Automatic data acquisition system (ADACS)

The communication between the various instruments in the monitoring shelters and a central computer (AirQUIS) is normally based on public telephone lines.

The data retrieval and data evaluation routine is described as follows:

• When the first set of data is retrieved at the computer centre daily data evaluation starts. First of all calibration factors will have to be checked. Next span checkpoints, errors, peak values, false data and other peculiarities in the retrieved data have to be taken out.
• Time plots of the data will be produced, to evaluate the diurnal, weekly and spatial variation in concentrations. Training in the judgment of concentration levels and units will be undertaken.
• The tools for checking the data quality on a daily basis are part of the AirQUIS system installed at the Central Station.

To collect air quality and meteorological data from various measurement stations to the central database, where data can be evaluated, a robust and stable communication network is required to obtain high frequency of operation. NILU has developed a user friendly Automatic Data Acquisition System (ADACS), which is an integrated part of the AirQUIS system.