What is a multichannel datalogger?

A datalogger is an electronic device for recording data over time. Dataloggers are used to observe waveforms that are digitally processed and recorded; they can be designed to monitor one physical quantity or several quantities at once on several channels - so-called multichannel dataloggers.

A multichannel datalogger is therefore a device designed to simultaneously measure and record data from several different sensors or measurement points. Each channel of the datalogger is connected to a separate sensor, which allows monitoring of different variables such as temperature, humidity, pressure, voltage or current at multiple points at the same time. This makes it possible to monitor complex processes and analyze the interdependencies of the measured parameters.

The functioning of the multi-channel datalogger is based on the fact that it periodically takes readings from each channel and stores these values in internal memory or transfers them to a computer or cloud storage for further analysis. Some models also offer wireless communication, making it easier to collect data from hard-to-reach locations.

On our website, we offer Hioki dataloggers that have a maximum sampling rate of up to 1000 samples per second (1000 Hz), making them suitable for observing signals associated with slower phenomena. For faster sampling speeds, Hioki offers so-called Memory HiCorders. The fastest sampling is achieved using oscilloscopes (e.g. Tektronix), but these do not allow such long data recording.

Data logger applications

The main applications of data loggers include monitoring temperature, humidity, electrical quantities or static stresses, and they are widely used in the industrial, energy, healthcare, agricultural, research and development sectors where long-term and accurate measurement of conditions that affect processes, quality and safety is required.

Dataloggers are characterized by their low cost compared to other recording devices and their ability to accept numerous signals, exceeding 100 channels, as input.

Datalogger

Appearance of dataloggers

Figures 2 and 3 show the Hioki LR8450 and LR8102 dataloggers which represent data loggers with display and data loggers without display, respectively. These instruments have one or more terminals for input signals, which they digitize and record either to internal memory or to an SD card or USB flash drive.
In addition to displaying real-time input data in graphical or numerical form for operator review, the data loggers allow past data to be viewed while continuing to record inputs.
A computer connected to a LAN or USB network can be used to control multiple loggers and to record or transfer data from the instruments.

Hioki portable models can simultaneously record a maximum of 330 channels (LR8450) and built-in models a maximum of 3000 channels (LR8102).
Datalogger s displejem LR8450

Datalogger bez displeje LR8102

Datalogger input specifications

Dataloggers can record the following types of signals (LR8450 series):

  • DC voltage (maximum 100 V)
  • AC/DC current
  • temperature (using thermocouples)
  • humidity
  • resistance
  • CAN/CAN FD
  • stress (direct strain gauge connection possible)