Placid DAQ Systems
Professional data acquisition for acoustic & vibration measurement
Three purpose-built DAQ devices — from compact 4-channel portable units to 16-channel rack systems — paired with PQ Analyst software for a complete measurement chain. Open SDK for MATLAB, Python, C++, and C#.
Placid DAQ Product Range
Each device is designed for a specific use case within acoustic and vibration measurement.
PQ401-A/B — 4-Channel DAQ
Compact portable DAQ with 24-bit resolution, up to 196 kHz sampling, IEPE/voltage inputs, and open SDK. Ideal for R&D and university labs.
- 4 channels
- 24-bit, 114 dB DR
- MATLAB / Python SDK
- TCP/IP Ethernet
- Battery + SD card
PQ441-C — 4-Channel Signal Conditioner DAQ
Multi-channel signal conditioner with high sampling rate up to 88 kHz. Supports various sensor types with configurable signal conditioning.
- 4 channels
- 88 kHz max sampling
- Signal conditioning
- Multi-sensor support
- High dynamic range
PQ1601 — 16-Channel Data Acquisition System
Professional 16-channel DAQ with BNC interface for multi-point acoustic and vibration measurements. Suited for array measurements and structural testing.
- 16 channels
- BNC interface
- 24-bit resolution
- Multi-point measurement
- Professional grade
Complete the Chain: PQ Analyst Software
Every Placid DAQ device works seamlessly with PQ Analyst — an integrated desktop platform for signal acquisition, visualization, and analysis.
- Real-time FFT spectrum analysis up to full DAQ bandwidth
- Spectrogram (waterfall) display for time-frequency visualization
- 1/1 and 1/3 octave band analysis per IEC 61260
- Sound Level Meter module (Leq, Lmax, Lmin, LN) per IEC 61672
- Export to CSV for post-processing in MATLAB, Python, or Excel
- Compatible with PQ401-A/B, PQ441-C, and PQ1601
Application Areas
University Research Labs
Thesis and dissertation data acquisition with full SDK access for custom scripting in MATLAB or Python.
R&D Departments
Prototype testing, NVH analysis, and algorithm development with open protocol and direct hardware control.
Industrial Condition Monitoring
Motors, pumps, turbines, and rotating machinery vibration monitoring with multi-channel synchronous acquisition.
Structural & Building Acoustics
Sound insulation, impact noise, and structural vibration testing with multi-channel recording capability.
Automotive NVH Testing
Vehicle interior noise and vibration characterization with portable 4-channel units.
Environmental Noise Logging
Long-duration multi-channel noise logging at construction sites, airports, and industrial zones.
Model Comparison
| Specification | PQ401-A | PQ401-B | PQ441-C | PQ1601 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 4 | 4 | 4 | 16 |
| Max Sampling Rate | 128 kHz | 196 kHz | 88 kHz | Multi-ch |
| Resolution | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit |
| Input Type | IEPE / Voltage | IEPE / Voltage | Signal Conditioner | BNC |
| Connection | Ethernet TCP/IP | Ethernet TCP/IP | USB / Ethernet | BNC Interface |
| SDK (Open) | MATLAB, Python, C, C# | MATLAB, Python, C, C# | Yes | Yes |
| SD Card Storage | 16 GB | 16 GB | — | — |
| Dynamic Range | 114 dB | 114 dB | High | High |
| Form Factor | Portable (520 g) | Portable (520 g) | Desktop Module | Rack / Desktop |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PQ401-A and PQ401-B?
Both are 4-channel, 24-bit DAQ devices with the same form factor and SDK. The PQ401-A tops out at 128 kHz sampling rate, while the PQ401-B reaches 196 kHz — making PQ401-B the preferred choice when you need to capture higher-frequency signals beyond 50 kHz.
Do Placid DAQ devices come with software?
Yes. All Placid DAQ devices are compatible with PQ Analyst — PLACID's integrated analysis software for real-time FFT, octave analysis, spectrogram display, and sound level measurement. Additionally, the open SDK lets you write your own acquisition routines in MATLAB, Python, C, or C#.
Can I use Placid DAQ with MATLAB or Python?
Yes. The PQ401 and PQ441-C include a fully documented open SDK with example code for MATLAB, Python, C, and C#. The TCP/IP protocol documentation is also provided so you can build custom applications from scratch.
What is the PQ1601 used for?
The PQ1601 is a 16-channel data acquisition system with BNC interface, designed for multi-point measurement applications where you need more channels than the 4-channel units provide — such as multi-axis structural testing or large array microphone measurements.
Where can I buy Placid DAQ in Thailand and Southeast Asia?
Placid Asia is the authorized distributor for PLACID Instruments DAQ products in Thailand and across Southeast Asia. We provide local application support, calibration services, and training. Contact us for a quotation.
How does Placid DAQ differ from the old PLACID Instruments archive pages?
We are Placid Asia — the regional authorized distributor. We supply current-generation Placid DAQ hardware (PQ401, PQ441-C, PQ1601) with local support from Bangkok. For the latest product information, use this site rather than archived manufacturer pages.
Ready to Specify a Placid DAQ System?
Our application engineers will help you select the right DAQ model, sensor inputs, and software for your measurement task.