Using a Data Logger to Capture Data Saves Time and Cost
Nowadays, every business and organization across every industry has heard about the benefits of collecting data. However, many people don’t know the best way to get started: for example, what device should you use, with what features and for what price?
By using a data logger, you can collect, store and present your data to your vendors, managers, or product inspectors. At CAS DataLoggers, we receive dozens of calls every day from people who know they need to capture data, but also want to know how to begin their applications as soon as possible. Read on to learn some basics and where to go from there!
What is Data Logging?
Data loggers use sensors (either internal or external) to take physical/electrical readings over a short- or long-term period. These devices automatically sample data (such as the surrounding temperature or humidity), which removes the need for personnel to spend time taking manual measurements. Many data logger product lines also offer high-accuracy models and/or calibration to ensure that all their readings are within a certain accuracy.
Why Should I Use a Data Logger?
You can put the data you collect not only to the specific use you have in mind, but perhaps also to more general uses which give you more info on your product or industrial/lab process. For example, heat treatment processes can improve performance qualification by using data to create oven temperature profiles. Another common example is that many users purchase a temperature data logger to view how often a medical or food storage unit is opened throughout the day, or as a reliable gauge of worker productivity by shift, week and month.
How Do I Start Collecting Data?
First look at the value you need to record and how long you need to record it. A very common data logging application is logging temperature over the long term, such as Food & Beverage products in trucks or in storage.
For data loggers with internal sensors, simply place the logger as close as possible to the thing you want to monitor, whether it’s a perishable product, the outside of a medical storage unit, or the wall next to a steam pipe.
What Do I Need to Do Once the Logger is Set Up?
If your application is a simple one, the answer may be nothing! Using the temperature monitoring example above, all you need to monitor your Food & Beverage products is a standalone data logger. These devices operate on battery power, so they can monitor and store data all on their own. They can also go into alarm state, with many models supporting remote alarm capability, sending out emails, text messages, etc.
For more complicated applications, an experienced solutions provider can offer you a number of customized devices to fit your needs. These can include high-speed systems for labs and research, bar code scanners, data acquisition systems—almost any application imaginable!
How Do I Present the Data?
After collecting data, the benefits come from presenting your results to your audience, whether that’s your own customers, vendors, or government regulators.
Presenting your data is easy! Using data logger software, you can show your results in the form of professional charts, graphs and reports. Many software packages can export your logger’s data to common spreadsheet formats such as Microsoft Excel™. This allows you to reach the greatest audience to get the results you want.
For our free Data Logger Product Selection Guide, or to find the ideal solution for your application-specific needs, contact a CAS DataLoggers Applications Specialist at (800) 956-4437 or visit our website at www.DataLoggerInc.com.