The List of Data Acquisition Software Packages [UPDATED 2024]

What is data acquisition (DAQ) software

Data acquisition software (or DAQ software) is a type of computer software designed to collect, analyze, and record data from various sensors, instruments, or devices. It facilitates the process of capturing and processing data in real-time or at specified intervals.

Data acquisition software is commonly used in scientific research, industrial automation, engineering, and other fields where data collection and analysis are essential. It serves as a vital tool for monitoring and controlling systems, conducting experiments, and making informed decisions based on acquired data.

Data acquisition software is usually part of the entire data acquisition system and can be used for anything from collecting data to signal processing and data analysis. It usually requires instrumentation with analog-to-digital converters (DAQ hardware) that convert analog signals into digital data for storing, visualization, and processing.

Key functions of data acquisition software

Data acquisition software includes the following key functions:

1. Data Collection: The software enables the capture of data from different sources, such as sensors, probes, cameras, or other measurement devices. It can acquire data in various formats, including analog signals, digital inputs/outputs, or serial communication protocols.

2. Real-time Monitoring: Data acquisition software provides real-time visualization and monitoring of acquired data. It allows users to view measurements, trends, or graphical representations of the data as it is being collected. This feature aids in observing system behavior and detecting any anomalies or trends.

3. Signal Conditioning: The software may offer signal conditioning capabilities, such as filtering, amplification, or calibration, to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the acquired data. This ensures that the collected signals are properly conditioned for subsequent analysis.

4. Data Logging: Data acquisition software can record acquired data in a structured format, typically in a database or file system. This enables users to review and analyze the data at a later stage, compare different datasets, or perform post-processing and statistical analysis.

5. Control and Automation: In some cases, data acquisition software also includes control and automation features. It allows users to interact with connected devices, set up triggers or alarms based on specific conditions, and execute predefined actions based on acquired data.

6. Integration and Compatibility: Data acquisition software often supports integration with external systems or software tools. This may include connectivity with specialized analysis software, communication protocols, or data exchange with other applications.

Overall, data acquisition software simplifies the process of data collection, enables real-time monitoring, and provides tools for analysis and decision-making based on acquired data. It enhances efficiency, accuracy, and reliability in data acquisition and facilitates a wide range of applications across different industries.

The list of most popular data acquisition software packages

There are several popular data acquisition software packages available in the market, each with its own strengths and features. Here are a few widely recognized and commonly used data acquisition software packages:

* Certain advanced analysis modules of the software might be available for additional payment

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DewesoftX data acquisition software

DewesoftX is a powerful data acquisition and analysis software developed by Dewesoft, a leading provider of measurement and test solutions. It is commonly used in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, energy, research, and many others.

DewesoftX offers comprehensive functionality for data acquisition, visualization, analysis, and reporting. It supports Dewesoft data acquisition hardware devices, enabling users to connect and synchronize multiple sensors and instruments for simultaneous data recording. The software is known for its flexibility and compatibility with various sensor technologies, making it suitable for diverse measurement applications. 

DewesoftX allows analyzing data in 3 physical domains: 

• Time domain,

• Frequency domain, and 

• Rotational domain. 

One of the notable features of DewesoftX is its intuitive and user-friendly interface. It provides a visually appealing and customizable workspace, allowing users to create personalized screens and configure the software to their specific needs. The software supports real-time visualization of acquired data, providing live graphs, gauges, meters, and other visual elements to monitor measurements as they are being recorded.

DewesoftX also offers advanced signal processing capabilities. It provides a wide range of mathematical functions, signal processing tools, and statistical analysis options to explore, manipulate, and extract meaningful information from acquired data. Users can perform:

• Various math calculations and custom formulas

• Statistics

• Filtering

• FFT analysis

• Order analysis

• Torsional and rotational vibration

• Rotor balancing

• Orbit analysis

• Modal testing and analysis

• Shock Response Spectrum (SRS)

• Electrical power analysis and power quality analysis

• Fatigue analysis

• Sine-reduction testing

• Sound Level

• Octave band analysis

• Sound power analysis

• Sound intensity analysis

• Sound quality analysis

• Combustion Engine analysis

• Reference curves

• Cepstrum

• Envelope detection

• and others…

All calculations can be performed either online or applied in post-processing. Software also allows to generate PDF and Word reports based on their analysis results.

