ABSTRACT
Computers are an essential feature of most instrumentation systems because of their ability to supervise the collection of data and allow information to be processed, stored, and displayed. Many modern instruments are capable of providing a remote user with access to measurement information via standard computer networks. The actual implementation of such systems will depend on the application. Many commercially produced instruments such as spectrophotometers or digital storage oscilloscopes are themselves integrated computer-based measurement systems. The simplest form of a computer is based around the single-board computer which contains a microprocessor, memory, and interfaces for communicating with other electronic systems. The main advantage of bus-based systems is that they help one build a complex computerized system using standard cards.
