Data loggers are becoming more and more popular in business, whether it is just one to record sensor data or a whole system of interconnected devices. For businesses and organizations, data logging can be invaluable. Because there are so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to find one that meets your specific needs, but with the proper criteria, it is easy to narrow down your search and purchase something valuable in your organization or business.
Here are five things to look for in a data logger when buying something new or considering an upgrade.
- What It Can Monitor
One of the main things to consider when purchasing a data logger is what you want to monitor. This can include temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and more. For example, businesses that have warehouses might want to purchase data loggers that track temperature and humidity because they are an excellent indicator of how well their products are stored over time.
These loggers can be placed directly onto shelves or boxes and provide vital information on how your inventory is faring and how it might be affected by extreme heat or low moisture levels. Make sure you know exactly what you want before selecting a data logger. Doing so will help ensure that you do not purchase something with features you will not use.
- Different Monitoring Types
There are many different kinds of data loggers on the market, but they all fall into two basic categories: discrete and continuous. Discrete data loggers take measurements at predefined intervals, such as every five minutes. Continuous data loggers record measurements continuously at all times.
For example, a hospital may choose continuous logging because it wants more frequent patient monitoring and real-time information—say for vaccine temperatures or surgical rooms. On the other hand, some organizations might benefit from discrete logging to monitor high-volume periods and analyze changes in the data.
Another important consideration is whether you are looking for an analog or digital logger. There has been much progress when it comes to data logger evolution. Analog loggers are the more traditional method and usually require an employee to record information by hand, whereas digital trackers use electronic devices to store your data.
Digital models are typically more expensive than analog ones, but they are easier to use and have additional features like internal memory, internet connectivity, automatic cloud storage, and more. Depending on what you want to track, you may need different data loggers.
- Accuracy
The data logger you choose must be accurate and reliable. These devices should make things easier for you, and you should feel confident that you are getting the best readings. These days, most data loggers are highly accurate and can measure environmental factors within +/- 0.5℃, depending on your needs.
However, there can still be a slight possibility for errors. The range is usually expressed as a percentage of reading error—the margin that readings may vary without significantly affecting their accuracy. This can help you pick the correct data logger to monitor your environment.
- Calibration
The accuracy of all measurements hinges on good calibration. It can be easy to overlook calibration when comparing different data loggers, but it is extremely important. Knowing the calibration requirements for digital data loggers in your industry is an excellent way to ensure that you get a device that meets your needs. Ensure that you know your data logger’s temperature calibration range and how often it should be recalibrated.
You also want to ensure that you are purchasing from a company with plenty of experience in providing precision laboratory instruments, so you know they are using quality control procedures when manufacturing your data logger. Furthermore finally, look for a data logger with calibration options – such as built-in automatic recalibration at regular intervals or an external recalibration port – which will allow you to recalibrate regularly while minimizing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Other Features
While it might seem like you can make do with just any data logger, you should keep some key features in mind as you shop around. Do you need wireless connectivity? How about battery backup power? If so, does it need to support more than one device? What about mobile app compatibility or data visualization tools?
You may also want to find a system that includes extra features like scheduling, so you do not have to spend any time setting up automatic backups and syncing. Finally, be sure to consider if durability is essential. If it is, you may want to look for something designed specifically for harsh conditions or environments.
It is also essential to think about what you will use your logger for. If your business or organization uses data loggers regularly, choosing one with an easy-to-use interface could be crucial. This helps make sure that anyone who works with the system will be able to get up to speed quickly and easily. It will also allow for more flexibility if you use it on-site at various locations and want employees to have access from their phones.
See How a Data Logger Can Help with Your Environment Monitoring Needs
The biggest challenge that businesses and organizations face is finding a data logger that supports their unique and challenging applications. Whether you are building an application from scratch or upgrading an existing system, choosing the correct data logger can mean avoiding costly issues. A good data logger should be easy to configure and be able to scale as needs change.
There are many things that your business or organization might need an automated recorder for, including temperature levels, humidity, differential pressure, and more. This can be especially useful if you need to monitor and record somewhat complex data sets over time. These recordings can help you stay aware of what is happening in your environment and fix any problems that may occur before they turn into something bigger.
Now that you know what you should look for when deciding on which data logger is right for your business or organization, you will be able to keep track of your important data without missing a beat!