Furthermore, DewesoftX supports integration with other software and systems, enabling seamless data exchange and compatibility with third-party tools via standard data protocols and interfaces. It also provides support for various file formats, allowing users to import and export data in different formats for further processing or sharing with colleagues.

Overall, DewesoftX is a versatile and comprehensive software solution for data acquisition and analysis, offering powerful features, flexibility, and ease of use. It empowers engineers, researchers, and scientists to perform complex measurements, gain insights from data, and make informed decisions in their respective fields.

DewesoftX also received international rewards, including the Software Innovation of the Year award awarded by Automotive Testing International magazine:

NI LabView software

LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) is a software platform developed by National Instruments (NI) that is widely used for data acquisition, instrument control, and industrial automation. It provides a graphical programming environment that allows users to create virtual instruments and applications for measurement and control systems.

LabVIEW uses a graphical programming language called G (short for "G-language") where users can drag and drop functional blocks, known as virtual instruments (VIs), onto a block diagram. These VIs represent various functions and operations, such as data acquisition, signal processing, analysis, and visualization. Users can then wire connections between the blocks to define the flow of data and control within their application.

One of the key advantages of LabVIEW is its versatility and compatibility with a wide range of hardware devices. It supports numerous data acquisition devices, sensors, measurement instruments, and control systems, allowing users to interface and communicate with different hardware components seamlessly. LabVIEW also provides extensive libraries and drivers to facilitate integration with various devices and protocols.

LabVIEW offers powerful tools for data acquisition, analysis, and visualization. Users can acquire and process data from multiple channels simultaneously, apply advanced signal processing algorithms, perform statistical analysis, and generate custom graphical displays for real-time monitoring. The software also includes a variety of built-in functions and mathematical operations that simplify complex tasks and accelerate development time.

In addition, LabVIEW supports multi-platform development, enabling users to create applications that can run on different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It also provides options for deploying applications to embedded systems, FPGA-based hardware, and real-time targets, expanding its application possibilities to a wide range of industries and domains.

LabVIEW has gained popularity in various fields, such as research, engineering, manufacturing, and academia, due to its ease of use, extensive functionality, and flexibility. It has a large community of users and developers who contribute to its ecosystem by sharing knowledge, creating custom libraries, and providing support.

Overall, LabVIEW is a powerful software platform that allows users to develop sophisticated measurement and control applications using a graphical programming approach. It offers a comprehensive set of tools, extensive hardware compatibility, and cross-platform capabilities, making it a popular choice for engineers, scientists, and researchers working in diverse domains.

MATLAB software

MATLAB, which stands for "MATrix LABoratory," is a high-level programming language and interactive environment primarily used for numerical computation, data analysis, and visualization. It was developed by MathWorks and is widely used in various fields, including:

• Engineering: MATLAB is extensively used in engineering disciplines such as electrical, mechanical, and aerospace engineering for tasks like control system design, signal processing, and simulations.

• Science: Scientists in fields like physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science use MATLAB for data analysis, modeling, and simulations. It's particularly useful for tasks involving large datasets and complex mathematical calculations.

• Finance: MATLAB is employed in finance for risk assessment, portfolio optimization, algorithmic trading, and financial modeling.

• Economics: Economists use MATLAB for economic modeling, econometrics, and statistical analysis.

• Image and Signal Processing: It's used for processing and analyzing images, audio signals, and video data, making it valuable in fields like computer vision and multimedia.

• Machine Learning and Deep Learning: MATLAB provides tools and libraries for developing and implementing machine learning and deep learning algorithms.

• Academic and Research: MATLAB is widely used in universities and research institutions for a variety of research projects and academic courses due to its versatility and ease of use.

• Control Systems: Engineers and researchers use MATLAB to design, simulate, and analyze control systems for various applications, including robotics and industrial automation.

• Communication Systems: In telecommunications and networking, MATLAB is used for designing and analyzing communication systems, coding schemes, and signal processing techniques.

