#Data Acquisition

[hhanoraa]

type of girl who makes you complete a preliminary survey and exit survey rating ur expectations and experience

[auto2mation1]

Keysight 34972A Lxi Data Acquisition Logger Switch Unit My41217227 - Auto2mation

The Keysight 34972A LXI Data Acquisition Logger Switch Unit MY41217227 from Auto2mation is a reliable, high-performance data logging and measurement solution. It features a built-in 6½ digit digital multimeter, 3-slot mainframe, and supports up to 120 channels for accurate data collection. Designed with LXI compliance, it allows easy network connectivity for remote monitoring and control. Ideal for both industrial and lab environments, this compact unit simplifies testing and data logging tasks. With its user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities, the 34972A ensures fast setup, precise measurements, and dependable performance for various test automation needs.

[infosectrain03]

The IDC reports show that the data will cross 174 zettabytes by 2025 worldwide. Over the last two years, 90% of the world's data has been created (Forbes). We are drowning in data, but millions of organizations can't extract insights from it. 

[labdeck123]

Understanding Data Acquisition: The Key to Informed Decision-Making

In today’s digital world, data is one of the most valuable assets. Organizations across industries rely on accurate and timely data to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and make informed decisions. Data acquisition (DAQ) plays a crucial role in collecting, processing, and analyzing real-time data from various sources, including industrial machinery, sensors, and environmental monitoring systems.

What is Data Acquisition?

Data acquisition refers to the process of measuring physical or electrical parameters such as temperature, pressure, humidity, voltage, or current using sensors and converting them into digital data for further analysis. The DAQ system typically consists of sensors, signal conditioning hardware, analog-to-digital converters (ADC), and software for data processing and visualization.

Components of a Data Acquisition System

A typical DAQ system comprises the following key components:

Sensors and Transducers: These devices measure physical parameters and convert them into electrical signals.

Signal Conditioning: The raw signals from sensors are processed, filtered, and amplified to improve accuracy.

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): The conditioned analog signals are converted into digital format for further processing.

DAQ Hardware: Interfaces such as USB, PCI, or Ethernet facilitate communication between the sensors and the computer.

DAQ Software: Specialized software is used for data logging, visualization, and analysis.

Applications of Data Acquisition

Data acquisition is widely used across multiple industries, including:

Industrial Automation: Monitoring and controlling production lines for efficiency and quality.

Healthcare: Recording patient data from medical devices in real time.

Environmental Monitoring: Measuring air quality, water levels, and climate changes.

Automotive Testing: Collecting performance data from vehicles for safety and efficiency improvements.

Energy Sector: Monitoring power grids and renewable energy sources for optimal operation.

Advantages of Data Acquisition Systems

Real-time Monitoring: Provides instant insights into system performance.

Improved Accuracy: Enhances precision in measurements and reduces errors.

Data Storage and Analysis: Enables historical data tracking for trend analysis.

Automation and Control: Helps in process automation and predictive maintenance.

Cost Efficiency: Reduces operational costs by optimizing resource utilization.

Future of Data Acquisition

With advancements in IoT, AI, and cloud computing, data acquisition systems are becoming smarter and more interconnected. The integration of wireless DAQ systems and AI-powered analytics will further enhance real-time decision-making capabilities and efficiency.

Conclusion

Data acquisition is a fundamental technology that enables businesses and industries to operate efficiently and make data-driven decisions. As technology evolves, the role of DAQ systems will continue to expand, paving the way for smarter and more connected environments.

[bitstream24]

A Comprehensive Analysis of the CANCrocodile Contactless CAN Bus Reader

Discover the CANCrocodile Contactless CAN Bus Reader, a non-intrusive solution for real-time vehicle diagnostics, fleet management, and industrial automation. Learn how its advanced contactless technology ensures secure and interference-free data monitoring without disrupting system operations.

[primathontechnology]

IoT Data Analytics Benefits

Explore how IoT data analytics can transform industries. Learn about key use cases and the benefits of leveraging IoT for more intelligent business decisions and efficiency. In this context, Internet of Things data analytics relates to the collection, transformation, and analysis of data from Internet of Things devices.

