Data Logging
Data Logging
The sensors take measurements of the water An ADC converts the analogue signals into digital data The data is sent to the data logger where it is stored until called for by the Water Board's computer. On request, the digital data is transmitted to the Water Board's computer. Special software (data logging software) takes the data and analyses it The results of the analysis are presented as graphs and tables The results are printed out
Racing Cars Some companies invest millions into developing state-of-the-art racing cars. They want to know every aspect of how their car is performing so that they can ensure the engine is calibrated correctly, the right amount of fuel is being delivered, the best speeds are being achieved etc. Digital electronic dashboards are used inside the cars. They display data collected by the sensors. This data is logged and stored for later analysis by the engineers. Also, output alarms can be set to alert the driver when certain conditions have been met. Data can also be scrolled through by the driver pushing a button.
Data Logging can be used in remote or dangerous situations Data logging can be carried out 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year Time intervals for collecting data can be very frequent and regular, for example, hundreds of measurements per second can be set up to start at a time in the future No need to have a person present Data logging is often more accurate because there is no likelihood of human error
Disadvantages If the data logging equipment breaks down or malfunctions, some data could be lost or not recorded Equipment can be expensive for small tasks The equipment will only take readings at the logging interval which has been set up. If something unexpected happens between recordings, the data will not be collected.