Tuesday, August 15, 2017

Tips When You Buy Data Logging Sensors

By Harold Cook


Data loggers are electronic devices that, over time, records information with an instrument or sensor which are either built in or external ones. They are usually portable, battery powered and small which are equipped with internal memory used for info storage and microprocessor. Some use personal computers with a software that interface and activates them or have a local interface.

They have different purposes for general or specific measurement applications and when activated, are left for a certain time. Data logging sensors can be programmed but there are those that are static and their parameters are allowed limited changes only. Here are a few tips when you buy one for the need you particularly have.

Determine what measurement accuracy is needed for the info you would be monitoring such as room or storage temperature. They have various specifications and understanding requirements will help to avoid paying more for unnecessary accuracy. Resolution is another essential factor though having a higher one does not guarantee that its accuracy is better.

Accessing information in these devices can be done in different ways with some having USB interface directly connected to computers. But bringing a computer to a site or bringing the device back to your office is impractical and inconvenient. You can use a data shuttle that could retrieve the info they collected without interrupting or moving the logger.

There are many software packages used in graphing and analysis though search for intuitive ones which have a minimal learning curve. Tasks such as launching the logger, configuring parameters and offloading data must be quickly and easily done. They must have capabilities in cropping, appending, merging and plotting information which could be exported easily.

When you purchase them, make sure environmental conditions of that area you would place them can be withstood by their enclosure. Hard plastic would be enough to monitor office hallways while non condensing areas need one that has moisture protection. Inquire the availability of protective cases that suits situations which require increased protection and durability.

These devices consume very low energy but their battery life varies greatly because their sample rates might not be similar with the environmental conditions. Make sure to select one which has a battery that will last for one year at least. Inquire if their batteries could be easily replaced by users and if specialized batteries are used or standard household ones only.

Loggers generally are easy to use with technical assistance being rare required even during the first phases of using them. But because this product is highly technological, you may want to ask some questions regarding them so check if your supplier offers support services. These preferably should include resources based on telephone and internet and these services could be enjoyed longer if they have financial stability as well.

Search for a supplier that offers reliable performance on different monitoring environments like outdoors, indoors or underwater. This will be your assurance of their expertise and knowledgeable in understanding, assessing, and meeting your needs currently and in the future. In case environmental conditions will not meet the set tolerance range, ask them regarding alarm capabilities.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment