dataTaker

www.dataTaker.com ...keeping an eye on reality

User’s Manual
DT50, DT500, DT600 Series dataTakers Series 3

A concise reference to:

• data acquisition
• data logging
• programming
• sensor wiring
• communications
 data†aker Pty Ltd Contents
Page 1 Getting Started
Warranty 2 More Getting Started
dataTaker Pty Ltd warrants the instruments it manufactures against defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 3 years from the date
of delivery to the original customer. This warranty is limited to the replacement or repair of such defects, without charge, when the instrument
is returned to dataTaker Pty Ltd or to one of its authorized dealers. This warranty excludes all other warranties, express or implied, and is
3 Schedules
limited to a value not exceeding the purchase price of the instrument. Where dataTaker Pty Ltd supplies equipment or items manufactured by
a third party, then the warranty provided by the third party manufacturer remains.
4 Channel Types

dataTaker Pty Ltd shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential loss or damages resulting from the use of the instrument, or for 5 Channel Options
damage to the instrument resulting from accident, abuse, improper implementation, lack of reasonable care, or loss of parts.
6 Time and Other Channels, Statistical Operations
Warning 7 Scaling Data and Calculations
dataTaker Pty Ltd products are not authorized for use as critical components in any life support system where failure of the product is likely to
effect its safety or effectiveness.
8 Data Logging and Retrieval, Memory Cards and Programs
Trademarks 9 Alarms
data†aker is a trademark of dataTaker Pty Ltd.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corp.
PC Card and PCMCIA are trademarks of the Personal Computer Memory Card Industry Association.
10 Output Format, More Commands

Firmware Versions 11 Parameters, Switches

This manual is applicable to the Series 3 data†aker 50 , 500 and 600 series data loggers that have firmware version 7.xx installed.
The firmware version number is returned in the first line of the TEST command (see the section “More Commands”).
12 Display Panel Operation
13 COMMS Port
EUROPE
This product complies with the requirements of European Directives
14 Networking
89/336/EEC and 73/23/EEC, and conforms with EN55022 Class A
(emissions) and EN50082-1 (susceptibility). 15 Power and Battery Connection
Mains adaptors used to power this product must comply with
Related Documents EN60950, EN60742 or EN61010.
16 Sensors 1 — Thermocouples, Thermistors, RTDs
Getting Started with DT50 , DT500
and DT600 series data†akers AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND 17 Sensors 2 — Hints, IC Temperature Sensors, Bridges
Advanced Communications Manual This product complies with the requirements of Australian and
New Zealand standard for EMC emissions AS/NZS 3548:1992 18 Sensors 3, Other Subjects
ACN Class A.
006 134 863 19 Analog Input Configurations 1
USA 20 Analog Input Configurations 2, Digital Configurations
EMC Notices to be
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not 21 Error Messages
cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
Related Products
❖ DeLogger 4
placed into
interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
22 Simplified Circuit
❖ DeLogger Pro 4 23 Glossary
❖ DeTransfer and DePlot
CANADA here in final Quark
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for 24 Appendix — dataTaker DT 50
❖ PMD-01 Panel Mount Display radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the
❖ SS-500 Sensor Simulation Panel Docof the Canadian Department of
Radio Interference Regulations 25 Appendix — dataTaker DT 500 and DT 600
Communications.
❖ MC-1024, MC-2048 and MC-4096
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits 26 Appendix — dataTaker DT 505 and DT 605
SRAM Memory Cards radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appreils
❖ MCI-04 Memory Card Interface numériques de la Classe A prescrites dans les règlements sur le 27 Appendix — dataTaker Geologger DT 515 and DT 615
❖ PE-500 Portable Enclosure brouillage radioélectrique édictés par le Ministère des
Communications du Canada. 28 Appendix — Channel Expansion Module
❖ SIE-500 Small Industrial Enclosure
❖ LIE-500 Large Industrial Enclosure 29 Appendix — Memory Card Processing (Flow Chart)
CAUTION — USE APPROVED ANTI-STATIC PROCEDURES
The input circuitry of this device is extremely sensitive and therefore 30 Appendix — dataTaker Specifications
susceptible to damage by static electricity. Always follow approved anti-
static procedures when working with this device. 34 Appendix — Accuracy of the dataTaker Data Loggers
35 Appendix — Firmware Notes
www.datataker.com
36 Index
dataTaker DT50, DT500 and DT600 Manual — A Concise Reference UM-0076-A0 © dataTaker Pty Ltd 1991–2002
DT50 DT500 DT600 DT505 DT605 DT515 DT615
 Page 1
Getting Started ... also see Getting Started with DT50, DT500 and DT600 Series dataTakers
The data†aker ... Read the data†aker time by the command Analog Input Channels Channel Type .. see page 4
The data†aker data logger is a tool to measure and Time Each analog input channel on a data†aker is a four The input channels are very versatile, however the
record a wide variety of parameters in the real world. or T wire connection that allows voltage, current, resistance and data†aker is not smart enough to know what type of
The data†aker can be programmed and data can be frequency to be measured. These are the fundamental sensor is connected. It must be told. A channel is defined by
Note that lower case characters can be used to document
plotted, tabulated, archived and exported using DeLogger 4 signals output by most sensors. It is not necessary to use all a Channel Type that determines how the multiplexer is
and clarify commands. For example Time is the same as T.
software (included) or DeLogger Pro 4 software (purchased four connections - two are often adequate. patched and how the readings are to be processed. There
With data†aker , data acquisition/data logging is made
separately). This only requires a brief knowledge of the As can be seen in the simplified drawing of a are more than thirty different Channel Types.
easy. For example entering the command from DeTransfer
data†aker commands described in this manual. data†aker channel below, there is a multiplexer and a The same channel may be read using different channel
Alternatively, the data†aker can be programmed and RA5S 1..5TK LOGON programmable instrumentation amplifier between the screw types. For example a thermocouple may be read as a
data can be plotted, archived and exported to spreadsheets sets up a reporting schedule (RA5S) which is to report terminals and the analog to digital converter. thermocouple or as a voltage. The command
and graphing tools using DeTransfer and DePlot software every five seconds ( RA5S) the temperatures on five Type K The multiplexer is essentially a patch board that directs
1TK 1V
(included). This requires a good working knowledge of the thermocouples ( 1..5TK), and to log or store the readings signals from the channel screw terminals to the amplifier
data†aker commands described in this manual. inputs. Many different connections are possible. will return both a temperature and a voltage based on two
in memory ( LOGON).
You'll require at least a 200MHz (for DeTransfer) or readings of the same sensor.
Recovering logged data is even simpler. The command
500MHz (for DeLogger 4) computer running Windows 98
Second Edition, Windows NT4 with SP5 or later, Windows U
2000 or Windows XP to supervise the data†aker .
data†aker Channel
returns the data in the default format
1TJ 384.7 Deg C
Getting Started - 1, 2, 3 ... 2TJ 335.2 Deg C Sensor excitation:
250µA, 2.50mA or 4V
The Getting Started with DT50, DT500 and DT600 Series 3TJ 367.1 Deg C excite ✶
dataTaker manual is recommended for new users, and will The data†aker has the flexibility to handle complex
teach you to supervise data†aker with DeLogger. tasks, and so if you want to perform more complex tasks + input +
If you intend to supervise data†aker with DeTransfer, you'll need to learn about the data†aker command set. +
then read on! Set up your logger and computer as follows – input – To 15 bit analog to
The more familiar you are with the data†aker , the better
1. Connect the communications cable between the return R digital converter
you'll be able to use it. Explore in detail the features that are
RS232 Comms of your data†aker , and COM1 or COM2 of most interest. –
Four input screw Instrumentation amplifier
of your computer. 100.0Ω (gain x1, x10 or x100)
terminals for one of
2. Install the DeTransfer software from the Software CD Successful Data Logging many analog input 0.1%
Analog multiplexer and signal router
DeTransfer is a terminal style interface to program and Data logging is an orderly process and should be channels
supervise data†aker, and to receive data. undertaken in a systematic way. Clearly define the purpose Ground showing connection for a differential
for data logging so that the data you collect maximises the (shared) input with sensor excitation (solid lines),
3. Connect the 12Vdc output from the 240Vac or 110Vac and a single ended input (broken lines)
power adaptor, to the screw terminals marked ~ and ~ knowledge gained. Consider the following
(DT50) or AC/DC (DT500/600). Polarity is not important. • identify the parameters to be measured
Caution – do not connect power to the terminals labelled • select sensors and number of channels A Standard data†aker Analog Input Channel
Battery (DT50) or Bat (DT500/600). These are reserved for • determine sensor output scaling
an external battery, and are limited to 9Vdc - see the section • determine how data is to be processed and reported
"Power and Battery Connection" for further information. • decide on sample frequency - minimise redundancy Differential Input Sensor Excitation
When power is turned on, the Converting LED will flash • calculate volume of data to be collected A differential input is one in which the signal is the Many sensors require power (or excitation) to enable
every second as the logger runs internal checks. • decide method of data recovery and archiving voltage between two wires, and neither wire is necessarily at them to output a signal. For example to read the
4. Launch DeTransfer. Click on Active Connection to drop • consider power consumption ground potential. On the data†aker the + and – terminals temperature of a thermistor (a temperature dependent
down the connections list, and select 'DT500 Auto'. Click on When you have defined the task, you can connect sensors provide for differential input. The multiplexer patches the resistor), excitation current is passed through the thermistor
Connections, and select 'Connect' from the list. DeTransfer and program the data†aker . channel's + terminal to the amplifier's + input, and the to generate a voltage drop that is then measured.
will configure your computer's COM port to match the channel's – terminal to the amplifier's – input. This patching The data†aker has three excitation sources – 250µA,
is achieved by defining the Channel Number and Channel 2.50mA and 4V. These are output from the excite ( ✶)
communications settings of the logger, and establish a
software connection with the logger. You may see the
Sensor Connection ... pages 4, 19, 20
Type (see page 4). For example a differential voltage on terminal of each channel, when the channel is read. This
You must know the output signal for each sensor. Make
message /E/M/R in the Receive (upper) window. channel one is patched by the channel definition 1V. action is automatic for most sensor types, but may also be
sure that the input to the data†aker does not exceed
If DeTransfer does not connect to the logger, then check evoked as a Channel Option.
ratings. As a general rule, the voltage on any analog input
the communications cable and COM port settings. Ensure
that data†aker RS232 Comms settings (see Appendix
terminal should be within –3.5 to +3.5 Vdc relative to Single Ended Input Analog to Digital Conversion
data†aker ground. data†aker models with a relay A single ended input also provides a signal voltage
for your model) and DeTransfer's settings are the same. between two wires, except that one of the wires must be at The data†aker converts input signals to a frequency,
multiplexer and attenuator can accept higher input levels.
ground potential. On the data†aker this "grounded" wire and then measures the frequency over one line cycle period
5. Click in the Send (lower) window to establish a cursor Select the most appropriate Channel Type for each
is connected to the channel's R terminal (R for return). The (20.00mS or 16.67mS). This method provides high noise
and type the command sensor from the table on page 4. The second last column
other signal wire is connected to any one of the other three rejection and good signal averaging over the sample period.
shows wiring configurations from pages 19 and 20. Connect
RESET (All uppercase)
terminals. Many sampling parameters can be adjusted by means of
the sensors accordingly.
then hit the Enter or Return key to send the command to the To patch a single ended channel the channel number is Channel Options (page 5), Switches and Parameters (page
Use Channel Options to modify the channel function.
logger to execute. The logger will reset and respond with given a suffix indicating the terminal to which the second 11). These include calibration, settling time, sampling time
Channel Options are listed in brackets immediately after the
wire is connected. For example a single ended voltage input and extended or multiple sampling. The default values of
Datataker 0 Version 7.xx Channel Type. The table on page 5 details channel options.
applied to channel one between the R and + terminals would these parameters are suited to the majority of sensors. See
Initializing...Done Test each sensor with a simple schedule. For example
be patched by the channel definition 1+V. the section "ADC Details" page on 18.
Set the data†aker realtime clock by the command RA1S 2PT385(4W) You can apply three single ended inputs to each
Time=15:30:00 (Logger has 24 hour clock) will return every 1 second (RA1S – see page 3) the data†aker channel. These use the suffix's +, – and ✶ For the Technically Minded
or T=15:30:00 temperature of a platinum resistance temperature sensor (asterisk). Thus the three single ended voltage inputs on To gain an understanding of how your data†aker
or T=\T (Sets logger to computer time) (PT385 – see page 4) connected as a four wire resistance channel one would be 1+V, 1–V and 1✶V. Note that the works, study the "Simplified Circuit" on page 22. This will
(4W channel option – see page 5) on channel 2. ✶ single ended input in not supported on the DT50. help you to exploit many of data†aker'' s features.
 Page 2
More Getting Started ... more compulsory reading !
Channel Setup - first check the sensors
Schedules .. page 3 Managing Power ... page 15 2TT a channel (in this case channel 2 as a thermocouple) can be 2TT 449.3 DegC
A schedule is a list of channels preceded by a scan In applications where power consumption is critical, the read once, or read multiple times as in the next example:
trigger specification. As a general rule don't read channels data†aker has a sleep mode which reduces battery
more frequently than necessary (for example, temperature current draw from 120 – 400mA to less than 0.4mA. RA1S 2..4TT returns data in the default format (in this case every one 2TT 451.5 Deg C
usually changes slowly, so rapid reading does not provide The data†aker automatically wakes from sleep mode
second (RA1S) for three thermocouple type T channels). 3TT 563.2 Deg C
extra information). when input channels are to be scanned. Plan your program
4TT 487.8 Deg C
You can declare up to four different schedules, each to ensure that the data†aker does not wake more often Channels (page 4).
with a different scan trigger based on a time interval or a than is necessary. This particularly applies to the Statistical 2TT 451.9 Deg C
Sensors can be wired to channels, calibrated and tested
digital input event. The schedule's trigger can be changed Sub-schedules (see page 3) and Alarms (see page 9). ...
prior to full program entry.
at any time. This allows the trigger to be modified under
program control (see "Alarm - Action Text" on page 9).
A list of channels without a trigger specification may be
Data Logging ... page 8 /n/u P22=44 changes the output format (in this case channel number and 452.0,565.4,451.0
The data†aker stores data in internal memory units are disabled, and data separator is ASCII 44 – the comma) 452.3,566.2,450.5
entered at any time. These are scanned immediately,
(166,530 readings) and in a Memory Card (almost 1.4 million
without affecting other schedules which may be operating.
readings). The internal memory acts as a buffer for the
A schedule's channel list cannot be altered without
re-entering all schedules. In fact all schedules must be
Memory Card, so that data is not lost during card changes. Sample Program ... collect some data
The data†aker stops logging when both memories
entered at the same time, either all on one line or between Comments can follow the
are full. Overwrite mode allows continuous logging, with the ' Boiler monitoring program for the dataTaker 600
BEGIN and END keywords (see "Schedules" on page 3). apostrophe character, up to a
oldest data overwritten by new readings. See "Data Logging
and Retrieval" on page 8 and "Switches - /O" on page 11.
' Author: Henry Higgins 23/4/95 carriage return.
Scaling and Calculations ... page 7 You can selectively log channels (see "Channel Options
Commands Only upper case characters are accepted.
The data†aker can scale channel data to engineering - Output format" on page 5). Logging begins after you issue
units using polynomials, spans, intrinsic functions and intra- a LOGON command. Time and date stamping is automatic. CSCANS CALARMS CLEAR CDATA Commands must be separated by one or more spaces or carriage
returns, and are not processed until a carriage return is received.
channel or inter-channel calculations. Statistical functions The data†aker does everything possible to avoid
including averaging and histograms can also be applied. data loss caused by careless use. However it does respond /n/u/S/e Switches (page 11) determine system function (upper case is ON and lower case is OFF) .
to the RESET, CLEAR, CLAST, CTEST and CDATA
P22=44 Parameters (page 11) are internal system settings which
Data Reduction ... pages 3, 6, 9 commands, which will erase data from memory, without
question. Be very careful. determine system function. Most can be set and all can be read.
In many instances you can reduce the volume of the
data recorded by taking averages, maximums, minimums,
Y10=4.5,0.213"KPa" Scaling (page 7) Various methods can be used to scale output data to
standard deviations, histograms or integrals. Use conditional Data Retrieval ... page 8 S1=0,50,0,100"L/m" engineering units. These are the Channel Factors, Functions, Spans,
statements to determine when data is logged (see "Trigger Data stored in internal memory or Memory Card can be Polynomials and Calculations.
While" on page 3, and "Alarms" on page 9). retrieved via the RS232 Comms or Network ports. Data ALARM1(1V>2.25)3DSO
stored in a Memory Card can also be retrieved using a ALARM2(4TT>110.0)3DSO,1DSO"Over temp. ?[RB5S]" Alarms (page 9) detect out of
Alarms ... page 9
Memory Card Reader or the PC-Card slot in a notebook PC. ALARM3(4TT<100.0)" [RB1M]" range conditions. Can also be used
to change logger function, schedule
The Alarm facility of the data†aker is flexible and BEGIN & END see
powerful. Alarms are used to warn of error conditions and to The Operating Environment BEGIN Schedules on page 3
timing, control outputs and event
annunciation.
control the data†aker' s operation. The key words The data†aker is an electronic instrument.
ALARM and IF have identical meaning. Alarms allow Electronics and water do not mix! Condensation can be a
RB1M 2..4TT ("Temp")
serious problem in the tropics and in cooler areas where RC15M 1V(AV,Y10) 6L(AV,S1)
• logical comparisons with set points Schedules (page 3). Four general purpose schedules
• control of digital output on the alarm condition wide temperature variations are possible. Use a sealed
case, and include sachets of silica jell, to avoid problems. END (RA, RB, RC and RD), each a list of channels to be scanned
• issuing of messages to the host computer and Display at programmable time intervals or on events. A special
• execution of data†aker commands If your data†aker gets wet, immediately disconnect
the power and batteries, and dry the logger in a warm place. LOGON schedule (RX) allows polling from a host computer.
Executing data†aker commands from an alarm can be If the data†aker has come into contact with salt water, G Logging (page 8)
particularly useful in modifying the data†aker ' s program rinse thoroughly in fresh water, then distilled water, then dry. Global data logging is activated
in response to changes in input(s). Salt must not be allowed to remain on the circuit boards. by the LOGON command. Channels (page 4). A wide range of channel types provide
data†aker operates over a wide temperature range, Disable logging of particular sensor support. Options allow custom configuration. Channel
Programming .. see Sample Program opposite however accuracy can be reduced. While the electrical zero channels by the NL channel lists entered without a schedule ID return data immediately
and cannot be logged to memory.
You program the data†aker by entering schedules is stable with temperature, the scale factor can drift slightly. option.
and commands. Entered commands are not processed until Endeavour to minimise exposure to temperature extremes.
a carriage return is received. The input buffer is 254 Scan control commands – see page 3
characters, so command lines must not exceed this length.
Each command must be separated by one or more spaces,
Operating Scenarios ...
You can deploy data†aker in many ways depending
tabs or carriage returns. All schedules must be entered on on factors such as location, data volume, power availability Data Retrieval ... show me my data
one line or placed between the BEGIN and END keywords. • on-line to a computer with data†aker as a front end
The BEGIN END construct is also very useful for /n/u P22=32 Disables channel identification and units, and sets the output format to ASCII 32 (i.e. space)
• periodic down loading to an on-line host
enhancing program clarity. When the BEGIN keyword is delimited data.
• periodic down loading to a portable computer
encountered the data†aker is halted and prepared to • periodic down loading via modem to a host, initiated
receive a new program. As each line of the program is U Begins to unload stored data, oldest data first (if a memory card is fitted, card data is unloaded first).
either by the host computer or by the data†aker
entered it is compiled into a new task. The END keyword • data recovery (and programming) using the removable
indicates that all schedules have been entered. Q Terminates unload.
memory cards
While the BEGIN – END construct is necessary only for
the entry of multi-line schedules, it can contain any other The method of deployment influences the fine tuning of the CLEAR Clears data from the data†aker' s internal memory and disables logging.
commands. Placing switches, parameter definitions, and data†aker ' s program. As a general rule it is better to
alarms in the construct gives a program a more structured recover data as often as reasonably possible. In this way CDATA Clears data from the memory card (if fitted). Logging is not disabled. Data from the logger’s internal
and easy to read appearance, especially if indenting is used. sensor failures, program faults, etc. will be detected earlier. memory is copied to the card.
 Page 3
Schedules ... what to do, when to do it

