| Data Loggers are an essential component of | | | | battery-backed static random access memory, |
| sensors and instruments. This electronic device | | | | flash memory or EEPROM. |
| records data according to a predefined need over | | | | Logging units range from simple single channel |
| time and in relation to a location. | | | | input units to versatile multi-channel instruments. A |
| Modern loggers are based on a digital processor | | | | rule of thumb would be that the simpler the |
| and integrated data loggers interface with | | | | device the less customisable its functions. |
| computing systems and related software to | | | | 4 Main Types of Data Loggers |
| analysis the collected information. The advantage | | | | 1. Low-cost Compact Single Input Loggers |
| of a central computer interface is immediately | | | | Very specific non-customisable function. For |
| apparent to larger operations that may need to | | | | example: a temperature data logging in a storage |
| act quickly on information from a variety of data | | | | room. |
| loggers at a variety of locations. Smaller logging | | | | 2. Fixed Multi-Channel Loggers |
| units, typically stand-alone devices, may come | | | | Mounted units used to collect varied types of data |
| with a small attached LCD screen and keypad for | | | | in a single location. For example: RH, pressure |
| data that may not require immediate responses. | | | | readings and leak detection data in a |
| Data Loggers and Data Acquisition: | | | | manufacturing plant. |
| From a terminology perspective, instrument | | | | 3. Handheld Multi-Channel Loggers |
| manufacturers often make a distinction between | | | | Portable units. For example: laboratory sampling |
| a standalone logger and those with direct contact | | | | worktops or field data acquisition such as weather |
| with a computer-interface by referring to the first | | | | conditions. |
| as a 'data logger' and the latter as a 'data | | | | 4. Modular Data Loggers |
| acquisition system'. Typically using the word 'data | | | | A configurable data logging component with can |
| logger' implies slower processing speeds and | | | | be plugged into an existing system for custom |
| onboard storage even though both phrases can | | | | solutions. A modular logger is considered to flexible |
| be used interchangeably. More sophisticated | | | | and is build with scalability and easy systems |
| loggers that can be integrated with industrial | | | | integration in mind. For example: a temperature |
| systems and alarms make continuous, remote | | | | data logger that can be built into a Programmable |
| monitoring a relatively easy task. | | | | Logic Controller to ensure alarms are triggered on |
| Temperature, relative humidity, air pressure and a | | | | overheating. |
| variety of environmental conditions can now be | | | | Although manufacturers are using more and more |
| logged from electrical signals and stored in an | | | | standardising protocols it is a good idea to enquire |
| internal memory unit for later download to a | | | | about the compatibility of each of your process |
| computer. The fact that loggers are deployed and | | | | control components. Instrument protocols such as |
| often only checked sporadically elevates the need | | | | Smart Protocol, MODBUS standards and Canbus |
| to install reliable and sturdy loggers from the | | | | are the most common. Some data logging |
| onset. Onboard storage requires some form of | | | | manufacturers make a point of utilising flexible |
| date or time stamping to organise the data in a | | | | scripting in order to allow a unit to interact with |
| coherent manner. This memory may be | | | | non-standard protocols. |