What is a Data Logger Used For?
Before discussing a Data Logger‘s various uses and applications, one must understand its definition. A Data Logger is an electronic device or instrument that you can use to record data over time and at intervals. It has different types that register additional data and vary in application.
What is a Data Logger?
The Data Logger is an electronic device, which records data over specific timings. Some of the essential parameters that it records include temperature, pressure shock, current, humidity, or voltage. The functions of recording such data apply to facilities such as factories and other industrial locations. It can also measure and record the data of carbon dioxide, pH balance, pulse, and pressure. Hence, Data Loggers have extensive and diverse use. An electronic device consists of internal memory for storage, a microprocessor for operations, and sensors indicating and identifying the variable data in its most basic form.
More complex Data Loggers have features comprising control functions, input keypad, LCD screen, and communications that include email and messaging. Some loggers are design-specific for environments and applications, while others provide versatility. They can operate as standalone devices or be connected to a computer for data download or configuration. These Data Loggers range in complexity; some devices are more economical and have a single channel fixed function, while others have the computing power to process multiple data at a time.
Data Logger Advantages
Data Loggers are superior in data recording when comparing them to other instruments because of their simplicity. Once configured, there is no need to connect them to a computer for them to function. Their ability to run unattended for several months provides a more detailed picture of their monitoring conditions. The data they gather over a long period is more precise and accurate because of the overtime analysis. The recorded data can encompass electrical data, harmonics, and temperature and then download them into a computer for further display and analysis.
How is a Data Logger Used?
Data Loggers help record parameters and data without being physically present on the site. It not only helps record but also continuously monitors the parameters. Typically, occupants who use Data Loggers include facility managers, engineers, energy auditors, water engineers, environmental consultants, and other professionals who need to record and check a given facility.
Research scientists can also use Data Loggers to run their research regarding environmental and electrical variables. Furthermore, a Data Logger can help energy auditors determine how many electrical energy units a particular facility uses in a month. Similarly, it can help environmental consultants figure out how much carbon emits in a given industrial facility.
By tracking the proper electrical usage of a facility, an operator can easily manage peak demands by keeping track of a facility’s energy output, reducing costs. Engineers can also monitor electrical, mechanical, and other performance problems with the help of Data Loggers. These loggers not only identify the problems but also monitor the corrective measures. They become crucial for fine-tuning and addressing the effectiveness of the corrective actions.
Air quality loggers, such as Temperature/Humidity Data Loggers, can monitor indoor air temperature and quality. They also monitor water usage, including temperature, flow, and pressure. Data Loggers mostly come with software that integrates the data and performs tasks. This software also provides data graphing, export, and report generation. Real-time measurements and configuration are also possible with the use of a Data Logger.
Types of Data Logger
Many different factors will affect which is the most suitable Data Logger. Speak to a packaging consultant to help decide on the most relevant for each industry and application.
Input Signal
Some Data Loggers have a design that only allows a single input, such as current or voltage. However, others come with a multi-channel design that configures many inputs. For this application, the size of the Data Logger becomes a factor.
Size
Size is also a critical selection factor; a higher memory recording rate requires extra storage. Thus, determining the memory-recording rate and duration when selecting a Data Logger is essential. This information helps calculate the required memory and is pivotal when determining the Data Logger price. In some applications, it is more beneficial to display measurement data in real-time. By doing so, the status of the system while the recording progresses can be monitored. The alarm function is also essential when monitoring a parameter that needs to restrict its critical range, for example, Temperature/Humidity Data Loggers monitoring at a cold storage facility.
Accuracy
Accuracy specifications vary widely in terms of different types of Data Loggers. Understanding the exact and accurate measurement required can prevent the purchase of the wrong Data Logger.
Location
The Data Logger‘s design should be specific to adhering to the particular location’s conditions and environment. Alternatively, general-purpose Data Loggers can suffice in any site regardless of the requirements.
Data Download
Data can be downloaded by removing the instrument’s memory card and inserting it into the computer. In environments where this imposes difficulty, instruments that can communicate directly to the computer through USB cables, WiFi, or Bluetooth will be helpful.
Conclusion
Consider the range and accuracy needed before investing in a Data Logger. Data Loggers include a wide variety of prices, sizes, consistencies, and applications. They continuously evaluate and monitor parameters without human involvement.