Introduction Schedule A Schedule B This Example has two schedules

Schedules have three parts: a schedule identification, a • Schedule A scans every 10 minutes
scan trigger, and a list of channels to scan. RA10M 1..5V RB1H:2W 1..4DS 6..9PT385(AV)(MX) 2C(R) (RA10M), reporting channels 1 through
RA2M:1W 1V 2R 3..5TT 5 as voltage data.
• Schedule B scans every hour ( RB1H)
while digital input 2 is true ( :2W),
Schedule ID Trigger Channel List
reporting the state of digital inputs 1
through 4 ( 1..4DS), the average and
Schedule ID maximum temperatures from RTDs
data†aker provides four distinct types of schedules which connected to channels 6 through 9
are identified by their schedule ID Channel Lists Statistical Sub-schedule (6..9PT385(AV)(MX)), and the
Any set of channels (see page 4) separated by at least Channels can be read frequently and a statistical data interval count on the resetting counter
RA, RB, RC, RD triggered schedules
one space character is a Channel List. For example summary can be returned, logged and displayed at longer channel 2 ( 2C(R)). The statistical
RX polled schedule. (X from host)
intervals determined by RA, RB, RC, RD or RX schedules. sampling is as fast as possible.
RS statistical sub-schedule 1..5V 6TK("Boiler Temp") 1DSO=1
The statistical scan is a sub-schedule. Channels to be
RZ alarm schedule - see page 9 where 1..5V is a voltage channel sequence 1 through 5 statistically scanned must have a Channel Option to indicate
The schedule identifier (except for the RX schedule) is inclusive, 6TK is a type K thermocouple channel named the statistical data required (see "Channel Options" on page Scan and Sample Order
followed by a trigger – a Time Interval or an Event, and " Boiler Temp" and 1DSO=1 sets digital output channel 5, "Statistical Channels" on page 6). If two or more statistical When different schedules are due to scan at the same
optionally a While condition. If there is no schedule ID or 1 ON. Channels are processed left to right. data is required, then each statistical option must be placed in time, the schedules are scanned in the order of RA, RB, RC,
trigger, then the channel list (up to the next carriage return) is a separate option list (see "Multiple Reports" on page 4) RD and RZ. When there are statistical channels in a
scanned once immediately. If the trigger is omitted, then the
channel list is scanned as rapidly as possible until halted.
Triggered Schedules 1TT(AV)(SD)(MX)
schedule, and the statistical sub-schedule is due at the same
time as the reporting schedule, the channels are scanned
Triggered schedules begin with the schedule identifiers
The trigger for the statistical sub-schedule is defined in statistically prior to reporting. You cannot change this order.
RA, RB, RC or RD. They scan their channel lists at
Trigger by Time Interval intervals and times determined by the trigger (see left).
the same way as for the main scan schedule (see Triggers ...
beside), using the RS identification. If you do not specify the
Channels within schedules are sampled in the order of entry.
The RX polled schedule is scanned after receipt of each
An integer number of seconds, minutes, hours or days
RS schedule's trigger, the sample rate will be as fast as X command.
defines a schedule scan interval Polled Schedule possible. You may change the RS schedule at any time
nS seconds nD days Channels in the RX schedule are scanned and reported
nM minutes nH hours only when the host computer or an ALARM (see "Action
RS10S
RS30M
sample every 10 seconds
sample every 30 minutes
Changing a Schedule Trigger
none as rapidly as possible Commands" on page 9) issues the X command. The RX You can change a schedule's trigger at any time simply
RS1-E sample on each 1 to 0 transition of digital input 1 by entering a new schedule ID and trigger without a channel
schedule will not accept a trigger.
where n is in the range 1 to 65535. For example RA5S will RS sample as rapidly as possible list as follows
scan every 5 seconds. The first scan occurs on the next
multiple of the interval since last midnight (see "Synchronise Entering Schedules ... BEGIN & END If the statistical sub-schedule is halted by a HS command,
then statistical sampling of channels is stopped and the
RC10M:2W
to Midnight" in column 3 beside). The reporting schedules ( RA,RB,RC,RD and RX) must If you include a channel list, then a new schedule is
reported statistical summaries do not include data from this
OR be entered as a group. If extending over more than one line, created which replaces all previous schedules unless these
halt period. This is most significant for the integral summary.
they must be between the keywords BEGIN and END, as in
Trigger on Events If statistical channels have not been scanned before they previous schedules have logged data into memory, or logging
is enabled by the LOGON command (see page 8), or the
Digital inputs n DS (excluding CEM), low speed counters BEGIN are reported, then these channels report error E53 (see "Error
RA10S 4TT("Oven Temp") Messages" on page 21) and data is set to 99999.9. This schedules are locked by the /F Switch command (see
n C and high speed counters nHCS can also trigger scans
5TK("Flue Temp") condition can occur when the RS trigger is an event, the "Switches /F" on page 11).
nE trigger on + and – transitions of a digital input RB1S statistical sub-schedule has been halted, or a statistical scan
n +E trigger on + transition of a digital input
n –E trigger on – transition of a digital input
1C("Gas Flow") interval is longer than the reporting time interval. Halting & Resuming Schedules
END An example of a schedule including statistical sampling is Schedules can be halted individually or as a group:
n C(c) trigger after c counts on a low speed counter
Each line can be up to 254 characters long. Channels on RA1H RS10S 1TT 2TT(AV)(MX)
n HSC trigger after ANY counts on a high speed counter H Halt all schedules including alarms
lines without a schedule header are included in the previous
where n is a digital channel (can also be a channel sequence schedule. A carriage return must terminate each line, and which returns three temperature readings – a spot reading HA,HB,HC,HD Halt RA, RB, RC or RD schedule
n..m). For example RA1+E will scan every 0 to 1 transition of each hour of channel 1, and the average and maximum over HS Halt the statistical sub-schedule
separate last channel definition and next schedule header.
digital input 1, RA2..3-E will scan every 1 to 0 transition of the hour from 10 second samplings of channel 2. HZ Halt the alarm schedule
When the BEGIN keyword is received then all schedules
digital input channel 2 OR 3. Transitions can also be (including alarms) are Halted, and previous RA,RB,RC,RD The polled schedule RX cannot be halted. HX will generate
generated by ALARMs (see "Action Commands" on page 9).
Note: If a counter input is preset outside of the trigger range
and RX schedules are deleted unless data logging is enabled Synchronize to Midnight - /S an error message.
Corresponding commands for resuming (or Going) the
(see "Data Logging" on page 8), the scan schedules are Scan timing synchronizes to previous midnight. Schedules
(eg. 2C(10)=15), then a trigger will not occur. locked (see "/F" on page 11), or the memory contains data. with a time trigger will scan on every multiple of the time schedules are G, GA, GB, GC, GD, GS and GZ.
AND OPTIONALLY The BEGIN - END construct may contain blank lines, and interval since last midnight. For example RA10H will scan at

