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DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter)
An electronic device, often an integrated circuit, that converts a digital number into a corresponding analog voltage or current.
Data acquisition
A term commonly used for equipment or software that gathers data from devices through a communications channel.
Data highway
This is a communications network that allows devices such as PLCs to communicate. They are normally proprietary, which means that only like devices of the same brand can communicate over the highway.
DCS (Distributed Control System)
A global hardware and software solution to the requirements of a control system, usually provided by one manufacturer.
DeviceNet
A low-cost communication link that connects industrial devices to a network.It is based on broadcast-oriented communication protocol - the Controller Area Network (CAN).
Distributed processing
The concept of distributed processing allows individual discrete devices to control their area and still communicate to the others via a network. The distributed control takes the processing load off the "host" system.
Digital input
An input that can have two states: on or off. These are also called discrete inputs.
Digital output
An output that can have two states: on or off. These are also called discrete outputs.
Downtime
Periods where computers, equipment, or manufacturing systems are not available to perform work.
DSP (Digital Signal Processor)
An integrated circuit designed for high-speed data manipulations. Used in audio, communications, image manipulation, and other data-acquisition and data-control applications.
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