Data Logger : What is a Data Logger and How Data Logger Works

Data logger is a microprocessor controlled storage unit, which receives data in a certain rhythm of an interface and records it on a storage medium. If the information is however only available in non-electrical form, then the data logger from a special sensor combined with hardware to capture the physical measurement of data over a certain period of time, examples of such form of data logger can be the data loggers used for temperatures, voltages and accelerations.

Basic Details of Data Logger

A data logger consists of a programmable microprocessor and a storage medium, at least has one interface and one or more channels for connecting the data source such as sensors. The data acquisition is performed externally or internally via vendor specific interfaces. An internal interface is also present, if the data logger is provided with a sensor such as a temperature sensor on an unit. The data is passed directly from the sensor via the internal interface to the data logger and stored. Each data logger has at least one external interface for receiving and delivering data from or to the environment. In the industrial and mechanical environment, RS232, CAN and USB interfaces are the most commonly used.

USB, D-Sub , Bluetooth , WLAN or industrial terminals , any external devices, sensors and machines can be connected as a data supplier. In any case, the storage process is always carried out fully automatically.

Types of Data Logger

Sensor Logger : Targeted applications in sensors and sensor data logger are installed in a device.

PDF Logger : A special variant of the autonomous data logger, it automatically saves data as PDF file with text and graphical part of the actual measured data.

Mini Logger :  Mini Logger is miniature version of Data Logger, instead of normal USB port, usually micro USB port is used.

Underwater Data Logger : Under Data Logger has waterproof housing has a larger memory for measured values and are designed for low energy use.

Other Special Data Logger : Data Logger usually has wider and specific usages, like on vehicles, medical devices etc.