[apicalindustrialsolution]

SCADA Integrators

The Essential Guide to SCADA Integrators: Enhancing Efficiency and Control

In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, the role of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems is more crucial than ever. These systems allow businesses to monitor, control, and optimize their operations in real time. However, the effectiveness of a SCADA system often hinges on the expertise of SCADA integrators. In this blog, we’ll delve into what SCADA integrators do, why they are important, and how they can help businesses unlock the full potential of their SCADA systems.

What Are SCADA Integrators?

SCADA integrators are specialists who design, implement, and manage SCADA systems tailored to a company’s specific needs. They play a critical role in ensuring that all components of a SCADA system work harmoniously together. This includes integrating hardware, software, and network elements to create a cohesive system that provides real-time monitoring and control.

Why SCADA Integrators Are Vital

Customization and Optimization: SCADA integrators bring a wealth of expertise in tailoring systems to fit unique operational requirements. They ensure that the SCADA system is not just a generic solution but a customized tool that enhances the specific processes of a business. This includes configuring dashboards, setting up alarms, and optimizing data collection methods.

Seamless Integration: Integrators are adept at bridging various components of a SCADA system. This means connecting sensors, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and other field devices with the central SCADA software. Their work ensures that data flows seamlessly from the field to the control room, facilitating accurate and timely decision-making.

Enhanced Security: Security is a major concern for SCADA systems, as they are often linked to critical infrastructure. SCADA integrators implement robust security measures to protect against cyber threats and ensure that sensitive data remains secure. This involves setting up firewalls, encryption protocols, and regular security audits.

Scalability: As businesses grow, their SCADA systems need to evolve. SCADA integrators help in scaling the system by adding new components, expanding data storage, and integrating with other enterprise systems. This scalability ensures that the SCADA system continues to meet the changing needs of the business.

Troubleshooting and Support: Even the most well-designed SCADA systems can encounter issues. SCADA integrators provide ongoing support and troubleshooting services to resolve any problems quickly. Their expertise minimizes downtime and ensures that operations continue smoothly.

Choosing the Right SCADA Integrator

When selecting a SCADA integrator, consider the following factors:

Experience and Expertise: Look for integrators with a proven track record and experience in your industry. Their familiarity with specific applications and standards can significantly impact the success of your SCADA system.

Customization Capabilities: Ensure that the integrator can tailor the system to your specific needs rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution. Customization can lead to better efficiency and effectiveness.

Support Services: Assess the level of ongoing support and maintenance offered. A reliable SCADA integrator should provide comprehensive support to address any issues that arise post-implementation.

Security Measures: Verify that the integrator has a strong focus on security, implementing best practices to safeguard your system against potential threats.

Conclusion

SCADA integrators are indispensable partners in harnessing the full power of SCADA systems. Their expertise in customization, integration, security, scalability, and support ensures that businesses can achieve optimal performance and reliability from their SCADA solutions. By choosing the right SCADA integrator, companies can not only enhance their operational efficiency but also stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

If you’re considering upgrading or implementing a SCADA system, investing in a skilled SCADA integrator can make all the difference. With their help, you can unlock new levels of control, insight, and efficiency in your operations.

[credenceresearchdotblog]

The global demand for portable data acquisition systems was valued at USD xx million in 2022 and is expected to reach USD xx million in 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.80% between 2023 and 2030.The Portable Data Acquisition (DAQ) System market is witnessing rapid growth driven by technological advancements, increased demand across various industries, and the need for precise data collection and analysis in real-time. Portable DAQ systems are versatile tools used to gather and analyze data from various sources, providing critical insights for decision-making and operational efficiency. This article explores the key trends, market drivers, challenges, and future prospects of the Portable Data Acquisition System market.

Browse the full report at https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/portable-data-acquisition-system-market

Market Overview

Portable DAQ systems are compact, mobile devices equipped with sensors and software to collect, record, and analyze data from physical environments. These systems are employed across diverse sectors, including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, environmental monitoring, and manufacturing. Their portability, ease of use, and ability to provide real-time data make them indispensable tools for field applications and remote monitoring.

Key Trends

1. Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and machine learning into portable DAQ systems has significantly enhanced their capabilities. Modern systems can now process vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, enabling predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and advanced analytics.

2. Miniaturization and Portability: Ongoing advancements in hardware design have led to the development of smaller, lighter, and more powerful portable DAQ systems. These compact devices are easy to transport and set up, making them ideal for on-site data collection in remote or difficult-to-access locations.