Trigger While (condition is true)

any other data†aker commands (these are executed on
entry). When the END is received, the original Halt - Go
10:00:00, 20:00:00, 10:00:00 (on the next day), and so on. Locking Schedules
If synchronization is disabled (See "Switches - /s" on Schedules can be locked by the /F Switch command, to
A schedule's trigger can be enabled or disabled by the state is restored. You cannot append additional channels to a page 11), scanning is then relative to the time that schedules prevent them from being accidentally changed or deleted.
state of one or more digital input channels ( n D), by schedule once it has been entered. Instead you must re-enter are entered. RA10H entered at 09:30:00 will scan at 19:30:00 The schedules can be unlocked by the /f Switch command.
appending a While to either a Time Interval or an Event. the full set of schedules, including the additional channels. on the first day, at 05:30:00 and 15:30:00 on the next day, at
01:30:00 and 11:30:00 on the following day, and so on.
:n W enable while digital input n is high
: n..m W enable if ANY digital input n to m is high. Immediate Scans Clearing Schedules
The command
Note that the colon is required. For example the schedule A channel list with no schedule ID or trigger is scanned Returning Entered Schedules CSCANS
once immediately. The channel list can be scanned again by The STATUS2 command returns the currently entered
RA1E:2W will scan on every transition of digital input one erases all schedules. However if any schedule(s) has stored
(1D) only while digital input two ( 2D) is high. the ✶ (asterisk) command. Immediate scans are not logged. scan schedules and channel lists up to a maximum of 512
An immediate scan should be given time to execute before a data into memory, or data logging is enabled by LOGON, or
characters. See "Other Commands" on page 10.
NOTE: Digital inputs are not read while the logger is asleep, BEGIN command is issued. If requests for immediate scans schedules are locked by /F, then the data†aker will issue
and so n E, nC and :n W triggers will not be detected. High are too rapid, then data may be appended. Set P22=13 to the error message E4 or E48 (see "Error Messages" on
speed counter triggers ( nHSC) will be detected on next wake. overcome this by ensuring a return character after each data. page 21). You cannot erase individual schedules.
 Page 4
Channel Types ... how to specify channels

Introduction This Example declares a thermocouple type J,

The analog and digital channels of the data†aker are multipurpose. Two Channel Numbers separated by two or more points (ie. "..") connected to channel 5 as a single ended input. Channel
Channel specification determines the internal signal routing, excitation, defines a continuous sequence of channels. If the first label indicates a 5+TJ(AV,NL)(MX,NL) Option NL indicates that the channel is not to be logged. The
sampling method and data processing. A channel is defined by a Channel single ended channel, then the channels included depends on the first logger returns two values: the average reading (AV) at report
Number, Channel Type, and possibly one or more Channel Options. single ended channel label as follows: time and the maximum (MX) since the previous report time.
1..5 is equivalent to 1 2 3 4 5
Channel Number 1+..3– ➾ 1+ 1– 2+ 2– 3+ 3– Channel Multiple Reports are possible from each
Each input and output channel has a channel number. Each single 1–..4+ ➾ 1– 2+ 2– 3+ 3– 4+ Number channel by adding additional sets of Channel Options. The
ended analog input has a suffix label corresponding to a screw terminal: 1✶..2+ ➾ 1✶ 1+ 1– 2✶ 2+ data†aker samples the channel (eg. 5+TJ) once every
1#..4# ➾ 1# 2# 3# 4# Channel Type
✶ Excite output or positive single ended input terminal scan, however the second and subsequent sets of (Channel
Label
+ Positive differential or positive single ended input terminal The DT50 does not support the excite terminal as a single ended input. Options) generate additional reports. This is particularly
Channel Options useful for statistical reports (see "Schedules" on page 3) and
– Negative differential or positive single ended input terminal
(see page 5) display formatting (see "Channel Options" on page 5).
# Return common or single ended current input terminal Channel Expansion Module Address and default The first Channel Option set determines how the channel
Thus 5V defines a differential input between the + and – terminals, while The Channel Expansion Module (CEM) channels are addressed by options column is sampled, and must include all sampling options required
5✶V, 5+V and 5–V defines single ended inputs between the ✶, + or – prefixing the module number and colon to the channel number. for the channel. These Channel Options are listed above the
terminals respectively and the R terminal. Similarly 5#I defines a single eg. 2:5V indicates channel 5 on the second CEM. "Config Line" in the Channel
ended current input between the R terminal and a GND (ground) terminal. Options table on page 5. If
The DT50 does not support the excite ✶ terminal as a single ended input.

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Voltage Voltage ±25mV, ±250mV and ±2.5V ranges 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – V 1V 1+V (1.0, T*) attenuation factor 1µV mV 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Common mode range ±3.5V.
High voltage ±7V, ±70V and ±100V ranges * 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – HV * 2HV (1.0, A) attenuation factor 250µV V 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Common mode range ±100V (DT505, 515, 605, 615 only).

Current Current, internal 100Ω shunt or external shunt. 10 / 40 5 / 15 10 / 40 ✶, +, –, # I 3#I (100.0, T* ) current shunt Ω 10nA mA 7, 8, 8a The internal 100.0Ω shunts are between Return ( #) and
4-20mA current loop. 10 / 40 5 / 15 10 / 40 ✶, +, –, # L 1#..5#L (100.0, T*or A ) current shunt Ω 0.01% Percent 7, 8, 8a Ground Terminals. eg. 3#I, 5#L(S2).

Resistance Resistance by 2, 3 or 4 wire methods, 7KΩ max. 10 / 20 5 / 10 10 / 20 +, – R 4R(II) (I) – 1mΩ Ohms 9, 10, 11, 12 Four wire configuration requires ( 4W) option.

Bridge 3 & 4 wire, 1/4, 1/2 & full bridge, current excitation. 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – BGI 1BGI(60) (350.0, II ) arm resistance Ω 1ppm ppm 13,14, 15 Four wire full bridge use ( 4W) option (see Bridges page 17)
Ratiometric, 4 & 6 wire bridges, voltage excitation. 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – BGV 1BGV (0.0, V, 4W) offset in ppm 0.1ppm ppm 16, 17 External completion required for 1/2 & 1/4 bridges.

Frequency Frequency (analog channels, 0.102Hz to 20KHz). 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – F 2F(F2) (30.0, T*) longest period mS 1mHz Hz 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 0.102Hz to 20kHz, use (2V) option for 0 – 5 volt single
Period (analog channels, 50µS to 9.8S). 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – P 2–P(X) (30.0, T*) longest period mS 1µS uS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 ended inputs, but for low level (100mV) input to 300kHz.
Vibrating wire sensor - frequency ** 10 / 30 - 10 / 30 ✶, +, – FW ** 3+FW ( ES9, 200.0 ) delay in mS 0.01Hz Hz 2 Geologger DT515 and DT615 models only.

Time Time of day. 1 1 – none T T () – 1S Time – See "Time" and "Date" sections on page 6.
Day or date. 1 1 – none D D () – 1D Day –
System timers (for program control etc). 4 4 – none ST 1ST (60),(60),(24),(7) range 1 Counts internal Increment every sec (1ST), min ( 2ST), hr (3ST), day (4ST).

Temperature Thermocouples B, C, D, E, G, J, K, N, R, S and T. 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – TB, TC .. TT 3TJ (1.0, T*) attenuation factor 0.1°C DegC*** 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 See "Thermocouples" on page 16.
Platinum RTD's (α = 0.00385, 0.00392). 10 / 20 5 / 10 10 / 20 +, – PT385, PT392 5PT392 (100.0, II ) 0°C resistance Ω 0.1°C DegC*** 9, 10, 11,12 Three wire is the default connection (see "RTDs"
Nickel RTD's (α = 0.005001). 10 / 20 5 / 10 10 / 20 +, – NI 1NI(50) (1000.0, I ) 0°C resistance Ω 0.1°C DegC*** 9, 10, 11,12 on page 16), however a 4 wire connection ( 4W)
Copper RTD (α = 0.0039) 10 / 20 5 / 10 10 / 20 +, – CU CU(135) ( 100, II ) 0°C resistance Ω 0.1°C DegC*** 9, 10, 11,12 can be used for greater measurement accuracy.
Thermistors (Yellow Springs 400XX series). 10 / 20 5 / 10 10 / 20 +, – YS01..07,16,17 2YS04 ( 1e10, I ) parallel resistor Ω 0.1°C DegC*** 9, 10, 11,12 See "Thermistors" on page 16.
AD590 & AD592 (Analog Devices). 10 / 40 5 / 15 10 / 40 ✶, +, –, # AD590 4AD590 (100.0, V) shunt resistor Ω 0.1°C DegC*** 18, 7, 8 Calibrate by variation of shunt value channel factor.
LM335 (National Semiconductor Corp.). 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – LM335 3LM335 (2.0, V) attenuation factor 0.1°C DegC*** 18, 4, 5 Slope correction via attenuation factor relative to 0°K.
LM34 & LM35 (National Semiconductor Corp.). 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – LM34, LM35 5LM35 (1.0, V) calibration factor 0.1°C DegC*** 20, 21, 1, 2, 3 Calibration slope correction relative to 0°C or 0°F.

Digital State input on a digital channel. 4 5 20 none DS 4DS () – 1 State 22 If averaging, increase precision with FF n option.
Byte input on a group of digital channels. 1 (4 bit) 1 (5 bit) 2 (8 bit) none DB 1DB(7) (255) bit mask (decimal) 1 Byte 22 Result is 0 to 15 (or 32). Channel No. = LSB of byte.
Digital state input on an analog channel. 10 / 30 5 / 10 10 / 30 ✶, +, – AS 5–AS (2500, T*) threshold (mV) 1 State 1, 2, 3, 4, 25 If averaging, increase precision with the FF n option.
Output on a single digital channel. "1" = ON & low 4 5 10 none DSO 3DSO=1 (0) delay or width (mS) – – 23,24 Delay < 65,535mS, nDSO(delay,R) will generate pulses.
Byte output on a group of digital channels. 1 (4 bit) 1 (5 bit) 1 (8 bit) none DBO 1DBO=0 (255) bit mask (decimal) – – 23,24 0's in mask not modified. Channel No. = LSB of byte
Display (if present) backlight, LED's and beeper. 6 6 – none WARN 3WARN=1 ( 0) delay or width (mS) – – internal Display panel, 1-3=LED, 4=beep, 5-6=backlight (page 12)

Counts Up counter (10Hz maximum). 4 5 – none C 1..4C (65536) range 1 Counts 22 Count range is 0-65535. eg. 1C(3) counts 0,1,2,0,1 etc.
Phase encoder up-down counter (connect 3D,4D). 1 1 – none PE 1PE (65536) range 1 Counts 22 Presetting a counter outside of the maximum count
High speed counter (1KHz maximum). 3 3 – none HSC 3HSC (65536) range 1 Counts 22 range (eg. 1C(5)=8) will cause an error (99999.9).
High speed counter prescaler output. 1 1 – none HSCO 1HSCO(0) (2) prescaler mode 1 none CMOS level Set high speed counter 1HSC output mode (see page 18).

