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        for: Data
      Loggers
          
 
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              | What
                is a data logger? |  
              | A
                data logger is an electronic instrument that records
                measurements (temperature, relative humidity, light intensity,
                on/off, open/closed, voltage and events) over time. Typically,
                data loggers are small, battery-powered devices that are
                equipped with a microprocessor, data storage and sensor. Most
                data loggers utilize turn-key software on a personal computer to
                initiate the logger and view the collected data. |  
              | How
                does a data logger work? |  
              | First,
                connect your data logger to a personal computer.  Then use
                the turn-key software to select logging parameters (sampling
                intervals, start time, etc.) and initiate the logger. 
                Disconnect the logger and deploy it in the desired location. 
                The logger records each measurement and stores it in memory
                along with the time and date.  Reconnect your logger to the
                personal computer and use the software to readout the data and
                see these measurements as a graph, showing the profile over
                time.  The tabular data can be viewed as well, or exported
                to a spreadsheet for further manipulation. |  
              | Why
                are data loggers replacing chart recorders? |  
              | That's
                like asking why CDs replaced albums!  Data loggers
                incorporate the latest in digital technology which makes them
                smaller, less expensive, more accurate and more reliable than
                chart recorders.  Plus, you get your data in digital format
                which makes your data analysis, storage, and presentation so
                much more convenient.  Data loggers don't require costly
                and inconvenient chart supplies because you view data right on
                your PC or laptop. |  
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              | Where
                are data loggers used? |  
              | Data loggers are
                used in remote areas or anywhere you want the convenience of
                battery power to record measurements. They are ideal for those
                involved with field studies, transportation monitoring, HVAC
                tests, quality studies, troubleshooting and general research.
                Data loggers can be used in a wide
                variety of applications. Their small size makes data
                loggers ideal for mounting in out-of-the-way locations. |  
              | What
                is a data shuttle? |  
              | A
                data shuttle is a pocket-sized device used to offload and
                restart multiple data loggers and transport the data back to
                your personal computer.  This allows you to keep your
                loggers in the field for continuous monitoring and recording.
                Connect the Shuttle to your PC and use the the special software
                to readout and view the data from the Shuttle. |  
              | Why
                choose data loggers over other data acquisition systems? |  
              | Some
                data acquisition systems require the installation of special
                hardware in your PC and special connection and wiring of
                sensors. These systems work well in permanently configured,
                on-line applications but can be costly and difficult to use. 
                Data loggers greatly reduce the price per channel for most
                logging applications and are so much easier to use.  They
                and can be placed in remote areas that permanent digital systems
                simply cannot go. |  
              | What
                to look for in a data logger? |  
              | What do you want to
                measure?  Loggers
                to measure temperature, humidity, light intensity, equipment
                on/off cycles, positional (eg., open/closed), rainfall, voltage,
                and more
                are available. Units
                of measure and measuring ranges. User-selectable
                sampling intervals. Data
                storage capacity. User-friendly
                software.  Watertight
                cases, if necessary. Small
                size, portable, self-contained, battery operated, low cost. |  |