3. Wireless Connectivity: The incorporation of wireless communication technologies, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks, allows portable DAQ systems to transmit data in real-time to central databases or cloud-based platforms. This connectivity facilitates remote monitoring and analysis, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making.

4. User-Friendly Interfaces: Modern portable DAQ systems come with intuitive user interfaces and software applications that simplify data collection and analysis. These interfaces often include touchscreens, graphical displays, and customizable dashboards, making it easier for users to interact with the system and interpret data.

Market Drivers

1. Growing Demand for Data-Driven Insights: Organizations across various industries are increasingly relying on data-driven insights to optimize operations, improve product quality, and enhance customer experiences. Portable DAQ systems enable the collection of accurate and reliable data, which is crucial for informed decision-making.

2. Industrial Automation and Smart Manufacturing: The rise of Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing practices has led to a surge in demand for portable DAQ systems. These systems play a vital role in monitoring and controlling industrial processes, ensuring efficiency, and minimizing downtime.

3. Environmental Monitoring and Compliance: Stringent environmental regulations and the need for sustainable practices are driving the adoption of portable DAQ systems for environmental monitoring. These systems help in tracking pollutants, measuring air and water quality, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

4. Advancements in Healthcare and Biomedical Research: In the healthcare sector, portable DAQ systems are used for patient monitoring, diagnostic testing, and biomedical research. They provide real-time data on vital signs, enabling timely medical interventions and improving patient outcomes.

Challenges

1. High Initial Costs: The initial investment required for advanced portable DAQ systems can be substantial, posing a barrier to adoption for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, the long-term benefits in terms of operational efficiency and data accuracy often outweigh the initial costs.

2. Data Security and Privacy Concerns: With the increasing reliance on wireless connectivity and cloud-based platforms, ensuring the security and privacy of collected data is a significant challenge. Manufacturers and users must implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

3. Complexity in Data Management: The vast amount of data generated by portable DAQ systems can be overwhelming, requiring efficient data management and storage solutions. Integrating these systems with existing IT infrastructure and ensuring seamless data flow can be challenging.

Future Outlook

The future of the Portable Data Acquisition System market looks promising, with continued technological advancements and expanding applications across various industries. The adoption of 5G technology is expected to further enhance the connectivity and real-time capabilities of portable DAQ systems. Additionally, the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental monitoring will drive demand for these systems in the coming years.

Manufacturers are likely to invest in research and development to create more innovative, cost-effective, and user-friendly solutions. The integration of AI and machine learning will enable predictive analytics and automated decision-making, further enhancing the value proposition of portable DAQ systems.

Key Players

National Instruments Corp.

ABB Group

Keysight Technologies

Siemens Digital Industries Software

Spectris PLC

Fortive

ADLINK Technology

AMETEK, Inc.

Dewesoft d.o.o

Teledyne Technologies Incorporated

Yokogawa Electric Corporation

Pentek, Inc.

AstroNova Inc.

Campbell Scientific Inc.

Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Dataforth Corporation

Dewetron GmbH

Emerson Electric Co.

Gantner Instruments

General Electric Company

Graphtec Corporation

imc Test & Measurement GmbH

Hioki E.E. Corporation

Honeywell International Inc.

MTS System Corp.

Kistler Group

Rockwell Automation Corporation

Schneider Electric SE

Sefram

Others

Segmentation

By Type of Data Acquisition System

Stand-Alone Data Loggers

PC-Based Data Acquisition Systems

Distributed Data Acquisition Systems

Wireless Data Acquisition Systems

By Measurement Types

Analog Data Acquisition

Digital Data Acquisition

Mixed-Signal Data Acquisition

By Industry/Application

Industrial Automation and Control

Environmental Monitoring

Automotive and Transportation

Aerospace and Defense

Electronics and Semiconductor Testing

Energy and Power Monitoring

Telecommunications

Scientific Research

Healthcare and Medical Research

Oil and Gas

Structural Health Monitoring

Geological Exploration

Sampling Rate and Resolution

By End Users

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)

Research Institutions and Laboratories

Industrial Facilities

Healthcare Institutions

By Connectivity and Communication

Wired Systems

Wireless Systems

By Region

North America

The US.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

France

The U.K.