System Data System variable. 14 14 – none SV 3..5SV () – 1 none – See "System Variables" on page 6.

Variables General purpose variables for calculations etc. 100 100 – none CV 5CV () – 6 digits none – Assigned via Channel Options, return as for a channel.

Text General purpose text for heading etc 1 1 – none $ $ () – – – – Assigned by $="text" maximum 80 characters, see page 6.
*differential only ***also °F, °K, °R - see P36 on page 11
* Relay multiplexer models only
** Geologger models only Indicates the capacity for each model The ✶ terminal not available for input on DT50 See Channel Options
 Page 5
Channel Options ... in brackets, separated by commas, no spaces

Introduction Channel Number Channel Type This example configures the logger for
Channel Options allow the tailoring of channels for comma separated (no spaces allowed) and in any order. 4 wire ( 4W) resistance measurement of an
input configuration, sensor excitation, statistical reporting, When the same channel is listed more than once, each RTD temperature sensor. The sensor is a
platinum temperature sensor (PT385) which
variable assignment, and output format. Enclose options
in brackets after the Channel Type. Channel Options are
listing is treated as a separate entity, with options
applying only to the listing in which they are placed.
5PT385(4W,200.0,"Steam Temp",FF0) has a 200Ω resistance at 0°C. The channel
Channel Options is labelled "Steam Temp" for output, and

m ion
FF0 sets the output resolution to 1°C. The

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instead of the default:
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Input termination T Terminates +, – inputs with 1MΩ to ground 1 Provides input bias current path. Defaults ON for most differential inputs and off for single-ended types. 5PT385 265.7 DegC
U Un-terminates +, – inputs 1 Input impedance >100MΩ. Signal source must provide input bias current path (approx. 5nA).
Resistance 4W Configures input for a 4 wire measurement 1 Default resistance & constant current bridge (BGI) measurement method is by a three wire method. Four wire method is usually more accurate.
Single ended input X Use SE Ref terminal as common 1 Input applied between + or – or ✶ and SE Ref. (Single Ended Reference) terminals.
2V Use internal 2.500 Vref as common 1 Input applied between + or – or ✶ and GND or R. The Datataker applies a 2.500V offset to GND. Ground currents can cause small errors.
Gain GL n Gain Lock 1,10,100 1 Inhibits auto-ranging and presets amplifier gain to 1, 10 or 100 respectively.
A, NA Attenuation, No Attenuation 1 Controls attenuator on DT5x5/6x5 models – A switches attenuator in and NA switches attenuator out. See Appendices re DT505/605 and DT515/615.
Excite terminal G Guard signal 1 Provides a voltage equal to the input common mode voltage via approx. 6KΩ. For high impedance signal sources where cable leakage is a problem.
(output current V Voltage source approx. 4.5V via 1KΩ 1 Useful for powering some sensors, however it is not regulated and is likely to drift with temperature.
or voltage) I Current source 250.0µA 1 Default current source for Resistance measurement. Very stable over environmental temperature range. These conditions are established 10mS before
II Current source 2.500mA 1 Default source for RTD and bridge measurement. Very stable over environmental temperature range. the channel is sampled. This settling time can be
N Open circuit excite terminal (no excitation) 1 Excite terminal may be used as a single ended input channel. (Not available on DT50). changed by 7SV and P10 - see pages 6 and 11.
Special Mx:y all above Special input signal routing 0 to 255 1 e.g. 0%V(M18:156, 101.0) returns battery voltage and 0%I(M18:188, –0.20) returns battery current (positive indicates charging, negative discharging).
ESn Extra samples 0 to 15 1 Allows addition sequential samples to be taken at scan time and averages the results. Results in reduced noise and increased resolution.
Resetting (to zero) R Reset counter, timer, variable after reading 2 Valid only for counters, system timers, variables e.g. nCV(R) and for pulsing digital outputs (e.g. 1DSO(1000,R)=1 pulses output on for 1000mS).
Scaling f.f Channel factor ±1e18 2 Generally a scale factor specific to channel type (see "Channel Factor" column on page 4).
Yn Polynomial 1 to 20 3 Applies a previously defined polynomial of form Yn =a,b,c,d,f,g "text" (see "Polynomials" on page 7).
Sn Span 1 to 20 * 3 Applies a previously defined span of form Sn =physical low, physical upper, signal lower, signal upper"text " (see "Spans" on page 7).
Fn Intrinsic functions 1 to 7 3 1 = 1/x, 2 = √x, 3 = Ln(x), 4 = Log(x), 5 = Absolute(x), 6 = x**2, 7 = Grey code to binary conversion (8 bit).
Data manipulation DF Difference ∆x = (current - previous reading) 4 Returns the difference between latest reading and the previous reading. These options cannot be used directly in alarms. The channel must
(cannot be used RC Rate of change (per second) ∆x/∆t 4 Rate of change based on latest and previous readings and their respective times. be included in a scan schedule where the channel value is assigned
in Alarms) RS Reading / time difference in seconds x/∆t 4 Useful when the sensor reading is already a difference (e.g. resetting counters). to a variable which can then be tested in alarm statements.
IB "Integrate" ( x_units.seconds) (x - ∆x/2)*∆t 4 "Integration" with respect to time between two readings - the latest and previous. e.g. RA2S 1V(RC,=1CV) RZ2S ALARM1(1CV>0.45) 1DSO
Reference channel TR Thermocouple reference temperature 5 Any non-thermocouple temperature sensor measuring isothermal block temperature. If already compensated use 11SV(TR) as reference channel.
(not logged or TZ Thermocouple reference zero channel 5 An electrical zero as measured at isothermal block (see "Thermocouples" on page 16)
displayed) BR Bridge excitation voltage channel 5 Used to nominate a voltage channel as reference for ratiometric bridge measurements (see "Bridges" on page 17) Config Line – see "Multiple
Statistical AV Average of channel readings 6 Average Reports" on page 4
(cannot be used SD Standard deviation of channel readings 6 Standard deviation These channel options link the channel to the statistical sub-schedule RS. The channel will be
in Alarms) MX Maximum channel reading 6 Maximum sampled at times determined by the RS trigger (which defaults to continuous rapid scanning). At the report
MN Minimum channel reading 6 Minimum time as determined by the RA, RB, RC, RD or RX schedules, the statistical summary will be reported. If no
TMX Time of maximum channel reading 6 Time of maximum sample has been taken before the reporting time, then an error (9999.9) is reported.
TMN Time of minimum channel reading 6 Time of minimum NOTE: Statistical options are not valid in alarms. If you want to alarm on a statistical value then use a
DMX Date of maximum channel reading 6 Date of maximum channel variable (i.e. n CV) to pass the statistical value to the alarm.
DMN Date of minimum channel reading 6 Date of minimum
INT Integral for channel 6 Integral The time integral's time base is seconds. For other time bases apply a Span or Polynomial e.g. Y1=0,2.778e-4"AHrs" for hours.
Hx: y:n.. mCV Histogram x = lower limit, y = upper limit x,y ±1e18 6 Report time sampling, the results are place in variables n..(m-3) CV classes, (m-2) CV under range, (m-1) CV overange, m CV total counts (see page 6)
Variables =nCV Assign channel reading to variable 1 to 100 7 Assign
The variables are like memory registers in a calculator. You can assign them directly (e.g. 1CV =2.5) or assign a channel reading to
+= nCV Add channel reading to variable 1 to 100 7 Add
the variable at scan time (e.g. 1V(=7CV) ). You can read the contents of a variable, modify it and then replace it with the modified
–=n CV Subtract channel reading from variable 1 to 100 7 Subtract
value. For example 1V(/=7CV) means the value of 7CV is divided by the reading on channel 1 and the result is returned to 7CV.
✶=nCV Multiply variable by channel reading 1 to 100 7 Multiply
NOTE: These actions occur only at report times and not during statistical sampling.
/= nCV Divide variable by channel reading 1 to 100 7 Divide
Output format FFn Fixed point n = decimal places 0 to 6 8 e.g. FF2 returns 71.46 mV
FE n Exponential, n = significant digits 0 to 6 8 e.g. FE2 returns 7.14e1 mV
FMn Mixed FF and FE, n = decimal places 0 to 6 8 Uses exponential format if exponent is less than – 4 or greater than n
"text" User defined channel name text ascii text 8 Replaces the channel type text returned to host (when enabled by /C, /U, /N), and on the top line of the display (if present).
NR No return 8 Channels tagged with NR are not returned to the host computer. Useful for display channels (e.g. Bar Graphs) that need special formatting.
NL No log (cannot be used in Alarms) 8 Channels tagged with NL are not logged, but they are returned to the host computer.
ND No display 8 Channels tagged with ND cannot be displayed on the LCD screen (if present) in either normal or display list modes.
W Working or intermediate channel 8 Channels declared as intermediate working channels are not reported or displayed unless the working switch is on (/W). They are not logged.
BG x:y Bar graph ±1e18 8 Plots a bar graph on display. x = lower limit and y = upper limit. (see "Bar Graph" on page 12).

