Overview: Integrating LabJack Devices with Machinechat JEDI

Imagine turning raw LabJack data into intuitive dashboards, HTML or CSV reports by email, rule-based alerts and notifications. By integrating LabJack devices with Machinechat JEDI, you can harness the full power of your data acquisition system for real-time monitoring, control, and automation. Whether you're managing environmental sensors, industrial systems, or custom hardware, this guide shows you two powerful ways to combine the reailability of LabJack with the intelligence of JEDI to transform your workflows.

Method 1: Built-In Modbus-TCP Data Collector

Overview

This method leverages JEDI's built-in Modbus-TCP data collector to communicate directly with LabJack T4, T7, and T8 devices. It is a straightforward, no-code solution ideal for devices supporting Modbus-TCP natively.

How It Works

• Connection: JEDI polls data from the LabJack device using Modbus-TCP protocol over the network (default port: 502).
• Visualization: Collected data can be visualized in real time using JEDI's dashboard widgets (e.g., line charts, gauges, and tables).
• Control and Automation: JEDI supports sending commands to the LabJack (e.g., toggling outputs) and defining rules for alerts and actions.

Advantages

• Ease of Use: No programming required—configure and connect directly in JEDI.
• Real-Time Performance: Suitable for applications requiring fast and consistent data polling.
• Wide Compatibility: Works with LabJack T4, T7, and T8 devices that support Modbus-TCP.

Use Cases

• Monitoring sensors.
• Real-time control of actuators and relays based on sensor data.

For step-by-step instructions, refer to How To Collect, Visualize, and Monitor LabJack Data with Modbus-TCP.

Method 2: Python-Based Custom Data Collector

Overview

This method utilizes LabJack's LJM Python library wrapped in a custom Python script (mclabjackreader.py). The script acts as a "Custom Data Collector" in JEDI, reading data from LabJack registers and sending it to JEDI via STDOUT.

How It Works

• Script Execution: The Python script connects to the LabJack device (via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi) and reads specified registers.
• Customizable Data: Users can modify the script to select the registers, precision, and other settings.
• Integration: JEDI executes the script as a Custom Data Collector and ingests the printed data.

Advantages

• Flexibility: Supports advanced configurations and data processing using Python.
• Broad Device Support: Works with any LabJack device supported by the LJM library, including non-Modbus-compatible models.
• Extendability: Modify the script to include logic for advanced data transformation or device-specific operations.

Use Cases

• Applications requiring precise control over data processing or filtering.
• Scenarios where Modbus-TCP is unavailable (e.g., using USB or custom interfaces).

For detailed instructions, refer to How To Read Data from LabJack into Machinechat JEDI Using a Python Plugin

Which Method Should You Choose?

By understanding your requirements—whether it's simplicity and real-time performance or flexibility and customizability—you can choose the most suitable method to integrate your LabJack devices with Machinechat JEDI.

Need further assistance? Check the detailed guides linked above or contact support at support@machinechat.io.