How are Data Loggers Significant Tools in Continuous Monitoring?

There are different technologies that ensure smooth business processes. Innovation has paved the way for advanced industry-specific tools. These tools streamline work operations. Take the case of a data logger. It may be a small device but has a significant impact on business outcome. It has a wide range of use that is crucial, especially in monitoring applications. Continuous monitoring requires the integration of these data loggers. Specifically, in the logistics industry, the need for constant monitoring is a must.

What are Data Loggers?

Data loggers are an electronic device that serves as tools for monitoring and recording a specific data. They commonly come as sensors. Data loggers can be programmed and activated to record data in regular intervals. They can record data through continuous monitoring for long periods.

What Can They Monitor?

Data loggers can record data depending on what they are for. More often, these sensors are used for continuous monitoring of environmental conditions. The environment parameters that it monitors are:

• Temperature
• Humidity
• Pressure
• Security access
• Airflow and air quality
• Power

There is a big market for temperature data loggers. It is a staple tool to record the most common parameter. It is convenient in cold chain logistics. In 2020 alone, temperature sensors were worth more than a billion dollars. 

There are also different types of applications for data loggers. Because of its versatility and portability, it can be used for other continuous monitoring application such as:

• weather recording
• cold chain facility (warehouse and transport logistics)
• traffic management
• offshore port control
• biological researches
• water system monitoring
• data center monitoring
• HVAC system management
• preservation of old artifacts

What are the Different Types of Data Loggers?

Given a wide array of applications, there are different kinds of data loggers. Its power source can often distinguish them. Some can operate through electricity, while other data loggers are battery-powered. 

The different types of data loggers can be very well derived from their data access system. The types are directly relevant to how they record data and provide access to it. Input types can also distinguish them. Some stand-alone data loggers are programmed by attaching specific sensors for data monitoring. Others have fixed sensors in place.

1. USB-Type

True to its name, USB Type data loggers can offload data connected to a PC’s USB port. However, the mechanism of downloading data directly to a computer may be a limitation for USB-type data loggers. In a remote set-up, computers may not be present. Hence, USB data loggers depend on data shuttles. Data will initially be downloaded through the shuttle and ultimately be transferred to a computer.

2. Bluetooth

The wireless capacity advancement has made a significant mark in continuous monitoring as well. Data loggers with Bluetooth capacities enable the transfer of data to mobile devices within range. This type is especially advantageous in remote and transit operations.

3. Web-Based

Another data monitoring advancement is the Internet of Things (IoT). Because of IoT, real-time data access is now a staple in business operations. This allows for better data download. It also provides continuous monitoring visibility from a central access point.

Advantages of Data Logger Technology

1. Accurate monitoring

Accuracy and precision are a competitive edge in business. This is especially valuable in operations with parameter considerations. Technology improvements in sensors are now precise than before. This allows for better parameter management as well. A difference in data figures would be detrimental to the whole operation if not managed correctly. Data loggers can conveniently take away this risk. Ultimately, the accurate data gathered will yield quality results.

2. Adaptability 

Often, environmental monitoring needs a holistic tracking of several parameters simultaneously. Data logger technology has acknowledged account of this opportunity. Technological improvements create interchangeable data loggers. Depending on its intended use, this allows changing of sensors. 

One will need to invest in specifically programmed data loggers. Changing the sensors alone can monitor a different parameter after that. Such innovations encourage adaptability that is a significant edge in continuous monitoring.

3. Flexibility

The evolution of data loggers also made changes in their power sources. While it may not be a significant advancement at face value, data loggers that are battery-powered have made monitoring flexible in effect. Battery-powered data loggers can be reliable in continuous monitoring. It also doesn’t break the bank as compared to the maintenance investments for electric data loggers.

Modular sensors are also a handy monitoring solution. It eliminates the hassle of installation when one needs to change some parts for data loggers to function differently. Such convenience takes away the arduous task of recalibrating data loggers. 

4. Real-Time Notification

Part and parcel of monitoring is the detection of parameter fluctuations constantly. New data loggers have alert features that can notify users. It may be in the form of alarms or digital notifications via SMS or emails. 

Real-time alerts benefit businesses in achieving proper conditions and not compromising product commodities. This is especially helpful in transit situations. Immediate action steps can ensue to stabilize environmental conditions.

Alarms are also very vital in security monitoring. Unauthorized access is negated when there is appropriate visual and audible notification to signal a security breach. 

5. Data Storage

Modern data loggers have storage capacities that are large enough to accommodate long periods of monitoring. The use of USB drives and SD cards improves the storage, relay, and access of data.

Data storage solutions facilitate better documentation and reporting. It prevents any data oversight as the data feed is continuous and in real-time. This also provides comprehensive visibility from users that are needed during checkpoints.

Data Loggers Most Common Applications 

1. Cold Chain Environmental Condition Monitor

Data loggers are a staple in cold chain facilities. This is because the industry follows strict environmental parameters to preserve product quality. Data loggers that can monitor temperature, humidity, or air pressure are examples of running a cold chain.

AKCP’s wireless sensors are easy to install monitoring techs that are capable of data logging during transport. There two types of environmental monitoring that can are addressed by AKCP sensors.

• monitoring cold chain distribution
• monitoring cold chain storage warehouse

Checking the cold chain environment follows the required parameters. Users can also receive alerts in advance for any potential problems and ultimately log data in a remote monitoring set-up.

2. Pharmaceutical and Laboratory

A drug storage environment is critical. Manufacturers alike abide by rigid regulatory requirements. To uphold a proper storage environment, it is good to monitor pharma and laboratory facilities regularly.

AKCP provides a solution for monitoring temperature-sensitive drugs. It combines NIST4 wireless sensors which are capable of monitoring the following:

• secure laboratory door or medical refrigerators
• monitor temperature of medical-grade refrigerators
• differential pressure and air quality checks for cleanrooms and sterile environments

3. Data Centers

An IT cabinet is formed with complex cords, switches, and routers intertwining. Running in full steam, IT equipment generates heat in the data center facility. Reducing the operating temperature is necessary for this kind of setting. This is why server room temperature monitoring is essential.

AKCP has an end-to-end data center monitoring solution, including sensors and AKCPro Server DCIM software. AKCP also provides both traditional wired and wireless data center monitoring solutions.

4. Art Galleries and Museums

It is vital to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels in museums and art galleries. It is especially essential for individual artifacts. Ancient objects and paintings degrade when exposed to high levels of humidity and light.

AKCP’s temperature and humidity sensors come in a wireless, battery-powered capacity that is easy to install. These sensors are calibrated for integrity checks. With the sensors, real-time alerts, moisture absorption, and temperature fluctuations are negated. 

The Advantage of Continuous Monitoring

As they say in health, “prevention is better than cure.” That is the value of continuous monitoring. It helps users prepare and respond accordingly to undesirable environmental conditions in the business. 

Continuous monitoring is universal. It has a lot of applications in the business world. Continuous monitoring is very present in IT infrastructure maintenance. The same monitoring is relevant in program development and social work. But more than that, continuous monitoring is essential in a business operation. This is a good practice for industries dealing with environmental and regulatory conditions. 

With such significance, continuous monitoring aims to integrate solutions for convenience without compromising precision and accuracy. This is why a data logger, as minute as it may seem, is an integral element to monitoring activity. Data loggers with advanced capacities can take continuous monitoring to a whole different level. It helps yield good results, attain quality and provide a competitive advantage. 

Reference Links:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_logger

https://sensoscientific.com/evolution-of-data-loggers-to-continuous-monitoring/

https://www.businessblogshub.com/2018/08/what-are-data-loggers-and-how-are-they-useful/