* Poly & Span

Options grouped by a bar are mutually exclusive. If more than one of a mutual index shared, a Order of Application - this column indicates the order in which the options are applied. This order is independent of the order you list the
exclusion group is placed in a channel list, then only the last is applied. total of 20 allowed options. For example the table shows that the logger evaluates a polynomial ( Yn ) before a difference (DF).
 Page 6
Time and Other Channels ... channels on the inside Statistical Operations ... great for reducing data
Realtime Clock The string is defined by $="text string ", and the current
string is returned (or Unloaded) whenever $ is included in a
Introduction Integration (INT)
The data†aker has a hardware clock, that is backed Channels and Variables can be sampled frequently and Integration returns the integral (or "area under the
channel list. Control characters are entered in the format
up by the system lithium battery. The clock maintains time statistical data returned at longer intervals (see "Statistical curve") with respect to time in seconds using a trapezoidal
^M for carriage return, ^J for line feed (see list on page 23).
and date during RESET and power down. Sub-schedule" on page 3). The channels are sampled at approximation. The units of integration are those of the
A Time and Date stamp can be added to real time data the RS schedule interval (default is 1 second) for the period original reading multiplied by seconds, or "units.secs".
(see "Switches /T and /D" on page 11). Time and Date System Variables - nSV between report times, and the statistical data is generated When applied to a flow rate sensor
stamp are automatically logged whenever data is stored. System Variables provide various system values. These and returned at report time.
S5=0,0.1,0,1000"litres"
are used in the same way as channels (see page 5). Channels that require statistical sampling must include
3F("Fuel Consumption",S5,INT)
Time 1SV Data points free in internal memory a Channel Option to indicate the statistical information to
generate. These Channel Options are integration returns the volume of the flow
Time is based on a 24 hour clock, with a resolution of one 2SV Data points stored in internal memory
second. Time is read in the same way as any channel, but 3SV Data points free in card memory Option Description Appended to Units Fuel Consumption 34.54 litres (Int)
without a Channel Number 4SV Data points stored in card memory AV average (Ave) The flow rate sensor with a frequency output ( 3F) is scaled
5SV Number of statistical scans in last schedule SD standard deviation (SD) by a span ( S5 - see "Spans" on page 7) and then
T returns Time 11:45:10 6SV Number of remote network errors (also P9) MX maximum (Max) integrated. Note that the span units have been declared as
The time format is defined by Parameter P39 as follows 7SV ADC settling time in mS ( P10), defaults to 10mS MN minimum (Min) litres, which is the result after integration, although the
P39 Format Example 8SV Mains frequency in Hz (P11), defaults to 50/60Hz TMX time of maximum (Tmx) span calibration is actually in litres per second.
9SV =1 if memory card inserted, =0 if card not inserted TMN time of minimum (Tmn)
0 (default) hours:minute:seconds 11:45:10 10SV Returns the schedule ID from which it is returned
1 seconds since midnight 42310
0 for RX (poll by host) 4 for RD schedule
DMX
DMN
date of maximum
date of minimum
(Dmx)
(Dmn)
Histogram (H x :y :n..m CV)
2 decimal hours 11.7528 The data†aker can generate a histogram (frequency
1 for RA schedule 5 for Immediate scan INT integral (Int)
System Variable 12SV returns Day.Time as decimal days. distribution) of channel samples. When the channel is
2 for RB schedule 6 for RZ (alarm schedule) ( Hx:y:n.. mCV histogram none )
sampled at report time, the channel value is returned and
Parameter P40 defines the separator in the hh:mm:ss 3 for RC schedule
format, which defaults to ASCII 58 (:). The statistical option is defined by including it as a channel the respective range class for the reading is incremented.
The Time must be set in the time format defined by P39 11SV Returns 0.0 (useful as a reference channel) option in parentheses after the channel type. For example The class frequencies are stored in Channel Variables, and
and P40. For example if P39=2 (in this case P40 does 12SV Decimal day.time e.g. 56.5 is midday of day 56 are returned, logged and cleared in another schedule.
13SV Returns the logger's address
RA1M 3TT(AV)
not matter), then the time must be set as a decimal value classes
14SV System attenuation factor (default = 214.61) will return
T=11.7528 15SV Returns date as day number of the current year Number of class interval
3TT 103.7 Deg C (Ave) occurrences
Note: System Variables normally have no decimal places. which is the average ( AV) temperature over one minute (counts)
Date Use the FFn option to increase the resolution. (RA1M) for the type T thermocouple which is connected to
The realtime clock also maintains the Date that is read Values or expressions can be assigned to the System channel 3 ( 3TT). The text (Ave) is appended to the units
in the same way as a channel, without a Channel Number Variables 7SV and 8SV. For example to indicate that the data is an average. x Channel Reading Range y
D returns Date 25/12/2001 7SV=15 If statistical channels have not been sampled before
A histogram is specified as a Channel Option as follows
they are reported, then error E53 (see "Error Messages" on
The date format is set by Parameter P31 as follows sets the ADC settling time to 15mS (see "ADC Details" on
page 18). Assignments to 7SV and 8SV can be within a
page 20) is reported and data returned as 99999.9. This Hx :y :n ..m CV
P31 Format Example condition is likely to occur when the RS trigger is an event, where
schedule, and the assignment is executed each time the
the statistical sub-schedule has been halted or a statistical x is the lowest channel reading of interest
0 Day number ddddd 724 schedule scans. Assignments outside of a schedule are
scan interval (RS) is longer than the reporting time interval. y is the highest channel reading of interest ( y > x)
1 European dd/mm/yyyy 25/12/2001 executed once immediately. n is the first Channel Variable (n CV) to store counts
If statistical options are part of a Multiple Report
2 N America mm/dd/yyyy 12/25/2001 m is the last Channel Variable ( m CV) to store counts
channel (see page 4), then each option list must contain a
System Variable 12SV returns Day.Time as decimal days. System Timers - nST statistical option. For example Three other counts are also stored as follows:
System Variable 15SV returns the day of the current year. There are four internal reloading System Timers, which
are read in the same way as channels. The four timers
4PT385(I,500,AV)(MX)(TMX)(MN)(TMN) (m -2)CV = number of readings under range (<x)
The default date format depends on the Country DIP
increment at different rates, and reset to zero when their Note that the first option list ( I,500,AV) must include the (m -1)CV = number of readings over range (>y)
switch (see the Appendix for your model). Set date format
range (maximum value) is reached, as follows options required for managing and sampling the channel. m CV = total number of readings including those
by Parameter P31, for example P31=0 sets date format
This rule applies to any options above the "Config Line" in out of range
as number of days since 1/1/1989 . Timer Rate Default Range
the Channel Options table on page 5, because the channel For example, to histogram a temperature channel over 5
The Date must be set in the current Date format, for 1ST 1 second 60 (1 minute) is sampled and scaled according to the first option list. classes requires 8 Channel Variables as follows
example if P31=1 (European format) then Date is set by 2ST 1 minute 60 (1 hour) Statistical results can be tested in alarms by first
D=25/12/2001 or D=25/12/01 3ST 1 hour 24 (1 day) assigning them to Channel Variables (see page 7). RA1S 1TT(H25.0:35.0:1..8CV)
4ST 1 day 7 (1 week) This generates a histogram with 5 temperature classes
Internal Channels The System Timers are synchronised to previous midnight Average (AV) with intervals of 2°C as follows:
There are several internal channels which are read in or Sunday, and increment at the beginning of each second, The average or mean is the sum of all the channel 1CV first class (25 to 27°C interval) counts
the same way as normal channels: minute, hour or day. The System Timers re-initialize to the readings divided by the number of readings. Averaging is 2CV second class (27 to 29°C interval) counts
Internal Channel Command
new time and date if the realtime clock is changed. For very useful for reducing sensor noise. 3CV third class (29 to 31°C interval) counts
example if the time and date are set to 13:45:53 and 4CV fourth class (31 to 33°C interval) counts
Logger temperature 1%LM35 25/12/01, the System Timers are set to 1ST=53, 2ST=45, 5CV fifth class (33 to 35°C interval) counts
CEM ( n) temperature n:1%LM35 3ST=13 and 4ST=2 (Tuesday).
Standard Deviation (SD) 6CV number of samples under range (< 25°C)
Electrical zero at multiplexer 2%V System Timer range and initial value can be changed The standard deviation is a measure of the variability of 7CV number of samples over range (>35°C)
Precision 100.0Ω ±0.1% 2%R the data about the average or mean. The variation may be 8CV total counts or sum of 1..7CV
Precision 4700Ω ±0.1% 3%R (DTxx5 models) nST(range, R)=initial due to electrical noise or process changes.
The Channel Variables are read and logged in a schedule
Battery voltage 0%V(M18:156,101) Timer range can be set between 1–65535. If a new range
Battery current 0%I(M18:220,-0.20) is set, the timer is initialised to a value calculated from the Maximum and Minimum RB1H 1..13CV(R)
previous midnight or Sunday. Timers can also be assigned Maximum and minimum is a measure of the range of The histogram channel option does not affect the usual
Text String an initial value or expression. If the initial value is greater
than the range, then the timer is set to zero at the next
the data. The time and date of the maximum and minimum reporting or logging of the channel's readings.
A Text channel of 80 characters is available for labelling, can also be useful. Display of maximum and minimum can Note: There is only 100 Channel Variables, and so the
increment. The R resets the timer to zero when it is read. be progressive (see "Switches - /X" on page 11). number of channels that can be histogrammed is limited.
data headings, site identification, logger identification, etc.
 Page 7
Scaling Data and Calculations ... getting sophisticated !
Introduction A defined span is applied to a channel as a Channel When a Channel Variable is included as a channel option Note: The trigonometric functions require arguments in
The data†aker provides many different methods for Option. For example for a statistically scanned channel, the statistical result is radians, where 1 radian = 57.296 degrees.
scaling and manipulating channel readings. Often a stored in the Channel Variable and not the individual The operator precedence is (), ^, ✽, /, %, +, –, <, <=, =,
combination of methods is the most effective. S17= 0,300,100,1000"KPa"
readings. For example the program >=, >, AND, OR, XOR and NOT. The underlined operators
1V(S17,"Boiler pressure")
RS5S RA10M 3V(AV,=1CV)(MX,=2CV)(MN,=3CV) have equal precedence. Expressions evaluate left to right,
Automatic Scaling returns
will store the 10 minute average, maximum and minimum into
however parentheses can be used to define a particular order
All channel types return data in engineering units – volts, Boiler pressure 239.12 KPa of evaluation. Parentheses can be nested.
Channel Variables 1CV, 2CV and 3CV respectively.
amps, ohms, hertz , °C (see "Channel Types" on page 4). As a rule it is best to define Spans (and Polynomials) in a The total number of expressions in a program is limited to
Most sensors output one of these basic signals. Channel variables can also be assigned the results of
program before the schedules and alarms are entered. 100, and collectively are limited to 3848 characters.
expressions (see "Calculations" below). For example
Expressions are evaluated at the report time of the
Channel Factor .. a floating point number
Polynomials - Yn
3CV=(1+COS(2CV))V1.141 embracing schedule, and in the order in which they occur
within the schedule.
Many channel types have a channel factor as a Channel evaluates the expression and assigns the result to 3CV.
Polynomials define non-linear calibrations for sensors
Option, which usually provides a linear scaling. For example 0
Using Channel Variables Conditional Calculations
1V 1V(101.0) y= ∑ kn x n = k 0 + k1 x + k2 x 2 + k3 x 3 + k4 x 4 + k5 x 5 Channel Variables are used in the same way as input Boolean logic within expressions can be used to return a
1V returns true millivolts, and 1V(101.0) returns the n =5
result which is dependent on a condition being true or false
reading multiplied by 101.0 in units of millivolts thus where x is the channel reading, and the k's are coefficient channels within schedules and alarms. Channel Options can
as follows:
terms. A polynomial is defined by its coefficient terms be used to modify the function and data format of Channel
1V 2.543 mV Variables. For example 2CV=(1CV ✽2✽(1CV<100))+(1CV ✽ 4✽(1CV>=100))
1V 256.84 mV Y n = k 0 , k1 , k2 ,k 3 , k4 ,k 5 " text "
5CV(FF2)=6CV+7CV which returns a value of 2✽1CV if 1CV is less than 100, or a
In this example the channel factor could for example be where n is the polynomial number between 1 and 20. A total value of 4✽1CV if 1CV is greater than or equal to 100.
the attenuation of an input voltage attenuator network. of 20 Spans and Polynomials can be defined. assigns to 5CV the sum of 6CV+7CV, and returns the result
Only the coefficient terms up to the required order need to as a floating point value to 2 decimal places.
Intrinsic Functions - F n be entered. Simple scale and offset corrections are also Channel Variables are not normally returned with units Combining Methods
possible (internally data†aker treats Spans as a first order text, however you can define units using polynomials: The different scaling and calculation methods can be
The data†aker has seven inbuilt mutually exclusive used together. Comprehensive examples are the best way to
polynomial). The text replaces the default units text for the Y20=0,1.0"KPa"
Intrinsic Functions, which are applied as a Channel Option. demonstrate. In the following program, a vector average is
channel. Polynomials are applied as a Channel Option 11CV(Y20)=SQRT(4CV/6CV)
The Intrinsic Functions available are calculated. The inputs are wind speed and direction:
Function Description Appended to Units
Y18= 25.5,0.345,0.0452"Deg C" Channel Variables can be used in alarms both as the test
'Wind speed calibration 0 – 50 m/s = 0 –1000mV
1V(Y18) value and as the setpoint(s). For example
F1 1/x inverse (Inv) S1 = 0,50,0,1000"m/s"
will return 'Wind direction 0 – 2π radians (0 – 360 deg) = 0 –1000mV
F2 √x square root (Sqrt) ALARM1(4CV< >2CV,3CV)"[5CV=20]"
F3 Ln(x) natural logarithm (Ln) 1V 44.35 Deg C S2 = 0,6.2832,0,1000"radians"
Channel Variables are useful when comparing an input
F4 Log(x) logarithm base ten (Log) The coefficient terms of a polynomial are evaluated by channel against several thresholds. For example Y3 = 0, 1"m/s" ' Units text for wind speed report
F5 Absolute(x) absolute value (Abs) least square regression. Various statistical programs are Y4 = 0, 1"Deg" ' Units text for wind direction report
