Temperature Data Logger 101: Essentials to Get Started

What is a temperature data logger?

A temperature data logger is a form of data logger optimized or configured for temperature probes or sensors. A temperature logger is an electronic device capable of storing some measurements. Often battery powered, it accepts one or more sensor inputs, sampling and saving the data at a predetermined frequency. At the end of the acquisition period, the logger is recovered and the data is downloaded into a PC for analysis. Some data loggers even transmit the measurement results to a PC or other device.

What types of data loggers do companies use?

Uses of data loggers fall into one of two categories:

• Stationary: Monitoring static areas is the goal of these data loggers. From labs and storage areas to installations and equipment, stationary data loggers keep you informed on essential assets.
• Mobile: Keeping aware of on-the-move products is the priority of these data logs. Whether you’re transporting products by air, land or sea, this data logger moves with your goods and updates you on their condition.

Based on whether a company requires a mobile or stationary data logger, they’ll choose one of the following:

• Wired data loggers: Before wireless technology, companies had to use wired data loggers. The drawback of these data loggers links back to their older technology, as well as complex, time-consuming installations.
• USB data loggers: While more convenient than wired data loggers, USB data loggers still involve some physical labor and time.
• Wireless data loggers: Those data loggers avoid the hassle and inconvenience of wired and USB data loggers. Many use the Internet of Things (IoT) protocols, which streamline condition updates. Others use a radiofrequency signal or communicate via Bluetooth.

How does a temperature data logger work?

A temperature data logger accepts one or more sensor inputs, sampling and saving data at a predetermined frequency. At the end of the acquisition period, the logger is recovered, and the data is downloaded onto a PC for analysis. Some data loggers even transmit the measurement results to a PC or other device, eliminating the need for field visits.

For logging ambient environments, data loggers with integrated precision sensors create a compact, lightweight recording device. Its weakness is that it must be placed at a point where the temperature is to be measured. This prevents temperature data loggers with internal sensors from being used in high-temperature environments, as the electronic elements in the device need to operate within a working temperature range. However, it makes them useful for logging temperatures experienced in transit, as might be required when shipping artwork or perishable produce, such as eggs.

The issue of measuring and recording temperature in environments that are either too hot or too cold for temperature data loggers with internal sensors is addressed by temperature data loggers that have probes attached or special housing with integrated sensors designed to monitor extremely hot or extremely cold environments. The sensor probe can be placed within the harsh environment, measuring temperature, with the recorder remaining safely outside in an appropriate location. For example, while the internal temperature of an industrial oven may be too hot for a single packaged temperature data logger, a sensor probe can be placed within the oven and the recorder can record the data from outside of the oven.

Want to know more about temperature data loggers?

Shenzhen AKS Technology Co., Ltd is a National High-tech Enterprise in China, committed to 3rd-party transport status monitoring products. Since 2010, AKS has continuously expanded its R&D team, researched and innovated, and provided the market with simple and efficient solutions from impact, tilt, temperature, vibration, humidity, pressure, etc. For any more information about temperature data loggers, please do not hesitate to contact us.