The Vehicle Performance Computer (VPC), an IBM PC-based data acquisition and analysis system, is a portable unit capable of scanning 16 analog and 2 digital data channels at high speeds. The VPC is completely self-contained, with excitations for transducers, menu-driven operating program, data analysis and display features, and software calibration.
The VPC is compact enough (1.4 ft.3, 35 pounds) to fit in the passenger seat of the smallest vehicle. System power is from the vehicle battery, at a maximum rate of 7 amps. The VPC generates audio and visual cues to alert the operator to specific conditions. Data are stored in a rugged bubble memory for later transfer to 5.25 inch floppy diskette.
The paper discusses the predecessor to the VPC, the hardware and software development process, the general operation of the VPC, verification of function, special projects which exploit the flexibility of the system, and future enhancements.