F6 x ✱ x square (Squ) IF1(1V(=1CV)>0.5)"Over 0.5 Volts"
available for this purpose. Some nonlinear sensors are BEGIN
F7 Grey code conversion (8 bit) (Gc) IF2(1CV>0.6)"Over 0.6 Volts"
supplied with their calibration polynomial. RA5S ' Schedule to scan every 5 seconds
IF3(1CV>0.7)"Over 0.7 Volts"
Channels with an Intrinsic Function applied will return data A single Polynomial definition may be applied to any 1V( S1, = 1CV, W) ' Sample wind speed
number of channels in any schedules or alarms. where channel 1V is sampled once (rather than risking 2V( S2, = 2CV,W) ' Sample wind direction
with labels in the right-hand column appended to units. For
different values) and tested against a number of setpoints. 3CV( W ) = 3CV + 1CV ✽ COS( 2CV ) ' Sum x comp‘s
example 1V(F2) will return the square root of the reading
1V 455.6 mV (Sqrt) Channel Variables - n CV Where statistical results are to be tested, then Channel
Variables provide the only means of using statistical results in
4CV( W ) = 4CV + 1CV ✽ SIN( 2CV ) ' Sum y comp‘s
5CV( W ) = 5CV+1.0 ' Number of scans
Channel Variables are floating point data registers. The
If you place more than one Intrinsic Function in a channel's alarms. For example the program
data†aker has 100 Channel Variables, identified as 1CV RB1M 'Calculate, report and log every minute
option list, only the last will be applied. to 100CV, which can store channel readings and the results RZ1M RS1S RA1M 3TT(SD,=1CV,W) 'calculate mean magnitude
of expressions. Channel Variables can be used within ALARM1(1CV>0.1)"Excess variability" 6CV(W) = SQRT(( 3CV ✽ 3CV ) + ( 4CV ✽ 4CV )) / 5CV
Spans - Sn expressions (see "Calculations" below), and can be included tests standard deviation of temperatures read over a minute. 6CV("Mean Wind Mag.",Y3,FF1)
Spans are used to define linear calibrations for sensors. in schedules to return, store and display their current values. When input channels or Channel Variables are used in 'calculate direction
Spans are particularly suited to 4–20mA loop inputs. Channel Variables are assigned the current value of any intermediate steps of a program, the W Channel Option can 7CV(W) = ATAN ( 4CV / 3CV ) ✽ 57.29
Physical Output input channel by including the Channel Variable in the declare these as working channels and prevent data being 'determine direction quadrant
e.g. °C Channel Option list. For example returned, logged or displayed. When debugging programs the 7CV(W) = 7CV + (( 3CV > 0 ) AND (4CV < 0 )) ✽ 360
Calibration
1V(=2CV) W option can be over-ridden by the /W switch (see "Switches 7CV(W) = 7CV + (( 3CV < 0 ) AND (4CV < 0 )) ✽ 180
Upper physical b - /W" on page 11) to return and display intermediate data. 7CV(W) = 7CV + (( 3CV < 0 ) AND ( 4CV > 0)) ✽ 180
returns the voltage for channel 1 AND stores (overwrites) the
Lower physical a Signal 'if wind speed is zero, return -1.0
value into the Channel Variable 2CV.
c d
Input You can also use one of four basic arithmetic operations Calculations ... only at report time 7CV(W) = 7CV – ( 6CV < = 0 ) ✽ ( 7CV + 1 )
e.g. mA (+=, –=, ✶= and /=) when storing input channel data into The data†aker has a powerful expression evaluation 7CV("Mean Wind Dir.",Y4,FF0)
Lower signal Upper signal
channel variables. For example capability. Results are assigned to Channel Variables, output 1..5CV(W) = 0
A total of 20 Spans and Polynomials can be defined. channels, System Timers and System Variables. END
A span is defined by the command 5V(+=1CV) - scans channel 5V Expressions can ONLY contain Channel Variables and LOGON G
- sets 1CV=1CV+5V
Sn=a,b,c,d "text " constants. Data from input channels must first be assigned to The following program scans ten channels and calculates
- reports the value of 5V Channel Variables to be used in expressions. a cross channel average
where n = 1 to 20, and text is units text (replaces the original 5V(S1,/=1CV) - scans channel 5V Expressions can contain the following operators
channel units text). The physical (a, b) and signal (c, d ) limits - applies span 1 ( S1) BEGIN
define any two points on the calibration line, not necessarily - sets 1CV=1CV/5V(S1) Arithmetic +, –, ✶, /, % (modulus) and ^ (exponent) RA10S
the end points. Note: c and d default to 0 and 100 if not - reports the value of 5V(S1) Relational <, <=, =, >=, > (result 1 is true, 0 is false) 1CV(W) = 0 ' clear 1CV
specified, which is useful for 4-20mA current loop channels. Logical AND, OR, XOR, NOT (>0 is true, result 0 or 1) 1..10V(+ = 1CV, W) ' sum 10 voltages into 1CV
The assignments are made at the report time of the
A single Span definition may be applied to any number of Functions ABS(), LOG(), LN(), SIN(), COS(), TAN(), 1CV = 1CV / 10 ' divide by 10 for average
schedule. Channel Variable assignments are not made at the
channels in any schedules or alarms. ASIN(), ACOS(), ATAN(), SQRT(), Y n (), Sn () END
Statistical Sub-schedule scan time. Other Parentheses ()
 Page 8
Data Logging and Retrieval ... go for quality not quantity Memory Cards and Programs ...added convenience
Introduction Unloading Data Introduction When the commands are copied into the program area of
The data†aker stores data in the internal memory Logged data is unloaded from internal or card memory by The data†akers support PC Card memory cards the memory card, these are appended to the current
(166,530 data points) and in a memory card (almost 1.4 U source schedule ( start point )(end point) which conform to the PCMCIA Type II standard. PC Card contents of the program area. If there was a previously
million data points in a 4Mbyte card) if one is inserted. memory cards of up to 4Mbyte in capacity can be used. stored program on the memory card, then the new program
The management for the internal memory and memory source I - from internal memory The memory cards increase the storage capacity of the is appended to the old program. The old program must first
card varies according to the state of the inserted card M - from memory card data†aker , and because the cards are removable they be cleared by a CPROG command if not required.
• if insert an empty memory card, data in internal memory none - unload from memory card, then if are also reliable media for transporting data and programs. The STATUS command returns the used and available
is transferred to the card, and logging continues to the card same data set, from internal memory Do not expose the memory card to temperatures over space in the program area of the memory card, and
• if insert a memory card containing data from the same schedule A, B, C, D, or X - unload single schedule 45°C for extended periods, to ionising radiation or to static STATUS8 also shows the full program listing.
program, then data in the internal memory is appended to none - unloads all schedules logged discharge. Memory cards with a lithium battery should have The syntax of the card program is not checked until the
the card, and logging continues to the memory card ( start point ) (time,date) or (time) it replaced every year. Memory cards with a rechargeable program is first run. Check the program by executing the
BEGIN - from beginning of stored data battery should be placed in a powered logger for >24 hours RUNPROG command while the card is inserted, or by
• if insert a memory card containing data from another
LAST - from end of last unload every 6 months. removing and re-inserting the card. Inserting a card causes
program, then data is not transferred from internal memory,
none - from beginning of stored data immediate program execution (if /Q is set to the default –
and logging continues to internal memory. A CDATA
command will clear the card, then data will be transferred. ( end point ) (time,date) or (time) Card Specific Commands see below).
END - to end of stored data There are seven commands specifically for managing
Lithium Battery - Replacement LAST - to end of last unload
none - to end of stored data
memory card operation When is a Card Program Run ?
The √ AA lithium battery maintains the internal memory CDATA clears card data When you insert a memory card into the data†aker,
and real time clock when data†aker is not powered. This All are optional, however an (end point ) can only be CPROG clears program space on a card any program on the card is normally loaded into the logger,
battery must be replaced every 2 years. The lithium battery included if a (start point ) is included. Some examples COPY transfer internal data to the card compiled and run immediately. Datatakers with a display
is located on the lower printed circuit board, and the logger U unload all data, oldest first NOCOPY disables transfer of data to the card will show the message Prog. You can stop automatic
must be disassembled to replace the battery. U(LAST) unload data since last unload CARDID="text " assigns a card ID loading of card programs by setting the /Q switch to /q.
UA(BEGIN)(LAST) unload schedule A from beginning CARDID returns the card ID The program on an inserted memory card can also be
loaded and run by the RUNPROG command. This executes
Data Logging Commands to last data previously unloaded
UMB(12:00,19/1/02)(12:00,20/1/02)
RUNPROG forces running of card program
CTEST Destructive memory test of card a card program immediately, irrespective of the setting of
Data logging is globally enabled by LOGON and
unload B schedule from memory the /Q switch. Only the /F switch will prevent the execution
disabled by LOGOFF. By default data logging is disabled.
of the RUNPROG command (see "Switches" on page 11).
Data is logged as 24 bit (16 bit mantissa) floating point card between the times and dates Card Identification
values. Internal calculations are 32 bit floating point. The oldest data is unloaded first, and schedules are merged You can name a memory card with the command
Schedules store a three byte header with the data for chronologically in order X, A, B, C then D. Unloaded data
CARDID="label text "
Transferring Data to the Card
each scan, which contains scan identification, scan time and format is the same as real-time data (see page 5). During Normally data in the internal memory is transferred to
scan date. When logged data is unloaded, this header and unloads the /r (return), /e (echo), /m (error messages) The label text can be up to 40 characters, of which the the memory card after any card program is executed. The
the original schedule are used to interpret the data. and /z (alarm messages) switches are disabled, and first 16 are displayed on the lower line of the display when transfer can take up to 100mS.
Schedules cannot be replaced when data has been returned to their previous state after the unload. Data is not you insert the memory card. It is also returned in response data†akers with a display will show the message
logged, until data is cleared by CLEAR or CDATA. cleared from memory by Unload operations. to the command CARDID. Append, depending on whether the data is appended to
existing compatible data, and shows the message Xfer
Stop When Full Mode - /o Quitting an Unload Card Formatting when the transfer occurs.
Data logging stops when memory is full – oldest data is An Unload operation is aborted by the Q quit command. New Cards are automatically formatted when inserted in If the card already holds data from a different program,
retained and new data is lost. If a memory card is used, the logger, and given the default CARDID="xxxKB" then no transfer occurs and data†akers with a display
data is not logged in internal memory until memory card is where xxx is the size of the memory card. will show the message Can't Copy Data.
full. This is the default mode for data storage. Time and Date Stamping When a single memory card is to be used to recover
Scan Time and Date stamps can be prefixed to unload data, and to reprogram the logger, you must transfer the
Overwrite Mode - /O records by enabling /T and /D switches, even after data has Card Processing Flow Chart logged data before reprogramming. This is done by using
been logged. Time and Date stamp defaults OFF ( /t /d). When a memory card is inserted into the data†aker the COPY command in the program to force data transfer
Oldest data is overwritten with newest data when the
the subsequent processing and actions depends on the before the logger is reprogrammed
memory is full. This mode is invoked by the /O switch (see
status of the memory card and the status of the logger.
"Switches - /O" on page 11). The internal memory is not Logging Status The tests performed on the memory card by the logger, ;COPY
used in overwrite mode when a memory card is used. Internal and card memory status can be checked by ;LOGOFF CLEAR CSCANS
and the actions taken as a result the tests, is detailed in
STATUS lines 5, 6 and 7 (or STATUS5 STATUS6 etc.) Appendix - "Memory Card Processing Flow Chart". ;RA10M 1..5V LOGON
Storage Capacity 1SV Internal data points free Automatic data transfer from the internal memory to card
Data storage capacity is difficult to calculate because of
the 3 byte header per schedule per scan. If you consider
2SV
3SV
Internal data points stored
Memory Card data points free
Programming from Cards can be prevented by placing a ;NOCOPY command on the
first line of the card program. The NOCOPY action is
the header as a data reading, the following provides a guide A memory card can store a data†aker program of up
4SV Memory Card data points stored
to 4090 characters. Commands are entered into the logger automatically cleared when the card is removed.
Memory Capacity (readings) Total (card+internal)
in the normal way, except that each line must begin with a
Internal 166,530 166,530 Clearing Stored Data semi-colon. The logger copies lines prefixed by a semi- Clearing the Memory Card
1M PC Card 343,980 510,510 Logged data can be cleared at any time by colon into the program area of a memory card. For example The data storage and program areas on a memory card
2M PC Card 693,420 859,950 can be separately erased as follows:
CLEAR clears all data logged in the internal memory ;CSCANS CALARMS
4M PC Card 1,392,300 1,558,830
and disables logging (LOGOFF) ;/m /n /u P22=44 P24=13 CDATA clears all data
Time and Date in a channel list are logged same as any CLAST clears data in internal memory or memory card ;ALARM1(1V>55.0)4DSO CPROG clears the card program
other channels, i.e. 3 bytes each. It is more efficient to use card that has been unloaded by U command ;ALARM2(5TJ>107.0)"Temp Alarm" CTEST clears and tests entire card
the /T and /D switch commands - see pages 6 and 11. (only if all schedules were unloaded). ;RA5M 1V 5TJ 2HSC
CDATA clears all data logged in memory card ;LOGON CDATA and CPROG commands can be executed from a
Not Logging Channels RESET clears internal memory (and program) Note: If a program in a write protected PC Card
card program. CPROG must be the last command
(otherwise commands after it will be cleared from the card
All channels and channel variables in RA, RB, RC, RD but not memory card data (or program)
memory card includes a RESET command, then the before execution).
and RX schedules are logged after the LOGON command is The CLEAR command may appear to fail if logging is Datataker will suspend operation until the card is removed, Removing the memory card's battery for more than two
issued. The NL (No Log) and W (Working) Channel Options enabled, because new data is logged soon after the clear. or the write protect switch is moved to the disabled position. minutes also clears the card.
prevent logging of individual channels. The solution is to first stop the logging with LOGOFF or H.
 Page 9
Alarms ... limits and tests

