Understanding the Working of a Temperature Data Logger

A temperature data logger is a portable temperature measuring device. This instrument is capable of recording temperature variations automatically over time. It is also known as a data logger. In this post, we have discussed the working of the data logger in detail.

How Does It Work?

The temperature data logger has three components – a sensor that collects temperature data, an internal memory to store temperature readings, and a microprocessor. The data logger is a small, battery-powered computer that can also be carried along. The computer passes small voltage through the thermocouple that is also known as A to D converter.

The analogue to digital converter in the device takes the digitised measurement and saves the data in its memory. The A/D converter works all the time. It continues to break the analogue signal at regular intervals and converts into digital signals. You need to connect the device to a computer to view and analyse the recorded temperature data. It can also work as a standalone device that can connect wirelessly to any device with the required software to read the data.

One of the advantages of data loggers is you don’t need a computer to access recorded data. These data acquisition devices are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The range of devices includes simple devices with single-channel and fixed-function and programmable temperature monitors that can handle diverse inputs. Some of the factors that differ in various data logger models are:

Resolution
Measurement accuracy
Display
Data Access
Software

Despite the different factors, the working of all types of data loggers is the same.

How to Access Data From a Temperature Data Logger?

Once the temperature readings are recorded, you need to download this data for viewing and analysis. A temperature data logger allows you to download in two different ways. Depending on the make and model of a data logger, it may support one or both modes of data transfer.

USB – It is the least convenient method of data transfer. You need to connect the data logger to your computer using a USB cable and then access and download data from the device.

Bluetooth – The Bluetooth data logger gives you freedom from connecting and disconnecting devices. You can access the data directly from the device through an app. The data can be viewed in the app even when your data logger is inside the packaging. This makes data review and analysis relatively easy.

What Is the Accuracy of the Temperature Readings?

The accuracy of the temperature readings varies with the type of data logger. In general, the accuracy of your data logger depends on the number of increments of a value it is capable of reporting.

For example, a 12-bit resolution data logger temperature can report 4,096 values over a specified temperature range. A 16-bit resolution temperature logger would have a higher capacity of reporting increment values at a given temperature range. Hence, it would be more accurate than a 12-bit resolution temperature recording device.

The temperature recording device is an essential tool in various industries to maintain the right environment. The post has provided essential information on the working of a device that can be useful when selecting a device.

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