• Data Analysis: MATLAB is a popular choice for data analysis, offering a wide range of statistical and data visualization tools.

• Artificial Intelligence: MATLAB supports AI research with tools for natural language processing, computer vision, and reinforcement learning.

• Healthcare and Biomedical Engineering: MATLAB is used for medical image analysis, bioinformatics, and modeling biological systems.

MATLAB's versatility, extensive libraries, and user-friendly environment make it a powerful tool for researchers, engineers, scientists, and professionals across a wide range of industries and academic fields. It allows users to perform complex computations, create custom algorithms, and visualize data, making it an invaluable resource for various applications.

DIAdem software

DIAdem software, developed by National Instruments (now known as NI), is a powerful data management and analysis tool designed for engineers, scientists, and researchers. It is primarily used for tasks related to data acquisition, data analysis, and report generation in various engineering and scientific applications.

Key Features of DIAdem Software:

• Data Import and Conversion: DIAdem allows users to import data from a wide range of sources, including data acquisition systems, laboratory instruments, and various file formats. It can convert data into a common format for seamless analysis.

• Data Analysis: The software provides a suite of data analysis tools for performing calculations, filtering, statistical analysis, and signal processing. Engineers and scientists can gain valuable insights from their data through these tools.

• Report Generation: DIAdem simplifies the process of creating professional reports with customizable templates. Users can include data plots, tables, and text to document their findings.

• Data Visualization: The software offers advanced data visualization capabilities, enabling users to create plots, graphs, and charts to represent their data effectively. This aids in understanding trends and patterns.

• Scripting and Automation: DIAdem supports scripting and automation, allowing users to create custom scripts and automate repetitive data processing tasks, saving time and ensuring consistency.

Applications of DIAdem Software:

DIAdem software is widely used in various industries and research fields, including:

• Automotive Testing: DIAdem is employed for analyzing data collected during vehicle testing, such as engine performance, emissions testing, and vehicle dynamics. It helps engineers optimize vehicle design and performance.

• Aerospace: Aerospace engineers use DIAdem for data analysis in aircraft and spacecraft testing, including structural testing, flight data analysis, and component testing.

• Environmental Monitoring: DIAdem aids in processing and analyzing data from environmental sensors, weather stations, and pollution monitoring systems. It is valuable for understanding environmental trends and patterns.

• Industrial Automation: In manufacturing and industrial settings, DIAdem is used to analyze data from production lines, quality control systems, and sensors, ensuring product quality and efficiency.

• Research and Development: Scientists and researchers use DIAdem in various fields, such as physics, chemistry, and materials science, to analyze experimental data and draw meaningful conclusions.

• Energy Sector: DIAdem is employed in the energy sector for analyzing data related to energy production, distribution, and consumption, helping utilities optimize their operations.

• Academic and Educational Institutions: DIAdem is used in universities and educational institutions for teaching and research purposes, providing students with practical experience in data analysis and management.

DIAdem software's versatility and robust capabilities make it a valuable tool for professionals and researchers who deal with data analysis and management in their day-to-day work across diverse industries and scientific disciplines.

TestStand software

TestStand software, developed by National Instruments (now NI), is a test management software platform designed to automate and streamline the process of test and measurement systems development, execution, and reporting. It is a powerful tool used primarily in engineering and manufacturing environments to ensure the quality and reliability of products through comprehensive testing and validation.

Key Features of TestStand Software

• Test Sequencing: TestStand allows users to create and manage test sequences, defining the order in which tests are conducted. It supports parallel testing, conditional branching, and looping to accommodate complex testing scenarios.

• Integration: It seamlessly integrates with various hardware and software components, such as test instruments, data acquisition systems, and custom-built test modules. This makes it adaptable to a wide range of testing setups.

• Customization: Users can customize test sequences and create reusable test modules, reducing development time and effort. It also supports scripting for more advanced customization.

• Data Logging and Reporting: TestStand collects and logs test data in real time, facilitating detailed analysis. Users can generate comprehensive test reports with customizable templates, helping identify issues and trends.

• Multi-Language Support: The software supports multiple programming languages, making it accessible to engineers and developers with diverse programming backgrounds.