subject: What To Consider When Choosing A Data Logger [print this page] Data loggers are small, portable, battery powered devices which incorporate a microprocessor, sensors, and internal memory where the data is stored. They are used to record data in the course of periods of time, or data with respect to locations. They incorporate built-in sensors, or they can also use external sensors. In conformity with the developments in technology, data loggers are based on digital processors, or computers. When considering the choice of data logging devices, it is necessary to have knowledge on the types available and what advantages they offer, in order to conform to the specific purposes and peculiarities in the environment where such data loggers are to be used.
Size is among the most important factor for data logger choice. Although smaller loggers are more expensive, they are compact, which can be a significant advantage in applications such as monitoring products during transportation, or when small products are monitored.
Another factor in choosing data logging devices is the type of interfacing. There are two types of data loggers. One type comprises devices that can interface with personal computers in order to employ software for data logger activation, as well as for the viewing and analysis of the data collected. The other main data logger type comprises data loggers which employ a local interface device, such as a keypad or LCD, and that enables their use as stand alone devices.
Yet another factor in choosing data logging devices is the range of values they are to be used to measure. Data loggers can be of the general purpose type, and as such they can measure a range of values. There are also specialised loggers which are designed for measuring one type of value or in one environment only, such as temperature data loggers or pressure data loggers. General purpose data logging devices are typically programmable; they can also be used as static devices which have just a limited number of parameters, or they can have no changeable parameters.
Temperature data loggers are among the most frequently used devices. They can be used to monitor the temperature of shipments in cold chains, or temperature controlled supply chains, and to measure and record temperatures in different field conditions. When choosing temperature data loggers, there are a number of factors that are taken into consideration. In addition to the cost, battery life, temperature range, accuracy, water resistance, weight and mounting method, software used are the major factors considered in order to choose the appropriate temperature data loggers.
There are also other factors influencing the choice of data loggers, such as necessary data logger speed and amount of memory needed. Chosen correctly for the purpose and the environment in which they are to operate, data loggers offer the advantage of automatically collecting data without interruption, on a 24 hour basis.
