The project involves the development of computer software for the control of a motorized high precision X-Y positioning system for fast data acquisition using IEEE-488 communication standard.
Currently the system is utilized in laser ultrasonics experiments and is used to accurately position a Nd:YAG pulse laser for generation of surface acoustic waves in various NDE testing.
A software program is developed to control the laser head with precision motors on an X-Y plot (axis). The digital oscilloscope is triggered by the laser pulse to start the data acquisition. The computer controlled motorized X-Y positioning system allows for accurate measurement of the distance between the laser pulse and the detection transducer. The software under development incorporates data acquisition communication routines with various instruments, through the IEEE-488, with data display and storage.