# NIDAQ alternative

**URL:** <https://mworks.discourse.group/t/nidaq-alternative/160>\
**Category:** Support\
**Created:** [November 2, 2020, 4:18pm UTC](https://mworks.discourse.group/t/nidaq-alternative/160 "2020-11-02T16:18:33Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 4\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![cstawarz](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/mworks.discourse.group/cstawarz/32/3_2.png) [@cstawarz](https://mworks.discourse.group/u/cstawarz)\
**Post date:** [November 2, 2020, 4:18pm UTC](https://mworks.discourse.group/t/nidaq-alternative/160/1 "2020-11-02T16:18:33Z")

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Hi Chris,

Do you think we can replace our NIDAQ devices with the following

> **[USB-based 8 channel Data Acquisition Device with 1.2kHz Sampling Rate -...](https://microdaq.com/measurement-computing-usb-1208ls-daq.php)**
>
> High Speed USB Device with (8) 12-Bit Analog Inputs, (2) Analog Outputs, (16) Digital I/Os and (1) External Event Counter
> Analog Inputs are Software Configurable for (8) Single-Ended or (4) Differential Inputs
> Independent Digital Port Configuration...

Wondering about MWorks compatibility.

Thanks,  
Ko

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**Author:** ![cstawarz](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/mworks.discourse.group/cstawarz/32/3_2.png) [@cstawarz](https://mworks.discourse.group/u/cstawarz)\
**Post date:** [November 2, 2020, 4:36pm UTC](https://mworks.discourse.group/t/nidaq-alternative/160/2 "2020-11-02T16:36:15Z")

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Hi Ko,

The software needed by that device doesn’t appear to support macOS, so I don’t think we’ll be able to make it work with MWorks.

If your I/O needs are relatively simple (e.g. pump control, sending sync signals to a recording system), then I recommend using a [Firmata](https://mworks.github.io/documentation/latest/components/firmata_device.html)-compatible device. Most [Arduino](https://www.arduino.cc) boards and compatible devices are supported by the Arduino [Firmata library](https://github.com/firmata/arduino). In my experience, these devices are fast, reliable, and very inexpensive, which is why I always recommend them first.

If you want a more traditional DAQ device, the [LabJack T4](https://labjack.com/products/t4) looks pretty comparable to the Measurement Computing device you referenced. I’m still working on adding support for LabJack T-series devices to MWorks, but I could probably wrap it up fairly quickly, if you decide to go that route.

If there are other devices you’re interested in using with MWorks, send me a link, and I’ll try to assess whether we can make them work.

Cheers,  
Chris

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<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![cstawarz](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/mworks.discourse.group/cstawarz/32/3_2.png) [@cstawarz](https://mworks.discourse.group/u/cstawarz)\
**Post date:** [November 2, 2020, 4:48pm UTC](https://mworks.discourse.group/t/nidaq-alternative/160/3 "2020-11-02T16:48:23Z")

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Thanks Chris.

I will look into the Arduino options. Seems like they are the most scalable. Right now, I don’t need anything. The ITC controller is working. But I am sort of preparing for a situation when this device breaks or just in general if I build a new set up.

I will get back to you soon.  
Thanks,  
Ko

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<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![cstawarz](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex031/user_avatar/mworks.discourse.group/cstawarz/32/3_2.png) [@cstawarz](https://mworks.discourse.group/u/cstawarz)\
**Post date:** [July 19, 2022, 7:15pm UTC](https://mworks.discourse.group/t/nidaq-alternative/160/4 "2022-07-19T19:15:16Z")

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