Data logger

A data logger or datalogger is an electronic device that records data over time or in relation to location by means of instruments and sensors of its own or connected externally. Almost all are based on microcontrollers. They are usually small, battery-powered, portable, and equipped with a microprocessor, internal memory for data storage, and sensors. Some data loggers communicate with a personal computer and use specific software to activate the data logger,view and analyze the collected data, while others have a local interface device (keyboard, LCD screen) and can be used as a standalone device.

Data loggers range from general purpose loggers for a wide range of applications to very specific measuring devices for measuring in a particular environment or application. It is common for general purpose types to be programmable however many remain static machines with a limited number of variable parameters. Electronic data loggers have replaced letter loggers in many applications.

One of the main benefits of using data loggers is the ability to automatically collect data 24 hours a day. Upon activation, data loggers are typically left unanswered to measure and record information for the entire duration of the tracking period. This allows a global and accurate view of the environmental conditions being monitored, such as air temperature and relative humidity.

The cost of data loggers has been decreasing over the years as technology improves and costs are reduced.

Some uses

· Monitoring of temperature and humidity levels in manufacturing environments, storage facilities, hospitals, and other public facilities.

· Monitor food temperature at all stages of processing and transportation.

· Monitor HVAC conditions in industrial and commercial facilities.

· Monitor manufacturing processes of all kinds.

· Monitor growing conditions in greenhouses and farms.

· Monitor the environmental conditions of pharmaceutical products during manufacturing and storage.

· Monitoring of seismic activities in heavy seismic active areas.

Features to consider:

· Sampling frequency

· Ticket types

· Channel count

· Data storage

· Recording times

· User Interface

· Local monitoring

· Power system

· Cost

Where are data loggers required?

EC Directive 92/1, as well as FDA regulations in the U.S., state that, throughout its preparation, storage, and transportation, food must be monitored to ensure temperatures remain at required levels. This is the ideal application for data loggers that can record temperature at regular intervals over a very long period of time.

Vaccines and other medicines must be kept at strict temperatures during manufacturing, packaging, storage and transport.

HVAC systems in hospitals and other public places must be constantly monitored to ensure the safety and comfort of the people who use them. These include not only temperature and humidity, but also CO2 (carbon dioxide) level detection, ventilation, and more.

The EU, USA And other countries have various requirements related to energy efficiency and consumption. Constant monitoring is the only way to ensure and demonstrate compliance.

If you're making long-term measurements of voltage, current, temperature, and related sensors that span days, weeks, and months, data loggers are ideal measuring instruments.