Data loggers and Chart Recorders are two different types of
temperature monitors.
Data loggers are modern digital devices that monitor temperature
electronically. They are stand-alone devices that are programmed
with a computer to collect temperature data over a period of
time. They are often used to gather temperature data in harsh
environments such as on a mountain-top, under the ocean or in
isolated dessert areas.
They can also be used to monitor the temperature of a freezer or
of a pharmaceutical storage facility to comply with government
regulations or professional association standards.
Data loggers have replaced older mechanical chart recorders as
temperature monitors because they don't require paper chart, or
pen replacement. Their big disadvantage is that the user can't
access the collected temperature data until it is downloaded
into a computer. Where the data logger is programmed and then
left unattended for several months to gather the temperature
this isn't a problem, however there are situations where the
user wants to be able to see what the temperature is or what the
trend has been over the last week or month.
For example, if the indoor environment of a museum or art
gallery is monitored it is very important that someone view the
temperature data periodically to insure that the HVAC systems
are operating properly. Month old data doesn't help in this
situation. It must be accessed immediately if damage to art
works or priceless antiques is to be prevented. Traditionally,
chart recorders have been used to monitor temperature where
immediate access to the data is required.
There is a newer alternative that combines the best features of
data loggers and chart recorders to not only monitor temperature
but to display a historical record or chart without the need for
periodic maintenance. The ThermaViewer collects data like a data
logger and displays a chart electronically on an LCD like a
chart recorder. It doesn't require a computer to program or see
the data and it doesn't need periodic maintenance or paper
charts and pens. It also comes with two sensors and an alert
function so the user knows immediately if the temperature moves
outside user-set parameters.