Italy

Spain

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

South-east Asia

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

GCC Countries

South Africa

Rest of the Middle East and Africa

Browse the full report at https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/portable-data-acquisition-system-market

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Contact:

Credence Research

Please contact us at +91 6232 49 3207

Email: sales@credenceresearch.com

Website: www.credenceresearch.com

[digilogic-system]

Data Acquisition System from Digilogic Systems

Digilogic's Modular Data Acquisition and Control System is a highly configurable and fully customized system built with COTS products. Rugged by design and inherently vibration resistant, our Data Acquisition System is ideal for vibration monitoring applications.

Our product is resistant to Bump, Drip, Moisture, EMI/EMC, Shock and Vibration. Modules and chassis can operate in extreme temperatures between -20ºC to +60ºC. The data can be transferred to a PC/Laptop through Ethernet and has a storage capacity of up to 4 GB per module.

For any queries (or) to get a quote, Contact us today. Phone: Hyderabad: (+91) 40 4547 4601 Bengaluru: (+91) 80 4975 6034 Website: www.digilogicsystems.com Email: info@digilogicsystems.com

[appliedmeasurementaustralia]

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Data Logger for Your Application

Data loggers are indispensable tools in various industries, from environmental monitoring to scientific research and beyond. With a plethora of options available in the market, selecting the Best data logger for your specific application can feel daunting.

Fear not! In this ultimate guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Application Needs

Before diving into the world of data loggers, it's crucial to understand the specific requirements of your application. Ask yourself questions such as:

What type of data am I looking to collect?

What environmental conditions will the data logger be exposed to?

How frequently will I need to retrieve or access the data?

By identifying your needs upfront, you'll be better equipped to narrow down your options and find the ideal data logger.

Key Features to Consider

When evaluating data loggers, several key features should be on your radar:

Measurement Parameters: Different data loggers specialise in recording various parameters, including temperature, humidity, pressure, voltage, and more. Ensure the data logger you choose can accurately measure the parameters relevant to your application.

Accuracy and Precision: The accuracy and precision of a data logger can significantly impact the reliability of your data. Look for devices with high-quality sensors and calibration options to ensure precise measurements.

Memory Capacity: Consider the amount of data storage required for your application. Some data loggers offer ample onboard memory, while others may require external storage options like SD cards or cloud-based solutions.

Battery Life and Power Options: For applications in remote or inaccessible locations, battery life is paramount. Evaluate the data logger's power consumption and consider options for battery replacement or alternative power sources.

Durability and Environmental Ratings: Depending on your application environment, you may need a data logger that can withstand harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or dust. Look for devices with robust construction and appropriate environmental ratings.

Choosing the Right Type of Data Logger

Data loggers come in various shapes and sizes, each tailored to specific applications:

Standalone Data Loggers: Standalone data loggers are self-contained devices that operate independently, making them ideal for applications where portability and simplicity are key.

Wireless Data Loggers: Wireless data loggers offer the convenience of remote monitoring and data retrieval via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks. These are perfect for applications that require real-time data access or monitoring from a distance.

USB Data Loggers: USB data loggers are compact devices that connect directly to a computer or mobile device for data retrieval and analysis. They are suitable for applications where frequent data downloads are necessary.

Budget Considerations

While it's tempting to splurge on the latest and greatest data logger, it's essential to balance your needs with your budget. Consider the long-term costs of ownership, including maintenance, calibration, and support services.

Conclusion

If you're still unsure which data logger is right for your application, don't hesitate to seek advice from experts in the field. Reach out to data logger manufacturers, distributors, or industry professionals who can provide guidance based on their experience and expertise.

With these tips in mind, you're now equipped to navigate the vast landscape of data loggers and choose the perfect solution for your application.

Remember, the right data logger can make all the difference in the accuracy and reliability of your data, so choose wisely!

