grade.

The method for making up missed classes is determined by the instructor (typically through a makeup measurement).

Aims

To acquaint students with the fundamentals of computer-supported automated measurement.

To teach students how to connect measuring instruments to a computer via standard interfaces and control them using programming tools (LabVIEW).

To gain practical skills in signal processing (sound card, NI measurement modules), virtual instrument design, and solving a comprehensive independent project.

Study aids

Author's presentations and supplementary materials for lectures and laboratory sessions.

The study programmes with the given course

Programme N-FIN-P: Physical Engineering and Nanotechnology, Master's, compulsory

Programme N-PMO-P: Precise Mechanics and Optics, Master's, compulsory

Type of course unit

 

Lecture

13 hours, optionally

Syllabus


  • Weeks 1–4: General principles of computer-controlled experiments, architecture of measurement setups. Hardware resources: A/D and D/A converters, counters, timers, digital I/O. Communication buses and interfaces (RS-232, USB, GPIB, Ethernet).

  • Weeks 5–7: Advanced theoretical aspects of signal processing, DAQ cards, and communication protocols in practice. Assignment of independent projects.

  • Weeks 8–10: Individual consultations on the progress of independent projects (without standard lectures).

  • Weeks 11–12: Final presentations and mutual defense of students' projects (replacing traditional lecture blocks).

Computer-assisted exercise

13 hours, compulsory

Syllabus


  • Weeks 1–4: Introduction to the LabVIEW environment. Practical exercises: interface programming, basics of working with measurement cards and digital circuits.

  • Weeks 5–7: Independent laboratory tasks with continuous assessment:



  1. Spectral analysis of the audio signal.

  2. Measurement of the current-voltage characteristic of a photodiode (or curve fitting – capacitor charging).

  3. Working with digital signals and I/O ports.



  • Continuous assessment (lab report and test).

  • Weeks 8–10: Independent practical work on selected laboratory projects (e.g., strain gauge scale, PID control, image analysis, resonance measurement, instrument communication).

  • Weeks 11–12: Completion of measurements, preparation of outputs, and presentation of project results.