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FAQ & Overview of dataloggers

Why do I need a datalogger?
A datalogger is quite a sophisticated instrument which can be invaluable in gathering readings and interpreting experiments.A datalogger can be left unattended to record sensor readings of experiments which take a long time to accumulate (i.e.hours of sunshine over a week,month);taking a large number of readings in the field (assessing water quality out in the catchment areas);but perhaps where the datalogger really proves significant is in "fast"events. With high sampling speeds,experiments can be demonstrated "frame by frame" (like those TV police investigations where they go through the surveillance tape one frame at a time).By slowing down the time it takes for an experiment to elapse so much more information is forthcoming and changes are so much easier to see.For example,pH titration curves;simple harmonic motion;sound wave analysis;induction experiments,and so much more.

What is a datalogger? A datalogger is an instrument which can (remotely & independently) store data in memory which can later be downloaded to a computer for examination.Typically a datalogger consists of a.AD converter b.microprocessor c.memory d.I/O module.

What is an interface?
An interface is generally a peripheral which enables data to be sent to the computer.This facility is typically used to provide real-time data to the computer.

What features do dataloggers offer?
The DataVision/Voyager/DataMeter/Explorer dataloggers have Datalogger/Interface/Meter features.This means that they can act as a.Datalogger (remotely gather information) b.provide a realtime interface to a computer c.with their LCD displays,these instruments will also display the sensor reading values in real time (i.e.act as a: pH meter if the pH sensor is connected;thermometer if the temperature sensor is connected,etc)

How simple is a datalogger to setup?
Much research has been made to simplify the operation of these instruments so that they are intuitive and easy to use.With the DataMeter/Voyager/Explorer it does not get much simpler than a 3 button operation.The BlackBox converts your computer into a sophisticated datalogger and again,the associated software is intuitive and easy to use.The DataVision has a few more keys for it's operation,but being a high class,advanced system it is quite straightforward in it's operation.

Remember that the focus of dataloggers is not so much the instrumentation but the actual experiment! Consequently the engineers & researchers want you to spend as little time as possible learning about the equipment and spending more time being a scientist.

More questions & answers to follow.

Why do I need a datalogger?	A datalogger is quite a sophisticated instrument which can be invaluable in gathering readings and interpreting experiments.A datalogger can be left unattended to record sensor readings of experiments which take a long time to accumulate (i.e.hours of sunshine over a week,month);taking a large number of readings in the field (assessing water quality out in the catchment areas);but perhaps where the datalogger really proves significant is in "fast"events. With high sampling speeds,experiments can be demonstrated "frame by frame" (like those TV police investigations where they go through the surveillance tape one frame at a time).By slowing down the time it takes for an experiment to elapse so much more information is forthcoming and changes are so much easier to see.For example,pH titration curves;simple harmonic motion;sound wave analysis;induction experiments,and so much more.
What is a datalogger?	A datalogger is an instrument which can (remotely & independently) store data in memory which can later be downloaded to a computer for examination.Typically a datalogger consists of a.AD converter b.microprocessor c.memory d.I/O module.
What is an interface?	An interface is generally a peripheral which enables data to be sent to the computer.This facility is typically used to provide real-time data to the computer.
What features do dataloggers offer?	The DataVision/Voyager/DataMeter/Explorer dataloggers have Datalogger/Interface/Meter features.This means that they can act as a.Datalogger (remotely gather information) b.provide a realtime interface to a computer c.with their LCD displays,these instruments will also display the sensor reading values in real time (i.e.act as a: pH meter if the pH sensor is connected;thermometer if the temperature sensor is connected,etc)
How simple is a datalogger to setup?	Much research has been made to simplify the operation of these instruments so that they are intuitive and easy to use.With the DataMeter/Voyager/Explorer it does not get much simpler than a 3 button operation.The BlackBox converts your computer into a sophisticated datalogger and again,the associated software is intuitive and easy to use.The DataVision has a few more keys for it's operation,but being a high class,advanced system it is quite straightforward in it's operation. Remember that the focus of dataloggers is not so much the instrumentation but the actual experiment! Consequently the engineers & researchers want you to spend as little time as possible learning about the equipment and spending more time being a scientist.




More questions & answers to follow.