What is a data logger and how does it work?

Data loggers from Delphin Technology are versatile devices for recording and monitoring measurement data in industrial and technical applications. On this page we answer the basic questions about data loggers and explain their possible applications and advantages in industry.

1. What is a data logger?
   
   A data logger is a device for automatically recording, storing and analyzing measured values. Delphin data loggers measure parameters such as temperature, humidity, pressure, voltage and current. They are compatible with various sensor types and are therefore suitable for a wide range of environments and applications. The stored data is used for process optimization, quality assurance or long-term analysis.
   
   
2. What is a data logger used for?
   
   Data loggers are used in industry for quality monitoring, process optimization and data documentation. Common applications include:
   
   Temperature monitoring in production and storage to ensure ideal conditions.
   Process monitoring in machines and systems to monitor important production parameters such as current, voltage and power.
   Environmental monitoring in critical areas such as laboratories and production facilities.
   Long-term and error analysis through continuous data acquisition and storage.
   
   
3. What are the advantages of data loggers in industry?
   
   Data loggers are indispensable tools in industry and offer numerous advantages:
   • Long-term monitoring:Continuous monitoring of processes over long periods of time is crucial for quality assurance and troubleshooting.
   • Energy efficiency:With their low energy consumption, data loggers are also suitable for remote or difficult to access areas.
   • Accuracy and reliability:Modern data loggers provide precise and reliable data that helps to improve production processes.
   • Versatility:Data loggers can record a variety of parameters simultaneously and are therefore suitable for different applications.
     
4. What are the practical applications of data loggers in industry?
   
   Monitoring the environmental conditions
   In the food and pharmaceutical industries, monitoring temperature and humidity is crucial. Data loggers ensure that products are produced, stored and transported under optimum conditions.
   Monitoring of machines and systems
   Data loggers record parameters such as vibrations and power consumption in order to detect signs of wear or malfunctions at an early stage. This enables predictive maintenance and helps to avoid expensive downtime.
   Energy monitoring and management
   In the energy industry, data loggers help to monitor energy consumption. This allows inefficient processes to be identified and energy consumption to be optimized, which saves costs and reduces the environmental impact.
   
   
5. What are standard signals?
   
   Standard signals are standardized electrical signals that convert physical process variables (such as temperature, humidity or pressure) into a standardized format. They are either transmitted as Current signal (4-20 mA) or Voltage signal (0-10 V) and enable the standardized processing of data.
   
   • Resistance to electromagnetic interference:Current signals are particularly reliable in busy industrial environments.
   • Lossless signal transmission: Current signals remain precise and unaltered over long cable runs.
   • Error detection:The 4-20 mA signal makes it easy to check for line breaks.
     
6. What types of data logger are there?
   
   Delphin Technology offers a variety of data loggers for different measurement requirements:
   
   • CAN bus data logger
     CAN bus data loggers are characterized by a simple setup, extensive configuration options and self-sufficient operation. Find out what CAN bus data loggers can do and the advantages of using CAN bus data loggers.
   • 4-20 mA data logger
     The term 4-20 mA data logger refers to data loggers that are equipped with a standardized current interface (inputs and outputs). Advantages of 4-20 mA data loggers, their areas of application and much more detailed information
   • Temperature data logger
     Temperature data loggers monitor and document temperature curves in laboratories, production facilities and logistics and are therefore ideal for areas where precise temperature control is crucial.
     
7. Examples for the use of Delphin data loggers
   
   Delphin Technology offers special data logger models for different applications:
   
   Expert Logger -Ideal for continuous real-time monitoring and analysis in the process and energy industries.
   ProfiMessage D -A flexible solution for capturing large amounts of data with many input channels.
   Loggito series -Compact and perfect for decentralized measurements, suitable for small and distributed measuring systems.
   
   Delphin Technology also offers customized solutions tailored to the requirements of specific applications to increase efficiency and quality in various industrial sectors.
   
   
8. Which sensors are available for data loggers?
   
   Sensors detect physical or chemical properties and convert them into electrical signals. These sensors enable a wide range of applications and precise data acquisition in a wide variety of environments. The following sensors are widely used for data loggers:
   
   - Temperature sensors
   - Material moisture electrodes
   - Climate sensors for temperature and humidity
   - CO₂ sensors
   - Puncture sensors
   - Shock and vibration sensors
   - Air pressure sensors
   - Acceleration sensors
   
   
9. How do you install a data logger?
   Installing a Delphin data logger is straightforward. The devices are installed at the measuring points, connected to sensors and power sources and configured using the Delphin software. Depending on the model, they can be connected via USB, Ethernet or wirelessly and integrated into existing networks to enable centralized data storage and monitoring.
   
   
10. What should be considered when selecting a data logger?
    The choice of the right data logger depends on the application:
    Sensor compatibility -Which physical parameters are required?
    Storage and transfer options -Is a wired or wireless solution more suitable?
    Sampling rates -High sampling rates are important for rapidly changing processes.
    Galvanic isolation -Protects against interference from external voltages.
    Software integration -Delphin data loggers offer user-friendly software for data analysis and integration into higher-level systems.
    
    Further information
    Are you interested in more details about the history, specific applications in Industry 4.0 and the benefits of data loggers in the context of IIoT? In our blog you will find in-depth information on this topic. Find out more about the development of data loggers, predictive maintenance and data integration!