A common XBT/personal computer interface

The concept of a virtual instrument is explored. The problem of how to move data between a host computer and the specialized interface is discussed. If use with the greatest variety of host computers is a goal, then RS-232 appears to be the interconnection method of choice. These ideas are realized in an improved, flexible design for a digital interface to an expendable bathythermograph (XBT) is reported. It makes use of the simplified serial communications and hardware features of RS-232 parts on a variety of personal computers. This design philosophy is shown to be applicable to other marine instrumentation needs. >