Dataloggers for Environmental Variables

Dataloggers for Environmental Variables

Environmental Datalogger (or Data Logger, Data Recorder, Data Acquisition) refers to electronics designed to capture environmental variables such as temperature and humidity over time for study and review later.

Benefits of Dataloggers/Data Recorders

• Quiet, unattended 24/7 operation
• Simple to setup and operate. Many portable models available
• Wide variety of measurement types and measurement speeds possible
• Help troubleshoot and identify problems in many fields
• Steady declining cost

Parts of a Datalogger/Data Recorder

• Built in sensor, such as temperature, or electrical terminals to connect an external one
• A/D or analog to digital converter and signal conditioning electronics
• Non-volatile storage memory for the collected data and a method to specify the storage rate and on some models the scan interval
• PC Communications or other method to move the data to a computer and to configure the unit
• Optionally a local display and keypad. Not always needed, so “blind” units are a cost saving

My handheld Digital Thermometer logs so is it considered a Datalogger?

For our website purposes, no. We further classify data logging instruments as dedicated to data logging. Typically they will be “blind”, i.e. no display or buttons, and intended for long term unattended operation. A handheld digital thermometer will have a host of other features, one of which may optionally be to record data. We have categorized these measuring instruments here Products > Thermometers.