Data Logger

 

One of the task that the lecturer ask us to do is to design an experiment using data logger. A data logger or data recorder is an electronic device that records data over time or in relation to location either with a built in instrument or sensor or via external instruments and sensors. Increasingly, but not entirely, they are based on a digital processor (or computer). They generally are small, battery powered, portable, and equipped with a microprocessor, internal memory for data storage, and sensors. Some data loggers interface with a personal computer and utilize software to activate the data logger and view and analyze the collected data, while others have a local interface device (keypad, LCD) and can be used as a stand-alone device. Data loggers vary between general purpose types for a range of measurement applications to very specific devices for measuring in one environment or application type only. It is common for general purpose types to be programmable; however, many remain as static machines with only a limited number or no changeable parameters. Electronic data loggers have replaced chart recorder in many applications. One of the primary benefits of using data loggers is the ability to automatically collect data on a 24-hour basis. Upon activation, data loggers are typically deployed and left unattended to measure and record information for the duration of the monitoring period. This allows for a comprehensive, accurate picture of the environmental conditions being monitored, such as air temperature and relative humidity. The cost of data loggers has been declining over the years as technology improves and costs are reduced.

The data logger we use in the task is brand Paesco and the type of sensor that my group use is motion sensor:

 

With using the data logger, we able to determine a few advantages that  they possess compare to traditional experiment method is they can operate independently of a computer. With data logger, student will be able to repeat the experiment as many times as need easily with just click the reset button on the data logger software. Data logger also help student not only to record and tabulate data but also able to plot multiple graph at the same time. Besides that, data logger is a device can store data (up to ten years) and manually transfer to a computer to view that data. Data loggers have the ability to accept a greater number of input channels with better resolution and accuracy. Besides that, data logger has some form on-board intelligence, which provides the user with diverse capabilities. A data logger is a self-contained unit that does not have a host to operate. It can be installed in any location, and left to operate unattended. Moreover, data logger has the ability to work similarly to standard recorders, in order that they provide the user with a hard copy printout of the data recorded. Another interesting advantage of data loggers is that they can acts as alarm, while recording a minimum number of samples. A data logger can record at very long intervals, saving paper, and can note when alarm condition is occurring. That is the advantages of data loggers.