Until fairly recent years, you would have used some sort of a chart recorder to record a set of ever-changing data for a given time interval. These mechanical devices can work with either a wind-up spring motor, or with an electrical motor. Sometimes, these devices may still be the most suitable for a given job. Largely, though, they’ve been replaced by data logger devices.
Data loggers are purely electronic devices that can gather data via their own built-in sensors, or via external sensors. Generally speaking, they’re portable, battery-powered, and make use of an on-board microprocessor. Stand-alone logging devices could have built-in keyboards and displays. Alternatively, they could hold data in memory, so that they may be later retrieved via a regular computer. Data may be displayed on a computer either via an Excel spreadsheet or graph, or via the logger’s own proprietary software. Some models have wireless capabilities, which would enable them to send constant streams of data back to the home base.
Search on the web, and you’ll see a wide range of data logger. Prices range from the inexpensive, to thousands of dollars. There are lots of vendors, selling devices for almost any type of data that can be measured.
Many vendors have prominent web-front stores, and sell a very large range of devices. There are devices for use by homeowners, electricians, weather researchers, network technicians, etc. It would seem that there’s something there for pretty much everyone.
A homeowner might be interested in energy audit and monitoring devices. There are several different types, including one type that can measure the power draw of an electrical appliance. Then, it’ll automatically calculate the annual energy cost for that appliance. Another type of monitoring kit will allow a homeowner to keep an eye on room temperature throughout the house.
Logging devices for industrial or small business use include monitors for HVAC, greenhouses, refrigeration units, or air quality. Air quality monitors can keep a constant check on levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, or other gasses. Use these in closed spaces, where there may be a danger that these gasses may accumulate.
Taxi cab companies, trucking companies, or any other fleet operator, could benefit from using automotive data loggers. These small devices, when connected to a vehicle’s OBD-II port, can track many different data. They can monitor fuel economy, engine performance, and how the driver is operating the vehicle. Devices with wireless capabilities can allow an operator at a base station to view real-time data as a vehicle is being driven. An auto mechanic can use OBD-II devices to help diagnose engine problems.
For weather researchers, there are several types of monitoring solutions. Some are monitors for specific weather data, such as wind, temperature, humidity, soil moisture content, or rainfall. There are also complete weather monitoring stations, which can monitor multiple types of weather data.
Operators of grain elevators or mines, where combustible dust or gas may be present, would have to use monitoring devices that are “intrinsically safe”. These devices are designed so that they won’t create sparks that could cause explosions.
When you shop for a logging solution, be aware of what the purchase price includes. Many times, the required sensors are sold separately from the data logger device itself.
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