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Data Logger Advantages and Disadvantages

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This page explores the advantages and disadvantages of data loggers used for data logging.

What are Data Loggers?

As the name suggests, data loggers are instruments used for data logging. Depending on the requirements, there are various types of data loggers, such as:

  • PC-based or standalone data loggers.
  • Single-channel or multi-channel data loggers.

As shown in Figure 1, there are three main modules in a data logging system:

  • Sensors or transducers: These devices sense the data to be analyzed or stored. Often, data is acquired using other devices and provided as a software file to data loggers for further analysis.
  • Data acquisition hardware: This component acquires and stores data, converting it into a format that can be interpreted by applications or data logging software.
  • Data logging software or application: This software analyzes the data and provides results in a desired format, such as graphs or plots.

Data Loggers for data logging

Advantages (Benefits) of Data Loggers

Here are the benefits of using data loggers:

  • Remote or Dangerous Situations: They can be used in remote or dangerous environments.
  • Continuous Operation: Data logging can work according to its design. Some equipment logs data 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, while some logs data only during a predefined period.
  • Automation: Once set up, data logging performs automatically and doesn’t require human presence.
  • Accuracy: Data loggers are very accurate as the likelihood of human error is eliminated.
  • Improved Understanding: They make it easier to understand scientific experiments and scientific concepts with the help of better graphs/plots.

Disadvantages (Drawbacks) of Data Loggers

Here are the disadvantages of using data loggers:

  • Initial Investment: It requires an initial investment cost to start using the data logging service. The equipment can be expensive for small tasks.
  • Limited Features: Often, not all features are available in the data logger equipment, requiring modification in the software or application.
  • Potential Data Loss: If the data logging equipment malfunctions, some data could be lost or not recorded.
  • Interval Restrictions: Certain data logging equipment can only take readings during an interval configured at the start.
  • Training Required: Basic training is needed to use the equipment effectively.