Source by - Choosing the Right Data Logger for Your Application

[nnctales]

Enhancing Structural Integrity: The Role of Structural Health Monitoring

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is a revolutionary discipline within civil engineering that employs advanced technologies to ensure the ongoing safety, reliability, and longevity of structures. In an era where infrastructure serves as the backbone of societal progress, the proactive and data-driven approach of SHM has become increasingly vital. Structural Health Monitoring (Source:…

[determunition]

some of my favorite thumbnail-to-final glowups from digital affection! i focused real hard on getting in solid final frames for each shot before posing stuff out, so some of these have such a drastic upgrade in quality that it makes me chuckle

also, as a lil bonus, here's some concept sketches and margin notes! including a crusty screenshot of the full stained-glass pieces in mag's tower belfry that ultimately got halfway cut off; might make a more finished print of that thing one of these days

[notbecauseofvictories]

cute thing I have learned during this conference: a couple different players are working in the quantum computing space, and specifically working on encryption protection algorithms to defend against attacks---these algorithms are called "kyber" and "dilithium" respectively.

nerds.

[sshbpodcast]

Who’s a Good Boy? Spot vs. Porthos

By Ames

It’s been a minute since we had a spotlight battle when we wondered who was more badass: Tasha Yar or Ro Laren? And now we dare ask who is the best Star Trek pet: Data’s orange tabby cat Spot or Archer’s prized beagle Porthos? We’re all animal lovers here at A Star to Steer Her By, so it’s going to be a competition with many factors to consider, and you know what that means…

The Big Board is back, bitches!

Both pets are loyal and loving companions; they even have focus episodes in which they contribute to saving the day. And I’d argue that we really don��t see either as much as we’d like! Spot definitely gets fewer episodes, and changes breeds and sexes every so often without any explanation (I’m going to mostly call Spot a girl and ignore continuity for the sake of this post). And Porthos, while appearing in more episodes, often gets forgotten when the plot demands it. Who’s going to win best-in-show this week? Read on below and listen to this week’s episode (romp on over to timestamp 52:21) to find out who gets the blue ribbon!

[Images © CBS/Paramount]

1. Relationship with master

Spot: A cat is the perfect four-legged friend for an android because they are both aloof but wise, and can basically take care of themselves. Data cares for his beloved feline almost obsessively, trying out new replicated food to make her happy, writing poetry about her, and making sure she’s cared for when he’s away. But the most heart-warming example of how much Data loves Spot is in Generations when they’re reunited after the ship crash and Data’s emotions really come out.

Porthos: Dogs are the poster pet for adventure and exploration, and Archer is such a dog person. He is in constant need of someone in his life offering unconditional companionship and love, and dogs give it all away for free. Say what you want about the guy (and we gave him hell), but we see Archer’s devotion to his sweet pupper on full display in “A Night in Sickbay” when Porthos is in medbay and Archer refuses to leave his side, even with Phlox there being a nuisance the entire time.

Winner: Spot. We’re all cat owners on this podcast, and we know how much work it takes getting a cat to come out of her shell, so Data gets some extra credit here. And frankly, Archer bringing Porthos into the Delphic Expanse with him in “The Xindi”—where they assumed they’d get annihilated—is damn selfish. Leave the dog with Danica Erickson or something, dude! At least the Enterprise-D was cat friendly!

—

2. Human relationships

Spot: While Spot is very affectionate and tender with Data, it’s sort of a running joke throughout seasons 6 and 7 that she doesn’t get along with anyone else. She scratches Riker in “Timescape.” She hisses at Geordi while hiding under the bed in “Force of Nature,” and he gives Data a whole speech about how she needs to be better trained. Worf is insinuated to be allergic to cats and only promises to feed Spot in “Phantasms” in Data’s absence. The only person other than Data we see actually getting along with her is Barclay in “Genesis” because he’s another cat person!

Porthos: The doggo, on the other hand, is a glutton for attention. Porthos is a very good dog with absolutely everyone. When Phlox eventually comes to understand animals can be used for companionship and not just for his medical menagerie, he seems to really value his time with him, especially in an episode like “Doctor’s Orders.” Perhaps the most emblematic portrayal of Porthos’s shipwide friendship is seen when Sim spends time with him after he’s settled on sacrificing himself in “Similitude.” Who else would you rather your last moments be with than a doggy?

Winner: Porthos. This one is obvious. Spot is not only unfriendly to the rest of the crew, but downright aggressive at times. But Porthos is fully content to get scritches and pats from just about anyone.

—

3. Responses to threats

Spot: This kitty’s got claws! How well would Spot do in defending the ship? We posit she’d do pretty damn well, as is evidenced by how she sent Riker to medbay with scratches on his face that one time in “Timescape.” She could certainly hold her own in a fight with a real foe if she can take down the first officer of the whole ship!