Introduction
The data†aker Alarm command will make decisions This Example : Alarm number 5 is defined
about input channels, timers, clock, variables, etc. Digital ALARM5(4#L(S3)<>110.0,150.0/10S)1DSO,4DSO"Boiler Temp ?[RA2S]" (or replaces any previous definition). A current
outputs can be set, messages issued, or commands executed loop on single ended channel 4 ( 4#L) scaled by
if an Alarm is true. There are two types of Alarm command a span (S3) is monitoring a boiler temperature. If
the temperature drops below 110.0 or rises to or
- ALARM or IF - acts once on transition from false to true
above 150.0, for more than 10 seconds ( /10S),
- ALARMR and IFR - acts repeatedly while alarms tests true
digital outputs 1 and 4 (1DSO,4DSO) are set

The Number of Alarms Alarm Number Delay Period (optional) ON, the message "Boiler Temp 152.0 " is
sent to the host and to the display (if present),
The Alarm Number identifies the alarm. If you When the Alarm's conditional test changes state (i.e. false
Alarms share an internal scan table of up to 110 entries to true or true to false) no action is taken until the delay period and schedule " RA" is re-programmed to scan at
enter two alarms with the same number the second
with the data acquisition schedules. The scan table must be overwrites the first. has expired AND the state has not changed during this two second intervals ([RA2S]).
partitioned before any schedules or alarms are defined, with period. The format is
The Alarm Number must not be greater than the
the P30 command. For example P30=40 will allow the entry
P30 value (see Number of Alarms). The Alarm /nS Seconds
of 40 alarms, and 110 – 40 = 70 data acquisition channels.
P30 defaults to 20 alarms.
Number is also used to poll for current alarm data
values with the ?n command (see Polling Alarm
/ nM Minutes Action Commands (optional)
/nH Hours The Action Text can include one or more data†aker
Data), and in the HZn, GZn and CALARMn /nD Days commands enclosed by square brackets. These are Action
The Scanning of Alarms commands.
where n is an integer in the range 1 to 255. Commands, and are executed once when an ALARM or IF
By default the data†aker scans alarms as fast as alarm transits from false to true, or repeatedly at the RZ rate
When the state changes during the delay period the delay
possible. The actual rate depends on the number of Alarms
and data channels defined. As a rule, allow 40mS for each
Channel Definition counter is reset and will not count again until the next state
while an ALARMR or IFR alarm remains true.
Any input channel type with options (see Action commands are a very powerful programming
analog input and 10mS for each Channel Variable, time and change. The result is a filtering action that ensures that input
"Channel Types" on page 4), or Channel Variable, facility for the data†aker . You can use any data†aker
digital input. noise will not cause unwanted or rapid output actions.
or System Timer, Time, Date, System Variable, etc. command in this context, so many things become possible
The Alarms schedule is triggered in the same way as
can be the input to Alarm commands. • re-programming on events
schedules for data acquisition (see"Schedules" on page 3) Conditional True
False • adaptive schedules
RZ rapidly as possible (default) Test
Timing • programmed calibration cycles
RZnS
RZn M
seconds
minutes
Conditional Test Delay timing Reset • control of digital outputs
where n is an integer The input channel or Channel Variable is compared with
hours Full Delay Adaptive scheduling is a common use for managing the
RZn H in range 1 to 65535 one or two (comma separated) set points. The set points can
Alarm action True
Periods data†aker from the Alarm command. In the example
RZn D days False
be a floating point constant or a Channel Variable. The
RZn E event on either transition number of set points depends on the logical operator: time RA15M 1V(AV,"Wind speed",S1,=1CV)
where n is IF1(1CV>5.0)"[RA2M]"
RZn +E event on positive transition Action Text and
a digital IF2(1CV<4.5)"[RA15M]"
RZn -E event on negative transition Operator Set Points Operation Commands issued
channel
RZn C(count ) counter event after count the average wind speed is recorded every 15 minutes and
number < 1 less than set-point
RZn HSC event on any HSC counts Note that the output channels (if any) reflect the state of the assigned to a variable (1CV). If the average exceeds 5.0 m/s,
> 1 greater than or equal to set-point
HZ, GZ Halt and Go for all Alarm scanning Alarm Action line in the above diagram. This line changes the schedule's report interval is reduced to 2 minutes by the
<> 2 less than first set-point, OR greater
HZn , GZn Disable and enable Alarm number n state only after the full delay period has expired. first alarm ( IF1) command. When the 2 minute average
than or equal to second set-point
drops below 4.5m/s the report interval is returned to 15
Note: an Alarm disabled by an HZn command will not be >< 2 greater than or equal to first set-point
enabled by the global GZ command. Only the GZn command AND less than second set-point Action Text (optional) minutes by the second alarm command (IF2). Note the
deliberate 0.5 hysteresis to prevent an "oscillation" around
will re-enable individually disabled alarms, and then only if Text placed in quotes is sent to the computer and display
the switch over point. Adaptive scheduling can reduce total
alarm scanning is enabled (GZ). whenever an ALARMn or an IFn alarm transits from false to
The following example shows use of a conditional test true, or repeatedly at the RZ rate while an ALARMR or IFR data volume, and give greater time resolution when required.
Instead of changing the report interval as in the above
The Listing of Alarms ALARM3(2V>660.0)4DSO alarm remains true, and any delay period has expired. The
action text may be up to 200 characters, however the total example, data logging could have been enabled or other
The STATUS3 command (see page 10) returns a list of When the voltage on channel 2 equals or exceeds 660.0mV, schedules modified. The possibilities are endless!
text space reserved for all Alarms is 4000 characters.
all defined alarms. The keyword is in upper case (ALARM) for the digital output channel 4 is turned ON. When the voltage
Note: There is no garbage collection in this text space.
enabled alarms and in lower case (alarm) for disabled alarms.
Channels in the alarm list do not show their channel options.
drops below 660.0mV the output is turned OFF.
Each new action text is appended to the list, and superseded Combining Alarms
text is only removed by a RESET or CALARMS command. Alarms can be logically combined to yield a single result
Control characters can be embedded in the Action Text
Erasing Alarms Output Channels (optional)
such as ^G (bell), ^M (CR), ^L (LF), ^b (quotes), etc.
by replacing the action text / action commands of all except
the last Alarm in the group with a logical operator for example
One or two (comma separated) output channels (see
Erase all Alarms with the CALARMS command, and Various data can be placed into the Action Text by
erase individual alarms with the CALARMn command, where "Channel Types" on page 4) can be declared for each Alarm
including special substitution characters
IF1(3TK>100)OR
n is the Alarm number. to reflect the alarm condition. These outputs are set on IF2(2TK>100)OR
transitions of the Alarm condition and after all Alarms have ! insert data†aker address and alarm number (a :n ) IF3(5TK>100)AND
been scanned. Only two output channel types are permitted ? insert current data value ALARM4(1DS>0/10S)"Temp Error[RA5S]"
Polling Alarm Data # insert day or date (in P31 format)
where the message is output 10 seconds after digital input 1
Return the most recent data from an Alarm input channel n DSO General purpose digital output @ insert time (in P39 and P40 format)
n WARN LEDs (1..3), Beeper (4) etc. (see page 12) is high and any one of the three temperatures exceeds and
by the Alarm query command The Action Text "Boiler Pressure = ? MPa" will stays above 100 degrees. Note the substitution of the
?n returns data for Alarm number n If multiple alarms use the same output channel, then the return: keyword IF to improve readability of the program. Only the
?ALL returns data for all Alarms effects are OR'ed. Any active alarm will set the output to ON, Boiler Pressure = 1.563 MPa delay period, output channels and action text of the last
The data format is the same as for channel data, except but all alarms must be false to reset the shared output OFF. Alarm are performed.
on each false to true transition of the Alarm. No Action Text is
that channel number is replaced by the Alarm Number. For The output channel can be cleared at any time by digital Available logical operators are AND, OR and XOR. You
issued on the true to false transition.
example ?5 will return: assignment (e.g. 1DSO=0). Unlike Action Commands (see must order the Alarm numbers from low to high, as evaluation
Setting the /Z switch to /z will stop the return of the Action
right), the Output Channels are set or cleared on both the is sequentially from low to high. Missing Alarm numbers are
A5 123.4 Deg C. positive and negative transitions of the Alarm condition. Text to the computer (see "Switches - /Z" on page 11). This is allowed provided you do not define them elsewhere.
useful when the Action Text is only required for the display.
 Page 10
Output Format ... how your data is presented More Commands ... getting system information
Introduction TEST STATUS2 returns the scan schedules:
The data†aker has many ways to format data returned to the The TEST command forces a calibration, and checks the functionality of the hardware. A, none Scan Schedules Active,Halted
computer and display. Data format is controlled globally by the The TESTR command will force continuous calibrations. The information returned to the host RA15M 1TT("Room Temp")
following Parameters and Switches (see also page 11) computer is: If a memory card containing data is present, then the schedules returned are
Returned Data n Description Valid Range appropriate to the card's data. The X schedule is not given an active or halted state.
/H fixed format mode - defaults off (see Advanced Comms Manual)
/U include units text appended to the data - defaults on Note: For this status report the schedules are simply stored as text in a buffer of 512
Datataker 52 Ver 7.xx 0 configuration & firmware version —
bytes. If your program exceeds 512 characters, the remaining program text is not
/N include channel number and type (ID) before data - defaults on Vos (mV) 0.009 1 input offset voltage ±1 mV
/L include logger number before scan data - defaults off returned and is replaced by three periods ("...").
Vfo (V) 7.308 2 input voltage for VCO = 0Hz 6.0 to 8.50V
/C include channel type (/C) or number only ( /c) - defaults on Fc (kHz) 18.200 3 VCO centre frequency 11.46 to 23.87kHz
/D include scan date at beginning of returned data - defaults off CMRR(db) 99.6 4 common mode rejection ratio >90db
STATUS3 returns alarms (without channel options). The keyword "alarm" is in
/T include scan time at beginning of returned data - defaults off lower case if the alarm is halted (by the HZn command - see page 9):
Vos3(mV) 0.238 5 three wire input offset voltage -1.9 to 3.1mV
P22 data delimiter in /u mode (default 32, a Space ) Tos 1.0023 6 terminator attenuation 0.99 to 1.01 2,1 Alarms Active,Halted
P24 scan delimiter in /u mode (default 13, a Carriage Return) Ios (nA) -3 7 input bias current offset ±30nA RZ5S
Note: A Line Feed character (ASCII 10) is always added Ibia(nA) 15 ±90nA ALARM1(3V>105)1DS0
8 input bias current
to a Carriage Return (ASCII 13) Ibat(mA) 0.5 -500 to +600mA ALARMR2(4V<75)2DSO"[1DSO=0]"
9 battery current (– for discharge)
P31 date format - see "Date" on page 6 Vbat (V) 6.6 10 battery voltage 5.4 to 13.0V alarmr3(5TT<72.0)3DS
P32 maximum number of significant digits - 0 to 9, default is 5 Vos*(uV) -95 11 ✶ single ended offset voltage –600 to +110µV
P33 defines a fixed field width for output data - default 0, variable Vos+(uV) 33 12 + single ended offset voltage ±180µV STATUS4 returns defined polynomials and spans:
P38 decimal point locator character for floating point numbers Vos-(uV) 10 13 – single ended offset voltage ±180µV
- default is ASCII 46, a period "." 2 Polynomials/Spans Defined
Vos#(uV) 66 14 # single ended offset voltage –110µV to 600µV
P39 time format - see "Time" on page 6 Y1=3.54,1.009"Deg C"
Vosd(uV) 5 15 differential offset voltage ±180µV
S7=0.0,100,0.0,1.0"KPa"
P40 time separator character - default is 58, a colon " : ") Ics1(mA) 2.4994 16 current source 1 current 0.5mA to 10mA
The default data format is verbose and descriptive, for example: Ics2(uA) 250.31 17 current source 2 current 1µA to 500µA
PASS test pass or fail –
STATUS5 STATUS6 STATUS7 returns the data logging status,
RA5S 1V 3PT385 1C("Widgets") /T /D and the data stored and free in the internal memory and card memory respectively.
returns Test data that is out of range is flagged with a "fail" message. Use the /u switch to make
Date 25/12/01 test results less verbose. TESTn returns line n of the test results and TESTnR produces STATUS8 returns the memory card program:
Time 12:45:00 continuous test cycles of line n . Continuous reporting is stopped by the next carriage return.
1V 2.490 Volts 4015,75 Program Characters Free/Stored
3PT385 395.0 Deg C ;Y1=0.0382,14.4"kPa"
Widgets 3498 Counts
RESET ;RA15S T 1V(Y1,=1CV)
The RESET command clears the data†aker of all data and programs. Use it carefully, ;ALARM1(1CV>150)2DSO"Boiler"
where the Switches default to /U/N/C. Parameters P22 and P24 are or risk losing valuable data. The RESET command also initiates a calibration, and a sign-on
not used as delimiters while units text is enabled (/U). However the
data format can be condensed the to a form more useful for computers
message is returned to the computer STATUS9 returns the Datataker's current switch settings
Datataker 0 Version 7.xx /a/C/d/E/f/h/J/K/l/M/N/o/Q/R/S/t/U/v/w/x/y/Z
4741, 12.7500, 2.490, 395.0, 3498 Initializing ... Done
where the Switches are set to /u/n and the Parameters are set to
P22=44 (a comma), P24=13 (a return), P31=0 (day number) and
The RESET command does not clear the data†aker clock, or clear data or program STATUS10 returns further information about the current program in the logger
from a memory card.
P39=2 (decimal hours). Do not send any other commands to the data†aker for five seconds after you have 27113,1989,1,0,"",<A,"2S",H,<"Dry bulb","",0,0,5,4,3>,
Data format control is global and is applied to real-time data, <"Wet bulb","",0,0,5,4,3>,<"Humidity","%RH",0,0,5,4,
entered the RESET command. Use \Wn in DeTransfer to force a pause after RESET in a
unloaded data and the data returned by the TEST and STATUS 3>>,<B>,<C>,<D>,<X>
command file, for example
commands. Note: All data is kept internally as 3 byte data, and is This report is a list of comma separated items providing details about the
formatted when returned. Data format can be changed between RESET
\W5 data†aker program. In order, they are Program ID, Base year, Time resolution,
successive memory Unloads. Card status, Current $ string, followed by Schedule fields that identify individual
CDATA
channels, their format and their units. If there is no program the following is returned:
Data Numeric Format STATUS 0,0,0,0,"",<A>,<B>,<C>,<D>,<X>
The numeric format of data is set for channels by channel options:
The STATUS command returns the status of the data†aker 's schedules, channels, Refer to the "Advanced Communications Manual" for detailed description.
FFn Fixed point, n = number of decimal places (n = 0 - 7) alarms, memory and logging to the computer. Typical returned information
FEn Exponential, n = number of significant digits (n = 0 - 7) n STATUS11 returns information about the program on an inserted memory card.
FMn Mixed FF or FE formats. Uses FE format if exponent Datataker 0 Version 7.xx 1 The format is the same as for STATUS10. Refer to the "Advanced
is less than –4 or greater than n. ( n = 0 - 7) A,none Scan Schedules Active,Halted 2 Communications Manual" for a detailed description.
Examples of the numeric format channel options for returned data: 0,0 Alarms Active,Halted 3
Default FF1 FE3 FM1 FM2 0 Polynomials/Spans Defined 4 STATUS12 returns the time and date of the first and last data points stored in
Logging is OFF 5 the Datataker's internal memory
23.456 23.5 2.346e1 23.5 23.46 166530,0 Internal Data Points Free,Stored 6
–0.025 –0.0 –2.542e–2 –0.0 –0.03 343980,0 Card Data Points Free,Stored 7 00:11:33 on 05/03/2002,00:13:00 on 19/03/2001 Internal
1034.6 1034.6 1.035e3 1e3 1034.64 4090,0 Program Characters Free,Stored 8 data Start,End times
Note that the default format depends on the channel type returning the /A/C/d/E/f/h/J/K/l/M/N/o/Q/r/S/t/U/v/w/x/y/Z 9
data. See the "Channel Types" table on page 4, especially the STATUS13 returns the time and date of the first and last data points stored in
resolution column. Formatting options are not applied to the 99999.9 The first line shows the data†aker 's address (see "Networking" on page 14) and an inserted memory card:
error data code (see "Error Messages" on page 21). Firmware version. The line of switches indicates the current switch settings (see 00:11:33 on 05/03/2002,00:13:00 on 19/03/2002 External
Parameter P33 allows returned data to be in fixed fields. All data is "Switches" on page 11). Use the /u switch to make STATUS results less verbose. data Start,End times
placed into fields of the same width defined by P33, space padded to The remaining lines are described below. Each STATUS line can be returned individually
the left. If the field width is not sufficient, least significant characters are STATUSn These and other STATUSn commands are described fully in the "Advanced
truncated from the right. Fixed fields are useful when returned data is Communications Manual".
where n is the line number. STATUS2, 3, 4 and 8 return extra information. There are also
to be tabulated, or forwarded to software with a simple string parser.
other status levels that are not returned by the general STATUS command.
 Page 11
Parameters ... internal settings

