Design of a thermal stabilizer based on USB data acquisition and control using LabVIEW and PIC microcontroller

Abstract

This paper reports the design of real-time acquisition and temperature control system using LabVIEW (Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench) which communicate with PC through USB interface. The solution is particularly suitable for educators and students interested in developing lab experiments to evaluate and control the temperature variation using portable and low-cost system. The proposed solution is validated through an experimental prototype using PIC 18F4550 microcontroller. The temperature effect on power BJT (Bipolar Junction Transistor) is demonstrated by measuring the characteristics of the transistor 2N6486 using Tektronix-370B curve tracer under different degrees of temperature. The value of temperature inside an insulated designed box wrapping the transistor, sensor and actuators is controlled by the PC. The developed system for data acquisition and command of temperature with an accuracy of 1 0C can be used for many industrial applications.