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What
is a portable data logger?
A
data logger is an electronic instrument that records measurements (temperature
data logger, humidity data logger, light intensity, on/off, open/closed, voltage and events)
over time. Typically, data loggers are small, battery-powered devices that are
equipped with a microprocessor, data storage and sensor. Most data loggers rely
on turn-key software on a personal computer to initiate the logger and view
the collected data. Where
are data loggers used? Who uses them? Remotes data
loggers are used in anywhere you want the convenience of battery
power to record measurements. They are ideal for those involved with field
studies, transportation monitoring, HVAC tests, troubleshooting, quality
studies, general research, and educational science. Temperature data loggers and
humidity data loggers are the most popular kind of remote data
loggers. Hobbyists can even use data
loggers since they are economically priced and easy-to-use. Remote data loggers can be
used in a a wide variety of applications. Their small size makes data loggers
ideal for mounting in out-of-the-way locations How
does a data logger work? First,
connect your remote portable data logger to a personal computer. Then use the turn-key software
to select logging parameters (sampling intervals, start time, etc.) and initiate
the logger. Disconnect the logger and deploy it in the desired location. The
logger records each measurement and stores it in memory along with the time and
date. Reconnect your portable data logger to the personal computer and use the software to
readout the data and see these measurements as a graph, showing the profile over
time. The tabular data can be viewed as well, or exported to a spreadsheet for
further manipulation. What
is a data shuttle? A
data shuttle is a pocket-sized device that can be used to offload/restart
multiple data loggers and transport the data back to a personal computer
allowing the remote data loggers to stay in place for continuous monitoring/recording.
Connect the Shuttle to a PC and use the vendor-supplied software to readout and
view the data from the Shuttle. Why
are data loggers replacing so many chart recorders? It's
like asking why CDs replaced albums! Portable data loggers incorporate the latest in
digital technology which makes them smaller, less expensive, more accurate and
more reliable than chart recorders. Further, you get your data in PC format
which allows for more convenient data analysis, presentation and storage. Remote
data
loggers don't require costly and inconvenient chart supplies because you view
data on a PC or laptop. Why
choose portable data loggers over other data acquisition systems? Some
data acquisition systems require the installation of a DA card in a PC and the
connection and wiring of sensors. These systems work well in permanently
configured, on-line applications but can be costly and difficult to implement.
They offer the benefit of portability a as a remote data logger or a portable
data logger does. Portable data loggers significantly reduce the price per channel for most logging
applications and are significantly easier to implement and can be placed in
areas that permanent digital systems can not reach. What
to look for in a remote data logger? Ease of
use, reliability, accuracy and value. What
to look for from a data logger manufacturer? Time-proven experience, in-house manufacturing, a large customer base, and knowledgeable, helpful sales and support people. |
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