What is data logging?
As science and technology have developed, so the need for data
collection and analysis has grown. This is fulfilled, at least in
part, by dedicated, microprocessor-driven data loggers.
The modern data logger is typically a hand-held battery-operated
device with a large memory, powered by the latest microprocessor
technology and capable of acquiring, processing, storing and
analysing electrical signals at high speed from a wide range of
sensors - at regular intervals or in response to an event such as a
threshold being crossed or a switch being activated.
The sensors may communicate with the logger through a cable or
wireless link and may sense temperature, humidity, pressure, flow,
wind speed, current, voltage, resistance and a host of other
physical parameters that are important in monitoring and
controlling processes or conducting research.
Data stored by stand-alone data loggers is typically downloaded
into a computer for more detailed analysis and reporting, though
some data loggers have sophisticated on-board processing and
analysis capability and can carry out some control functions such
as activating an alarm or a switch.
The advantage of using a dedicated portable data logger compared
to, say, a PC, is that the logger hardware and software are
specifically designed for stand-alone data logging applications.
This means that it is easy to connect and set up sensors and the
logging system is more rugged and less power hungry, making it
capable of running on batteries for longer periods of time, often
in hostile environments.
The advent of wireless communication and networking means that
it is possible to interrogate a logger remotely which can be
extremely useful for unattended or remote applications.