Porthos: This beagle, on the other hand, is a pushover. I’ve complained a bunch of times on the podcast that I just don’t buy it any time the dog actors are supposed to be threatened. Instead of attacking or even barking at the cloaked Suliban on the ship in “Cold Front,” he wags his tail and looks happy. Porthos is no help at all when Ferengi board the ship in “Acquisition” and ends up in a packing crate because of it. He does successfully communicate the jizz alien threat in “Vox Sola” to Archer via barking, so at least that’s something.

Winner: Porthos. Data’s cat knows to be distrustful at first and will use her talons when it’s asked of her! But it's all conjecture if she's actually do any good during a real threat, while Porthos at least has history of barking at enemies to alert his masters.

—

4. Animal relationships

Spot: We know that Spot has gotten busy with one of at least twelve male cats on the Enterprise because she’s pregnant in “Genesis.” We don’t know much about how she got along with any of these superfluous cats, but we do know that she had a litter of beautiful kittens later that episode, and we squee so hard to see adorable kittens for even the brief moment they’re on screen. It’s really one of that episode’s few highlights.

Porthos: During the run of Enterprise, the only time we see Porthos interacting with another animal is when he’s vacationing on Risa with John in “Two Days and Two Nights.” Their shady-ass neighbor during their stay has a Chinese crested named Rhylo, and the two puppies don’t seem to get along! All they do is growl at each other. Where was this Porthos when there were actual threats on the ship for our category above?

Winner: Spot. One word: KITTENS! You always win with kittens.

—

5. Obedience

Spot: An entirely unnecessary sideplot during “Force of Nature” surrounds Data attempting to train Spot, to absolutely no avail. Geordi had apparently borrowed the feline to explore the lifestyle of cat ownership, and I’m sure he learned it wasn’t for him when Spot destroyed his stuff and then escaped. We also see that, while Data’s thought and effort to train Spot failed, her sneaky training of Data succeeded!

Porthos: A generally good boy most of the time, the only bad thing we could really blame on Porthos is when he pissed on the Kreetassans’ sacred tree in “A Night in Sickbay.” I’d mostly put the blame for that on Archer though, since he’s the one that brought the dog down planetside in the first place. A dog needs somewhere to piss after all, and we don’t even know what the protocol on the ship even is. Here’s hoping it was crewman Daniels that had to clean it up.

Winner: Porthos. What a good boy! Porthos generally doesn’t misbehave, especially when he might get some nice cheese as a treat. Spot on the other hand. She doesn’t even know that down is good and up is no.

—

6. Advancing the plot

Spot: Spot’s presence on the ship was critical for a couple of episodes too. When Data’s “Ode to Spot” starts appearing around the ship in “A Fistful of Datas,” the crew get clued into there being something wrong with the ship’s systems. And of course it’s the fact that her kittens come out as kittens while the rest of the crew is devolving into mutants during “Genesis” that allows Data and Picard to figure out a way to get everyone back to their correct states of being.

Porthos: Obviously, Porthos was a main factor during “A Night in Sickbay,” where his illness was the motivator behind Archer’s whole emotional state. However, most of those emotions were various forms of anger directed at the Kreetassans. A less anger-inducing example comes in “Chosen Realm” when Archer sends the “do not feed him cheese” message to Phlox in order to covertly pass information to the doctor.

Winner: Spot. Listen, the kittens were a part of this again, and whenever the kittens come up, they get extra points.

—

7. Inspirational quotes

Spot: Hey, it’s hard coming up with enough categories to fill a blogpost about two animals on Star Trek who are mostly there to give their owners something to care for. So consider this an excuse to talk about Data’s poem “An Ode to Spot” that we hear in “A Fistful of Datas.” It’s so damn cute for the android to want to express his feelings for his kitty, even when he’ll claim up and down that androids don’t experience emotions. This poem is proof!

Porthos: This one’s a stretch but it allowed me to include this category. When Porthos gets to go on an away mission in “Strange New World,” Tucker declares: “Where no dog has gone before.” Is it a good reference? Not really. But it’s certainly a milestone to have humans and canines making strides in the galaxy. That’s one small woof for a pup. One heckin’ bork for dogkind.

