Data Logging for Cryo Applications Temperature data loggers are indispensable when a product needs to be maintained within a specific temperature range. Some products call for very low temperatures to avoid spoilage; tissue samples and frozen foods are just a couple of examples of such products. In these cases, data loggers serve a dual function. First, they warn technicians when temperatures rise above specified limits. Second, they provide a mechanism for reporting and compiling data over a long time frame. Data loggers that operate in extremely low temperatures (-120 degrees F or lower) must of course be well designed and maintained. Generally, temperature data loggers for cryogenic environments are small and self-contained units. If the data loggers are battery operated, once calibrated, they can operate for extended periods without any extra attention. The potential applications for temperature data loggers are numerous, and include many applications within the pharmaceutical, food and shipping industries. Government agencies publish regulations defining the allowable temperature ranges for a host of consumer products. These regulations are important to adhere to for public safety reasons, for instance, frozen meat that is allowed to partially thaw, is a true public health hazard. Likewise, blood or tissue samples become useless when they exceed a certain temperature. The alarm on a low-temperature data logger notifies the user when the ambient temperature nears a certain level. Naturally, it’s important that the initial calibration conform to the allowable temperatures of whatever product is being monitored. If needed, the device can be recalibrated later for a different application. Calibration points and range capabilities vary from device to device. LEDs on a data logging device also function as a notification system. Depending upon the device, LEDs indicate a variety of warnings or statuses by blinking, steady on, steady off, or different colored lights. In addition to programmable alarms and LEDs, temperature data loggers can interface with a computer via USB connection or wireless networks, providing constant feedback to a central
workstation. This can help eliminate the need of having workers remain in the vicinity of the data logger. Integrated, proprietary software makes reporting the results from a temperature data logger very simple. Good data logging software features numerous options for data compilation and display. In the industries that require low temperatures, such as pharmaceuticals, the ability to quickly provide custom reports is a regulatory requirement. Most data loggers also add a time stamp to their readings, making for simple and accurate reporting of data trends over a specified time interval. Many manufacturers offer extended warranties for their data loggers, testifying to the faith they put into their products. On the user end, adequate training is necessary to ensure that essential workers understand how to maintain the data recording devices in their area, as well as interpret the data being produced. Temperature data loggers are an integral part of many current industries. They help to ensure the safety and reliability of a host of consumer goods. Before the age of such accurate measuring and recording devices, many products, from frozen meat to medical supplies, were either unavailable or very risky. For more information visit us at http://www.madgetech.com