EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DATA LOGGERS
- A data logger is a small device used to monitor temperature, humidity, electrical power or pressure, and other environmental changes and record them if needed. The data recorded can be then analysed and documented for research or application purposes. The entire process is known as “data logging” and extends over days, weeks and even months of continuous readings and recording.
- These are the different types of days loggers currently available in the Australian market, which measure:
- High and low temperatures of surfaces and even liquids.
- Analyse pressure and pressure changes in both gases and fluids.
- Those can record the change in voltage.
- Analyse the change in current or electrical power and fluctuations in AC or DC.
- Record vibration or shocks.
- Used in strain gauges and global positioning sensors.
- Humidity, the concentration of water vapour or dew point.
- How They Work:
- A data logger consists of a microprocessor and memory storage housed in a protective casing. The most commonly available data logging devices are small, highly portable, battery-powered, and can record data over long periods. These devices can be used in interface with a personal computer or used locally and wirelessly connected to a viewing device or software. The amount of time it can record depends upon the memory capacity and the battery present. There are data logging devices that can go weeks on a single battery capacity.
- The data can be accessed through their software or by a computer, and the data can be printed out and analysed. Certain logging devices are also capable of transmitting the recorded data wirelessly to any device connected. Being very versatile, data loggers are capable of recording data without the need for a personal computer.
- Applications of Data Logging Devices:
- Measure and monitor temperature and humidity changes of different storage facilities and transportation sectors.
- Provide insights into temperature, ventilation, heating and other variables in building maintenance and construction.
- Monitor the conditions for growth and cultivation in agricultural industries and nurseries.
- For medicinal purposes such as storage of vaccination vials and other medicines.
- For detecting changes in temperature of food and storage of perishable items.
- Increased applications in the automotive and other construction industries are expected to raise the demand for data loggers globally. In the construction industries, data loggers are used in tunnel monitoring, measuring structural integrity and land deformation phenomena like landslides, floods and weather conditions.
- Advantages of Data Loggers:
- Being capable of independent recording, data loggers don’t require a technician or engineer working on-site for their maintenance.
- Effective memory storage and enhanced battery capacity enable it to record data for long periods without any breaks.
- Due to its versatility, data loggers can be placed in those areas where an individual cannot stay for long periods. This includes areas of extreme temperatures or those prone to landslides and heavy weather conditions.
- They are also capable of withstanding the temperature mentioned above extremes and weather conditions.
- They are easy to use and don’t require any coding or software programming experience as everything is configured and ready to use.
- Due to the portable build of the data logging device, they cost less than many complex data logging equipment in the market.
- Remotely placed data loggers can transmit recorded information wirelessly without the need for constant manual handling on site. This saves a large amount of money as well as time due to the lack of travel necessities.