Moog Test Controller Data Acquisition

# Moog Test Controller — Data Acquisition via Ethernet

## Context

30 Moog test controllers in a fatigue lab, connected to PCs via Ethernet. Requirement: record data **in parallel** to the existing Moog PC application without interference.

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## Methods for Reading Data

### Method 1: Dewesoft X with Moog Extension (Recommended)

Most straightforward and officially supported approach.

- **Connection**: Direct Ethernet to each controller via IP address (found in Moog SmartBAR → "Select RTFE" tab)
- **Channels**: Queries controller for available channels (load cell, displacement, command signals, etc.)
- **Licensing**: May require an additional license on the controller side — **verify with Moog**
- **Scalability**: Need to confirm if 30+ simultaneous controller connections are supported

### Method 2: Custom Network Data Sniffer

Passively capture and parse Ethernet traffic between controllers and existing PC app.

- Place network tap or configure SPAN port mirroring
- Use Wireshark or custom script to filter/decode data packets
- **Challenges**: Protocol may not be publicly documented, synchronization difficult at high sample rates
- **Advantage**: No additional controller licenses needed

### Method 3: OPC UA / Standard Industrial Protocol

If controllers support standard protocols:
- **OPC UA**: Connect any OPC UA client to read data in parallel
- **EtherCAT**: Some Moog products use EtherCAT (EtherType 0x88A4)
- **CANopen over Ethernet** (CiA 301): Referenced in M3000 controller manual
- **Action required**: Verify specific communication capabilities with Moog

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## Comparison

| Method | Difficulty | Cost | Reliability | Key Dependency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dewesoft X Extension | Low | High (software + hardware) | High | Controller-side license, scalability proof |
| Custom Network Sniffer | High | Low (dev time) | Medium | Undocumented protocol knowledge |
| OPC UA / Standard Protocol | Medium | Medium | Medium | Not confirmed for all controller models |

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## Recommended Action Plan

1. **Contact Moog and Dewesoft** about:
   - Required license for parallel Ethernet data streaming
   - Maximum controllers per Dewesoft X instance
   - Request demo/trial with 1–2 controllers first
2. **Pilot test** with 1–2 controllers before scaling to 30
3. **Network infrastructure**: Ensure Ethernet switches can handle 30 parallel data streams without impacting primary control application (consider VLANs)

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## Technical Notes

- Moog Aerospace Test Software is the proprietary control/monitoring solution — handles Ethernet communication internally
- Controllers have dedicated Ethernet interfaces for transferring load cell, position, and spectrum data
- Gantner Instruments Q.series can also integrate with Moog controllers (measurement data exchange)
- EtherCAT firmware manuals detail protocol structure for custom implementations


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