What is VDAS®?
TecQuipment’s VDAS® (Versatile Data Acquisition System) is purpose-built to work seamlessly with our teaching equipment, helping students capture, analyse and understand engineering data with clarity and confidence. Designed for fast set-up via simple USB connections, VDAS® delivers real-time data acquisition, automated calculations, charting and easy data export.
VDAS® includes both hardware and software options to suit a wide range of laboratory environments.
VDAS® hardware options
- VDAS® On Board integrates directly into selected TecQuipment products and requires no extra hardware. You can identify these systems by the ‘V’ suffix in the product code, such as EC1501V.
- VDAS® Bench Mounted is a standalone unit that serves multiple VDAS®-compliant bench-top products.
- VDAS® Frame Mounted is designed for larger equipment, providing robust data acquisition for sizeable experimental rigs.
VDAS® software options
- The core VDAS® Software is available as a free download for unlimited users. It supports quick connection, smooth data recording and straightforward result export. Video guides are available on the TecQuipment YouTube channel.
- For programmes offering remote or blended learning, VDAS® e-lab provides a cloud-based environment that allows students to participate in experiments interactively from any location. Annual licence options are available.
- TecQuipment also supports LabVIEW users with a set of Virtual Instruments that display and process data from VDAS®-compatible products, giving students additional flexibility in data analysis and interpretation.
VDAS® Compatibility?
Which TecQuipment products use VDAS®?
Can VDAS® be used with other types of software offered by TecQuipment?
VDAS® is compatible with LabVIEW. VDAS® is not compatible with TecQuipment’s DefleX® or HDMS (this is the hydraulics equipment’s own version of VDAS® and as such has the same capabilities). If you are interested in HDMS, find out more here.
Does VDAS® work on non-TecQuipment products.
Unfortunately, VDAS® is our propriety software and has been tailored to operate in perfect harmony only with TecQuipment products to maximise learning potential.
VDAS® Installations
Which VDAS® version do I install?
- We provide two installers. The first is larger as it includes Microsoft’s .NET Framework 4.8, which VDAS® requires to run. The second is smaller and recommended for installations where .NET Framework 4.8 already exists; this would be where you have already installed VDAS® on your device before.
If I have a previous version of VDAS® do I install the new version or will it automatically update?
No, it won’t automatically update. You will need to uninstall the old version and install the newest version. You will just need to select the VDAS® Installer button, not the VDAS® Installer (including .NET Framework 4.8) as you have previously install VDAS®.
VDAS® Purchases and add-ons
Do I need to purchase VDAS®?
- If the TecQuipment product has VDAS® Onboard you don’t need to purchase anything, you can just download our software free of charge from the website. If your product is VDAS®-compatible you will need to purchase either the bench-mounted or frame-mounted hardware unit that will then be able to run the software. Talk to our Sales team if you are unsure about which unit you need for your products.
Do I need to have VDAS® e-lab?
- No, you don’t need to have VDAS® e-lab when you have VDAS®. But if you have VDAS® and want enhanced features, VDAS® e-lab will provide this. TecQuipment offers VDAS® e-lab software, which is a flexible and easy-to-use cloud-based system enabling students to remotely interact, engage and participate in laboratory experiments.
VDAS® Support
If I have a problem with VDAS® who do I contact?
- We now have our contact information displayed in the “help” tab in the software. Alternatively, you can contact our friendly customer.care@tecquipment.com team.
I want to modify the software for my own purposes, can I do this?
No, but if you have any suggestions on changing VDAS® we will be happy to take your feedback. You can either contact us, or fill in our survey which is accessible via the “help” tab in the software, by scanning the QR code, or via a link at tecquipment.com/VDAS
How do I use VDAS® for the first time?
- Locate the VDAS® logo on your TecQuipment product to confirm whether it is VDAS® Onboard or VDAS®-compatible.
- Connect your device to the hardware using the USB cable.
- Launch the VDAS® application when the initial prompt appears. We also supply a helpful user guide which comes supplied with the VDAS® hardware and can be requested from customer.care@tecquipment.com
About this article
This FAQ has been developed with support from Dave, our Installation Training and Commissioning Manager, who has brought together the most common questions raised during training sessions and customer visits. Answers have been provided by TecQuipment’s in-house software development team to ensure accuracy and clarity for educators and technicians.