Winner: Spot. “An Ode to Spot” is so good there’s a whole Hallmark ornament of it. And when you press the button, it plays Data’s reading of the poem. The whole poem. That certainly beats a pun.

—

8. Eating habits

Spot: This feline is known to be very picky. So picky that Data has arduously been sampling at least 221 different formulas to try to find something she likes, as we learn in “Phantasms.” She hasn’t liked most of them, though her favorite does seem to be supplement 25.

Porthos: Give this boy some cheese! We first see in “Fight or Flight” that Archer can’t resist those puppy eyes when they pine for a piece of cheese, even though it definitely upsets Porthos’s tummy. In “Dear Doctor,” he’s in medbay with gastrointestinal distress caused by too much dairy. When Phlox is caring for him, we also see the two of them snacking on leeches together in “Doctor’s Orders,” supposedly with the possible side effect of clearing out his intestinal tract. He also refused to eat liver with shredded cheddar, usually his favorite, when he was moping about the presumed dead Archer in “Storm Front.”

Winner: Porthos: Cheese is indeed delicious, so we can get onboard with at least some of Porthos’s culinary favorites. As for the leeches… Well, what flavor are they?

—

9. Appearances in dreams

Spot: When Data is dreaming all over the place in “Birthright,” the whole escapade culminates with Spot in the captain’s chair on the bridge of the Enterprise-D and Data having a chat with his old man. Turns out it’s all been a part of Data’s programming, and seeing things that he connects with in his dreams is something Noonien Soong had planned as a next level for Data to explore. Thanks, dad!

Porthos: In the complete inverse of that whimsical (if stupid) Data plot, the dream that Archer has of Porthos in “A Night in Sickbay” is traumatizing. Archer is stressing out that Porthos won’t get over his Kreetassan illness and envisions a dog funeral attended by the rest of the crew. And then it turns into a sex dream about T’Pol (because they always do!) and it’s all just terrible.

Winner: Spot. Captain Spot! Now that’s an officer I can really get behind. And it’s a way better dream than a stress dream!

—

10. Other versions

Spot: The final category that I could think of is mostly an excuse to share a screenshot of Spot after she’s turned into an iguana in “Genesis.” That episode is so damn ridiculous. The rest of the crew is morphing into cool monsters, but they literally just swap in a normal iguana for Spot. At least make a puppet! And we haven’t even touched on the early appearances of Spot when she was apparently a Somali cat. Wonder what happened there?

Porthos: While the hosts of A Star to Steer Her By rarely agree on our opinions of the mirror universe, the reveal of mirror Porthos in “In a Mirror, Darkly” is a damn fine gag. Instead of the sweet, lovable beagle that Porthos is in the prime universe, he’s a Rottweiler who looks like he really wants to take a chomp out of Mayweather. Ya know, like everyone in the mirror universe.

Winner: Porthos. Rotties are beautiful puppers, even if they often get a bad rap. It’s a good and fitting reveal to see this alternative version of Porthos, while it’s just confounding and a missed opportunity for Spot to be an iguana.

—

Verdict

Did I consciously engineer this to end in a tie at 5 points apiece? Of course I did, and I’m glad it went this way because both Spot and Porthos are the best critters! We love them both, and it’s been a lot of fun having an excuse to highlight them for the blog this week. We could have created a tie-breaker question (like we did in the Yar-Ro post, which somehow ended up backfiring on us in the same way), but it’s really just the perfect conclusion because kitties and doggies are both good boys and girls!

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Give your kitty or puppy a hug from everyone at A Star to Steer Her By! And also make sure you’re following along here because next week is going to be a doozy! We’re wrapping the first season of Discovery in our watch-through on the podcast over at SoundCloud or wherever you listen, so make sure you're caught up! You can also meow or bork at us over on Facebook or Bluesky. Now who wants some cheese?

[soapdispensersalesman]

[rouge-the-bat]

HELL YES HELL YESS YAR HAR HAR I GOT REMUX MKV FILES FOR THE YYH CONTENT THAT WAS ONLY RELEASED IN BLURAY-QUALITY FOR THE JAPAN-EXCLUSIVE 25TH ANNIVERSARY BOX SET THAT FOR SOME REASON WASNT ON THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY BOX SET !!!!!! poltergeist report and golden seal look so beautiful in 1080p im screaming and combusting