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Parameters are internal system P0 Calibration interval µV 4µV 0 to 10,000 Input zero drift allowed before re-calibration (see "Accuracy" on page 17).
settings. They are global in their effect, P1 2.500 volt reference trim 10µV 0µV -30,000 to 30,000 Software trim of 2.5000 volt reference for calibration (see "Accuracy" on page 17).
and let you set a variety of options. As a P2 Temperature trim 0.001°C 0°C -30,000 to 30,000 Trims internal LM35 temperature sensor. For thermocouple reference junction temperature calibration (see page 16).
general rule, set the parameters that P3 Reference resistor trim mΩ 0mΩ -30,000 to 30,000 Trims the internal 100.0Ω ±0.1% reference resistor (see "Accuracy" on page 17).
require changing before you program P4 Lost count flag count 0 read only If this is greater than zero, then counts may have been missed by the low speed counters.
schedules and alarms. P7 Network turnaround time # 14mS 1 1 to 30,000 Set as number of 14mS intervals. Useful for use with radio modem network. Typically would set P7=22 corresponding to 300mS
P9 Remote network error # errors 0 0 to 30,000 Network errors have occurred if P9>0.
Setting Parameters P10 ADC settling period mS 10mS 0 to 30,000 Time between channel selection and beginning of ADC (see also 7SV on page 6 and "ADC Details" on page 18).
Parameters can be set at any time, P11 Mains frequency Hz 50/60Hz 48 to 1000 Sets ADC sample duration to 1/Hz seconds. Default value read from the country DIP switch (see 8SV on page 6).
and new settings generally take effect P12 Transmit errors # errors 0 0 to 30,000 Transmission errors in protocol mode (see the "Datataker Advanced Communications Manual").
immediately. For example P13 Digital input sample period mS 50mS 0, 10 to 100 Sample interval on digital inputs (and display keys), determines minimum detectable pulse width. P13=0 disables digital input.
P14 Password timeout seconds 300S 1 to 30,000 If a password is defined, data†aker will automatically SIGNOFF after this period of inactivity (see "COMS Port", page 13).
P22=44 set Parameter 22 to 44 P15 Low power operation mode 0 0 to 2 0 = auto, 1 = force low power, 2 = force normal power mode (see"Setting the Power Mode" page 15).
Note that in fixed data format mode P16 ADC warm up time 125mS 1 (125mS) 1 to 255 Minimum time from wake-up to first ADC in 125's of milliseconds, useful for sensors with a long power-up settling time.
(see below) three parameters are forced P17 Delay to low power mode seconds 30S 1 to 255 Delay to low power mode from last communications, external wake, or keypad input (see "Setting Power Modes" page 15).
P18 Auto scroll time seconds 2S 1 to 255 Time in seconds to display each screen when Display is in scroll mode (see "Scroll Keys" on page 12).
P22=44, P24=13 and P38=46. The
original values for these are restored on P19 Status screens to display bit map 255 0 to 255 Bit map of status screens to display on Display (see "Status Screens" on page 12).
leaving the fixed format mode. P20 Wake schedules bit map 0 0 to 255 Bit mask of schedules that are not to wake the logger – D C B A S X Z (see "Low Power Operation" on page 15).
P21 Return data to address address 128 0 to 128 Logger address to which returned data is to be sent. P21=address . P21 defaults to 128 which means normal addressing.
Reading Parameters P22
P23
Data delimiter character
Calibration samples
ASCII
count
32 (space)
3
1 to 127
1 to 10
ASCII character (as decimal number) between data points in /u mode (see "Output Format" on page 10). Forced to 44 by /H.
Determines calibration "noise", a compromise between calibration speed & accuracy.
Entering the command
P24 Scan delimiter ASCII 13 (CR,LF) 1 to 127 ASCII character (as decimal number) between groups of data points in a scan in /u mode (see "Output Format" on page 10).
P22 P25 Unload completed character ASCII 0 (none) 0 to 127 ASCII character (as decimal number) that is placed at the end of an Unload dump in /u mode (see "Output Format" on page 10).
will return the setting of parameter 22. P26 XOFF timeout before XON seconds 30 1 to 254 Timeout before XOFF is automatically switched to XON. P26=0 disables timeout, and P26=255 ignores received XOFFs.
Parameters are not the same as P27 Define input to counter 1HSC mode 0 0 to 3 0 = external input, 1 = internal 32768Hz, 2 = external input gated, 3 = internal 1024Hz. See "High Speed Counters" on page 18.
channels or variables. If you include a P30 Number of alarms permitted count 20 0 to 110 Number of alarms that can be entered. Must be set before any schedules or alarms are entered (see "Introduction" on page 9).
parameter in a schedule, it does not P31 Date format mode 1 or 2 0 to 2 0 = day number, 1 = dd/mm/yy (European), 2 = mm/dd/yy (N American) (see "Date" on page 6 for default value).
become part of the schedule. Instead it P32 Number of significant digits # digits 5 1 to 9 Sets significant digits of output data. Note: logged data is always stored to 5 digits, so P32>5 is only useful for realtime data.
is processed immediately. P33 Field width # characters 0 (variable) 0 to 200 If P33>0 this defines fixed field width for all output data (right justified, space padded or least significant digits truncated).
You can set or read parameters from P36 Temperature units mode 0 (°C) 0 to 3 0 = °C, 1 = °F, 2 = °K, 3 = °R. Data is converted before being placed into store and cannot be converted at Unload time.
the host computer, from a memory card P38 Decimal point character ASCII 46 (.) 0 to 127 The character used as a decimal point in floating point numbers (see "Output Format" on page 10).
program or from Alarm Actions. P39 Time format mode 0 (hh:mm:ss) 0 to 2 0 = hh:mm:ss, 1 = seconds, 2 = decimal hours (hh.hhhh) (see "Time" on page 6).
P40 Time separator ASCII 58 (:) 1 to 127 ASCII character (as decimal number) separator character for hh:mm:ss time format (see "Time" on page 6).

Switches .... UPPER CASE "ON", lower case "off"

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case. Switches are internal system settings, and /A /a Display alarms /a Enable the display of displayable alarms (see "Displaying Alarms" on page 12)
generally global in effect. Switch commands can /C /c Channel identification /C Channel type is included with channel number with returned data e.g. 5PT392 instead of 5 (see "Output Formats" on page 10).
be issued at any time, and most take effect /D /d Prefix date to data /d Prefix date to logged data – equivalent to a D at beginning of a schedules channel list.
immediately. Delay in effect may occur if data is /E /e Echo /E Enables echo of commands to host. Useful in terminal mode communications with the data†aker.
buffered in the data†aker or in the host /F /f Fix schedules /f Prevents a logger's scan schedules (trigger or channel list) being modified (see "Schedules" on page 3). A RESET will still erase schedules.
computer. /H /h Formatted mode /h Fixed format mode of data output. Switches and Parameters are saved by /H and restored by /h. See the "Advanced Communications Manual".
/J /j Over range error carry /J Errors are carried through expressions so that expression will return 99999.9. If disabled, 99999.9 is substituted for reading in the expression.
Viewing Switch Settings /K /k Calibration /K Enables auto-calibration. Issuing a /K forces an immediate calibration. data†aker always calibrates during a RESET.
The STATUS9 command returns the current /L /l Logger number prefix /l Prefixes the logger number to a schedule's returned data e.g. dataTaker 19 5PT385 232.5 indicating the data is from logger 19.
switch settings to the host e.g. /M /m Messages /M Enables error and warning messages to be returned to host (see "Error Messages" page 21).
/N /n Channel numbers /N Includes channel number (and type if /C switch is on) with returned data (see "Output Formats" on page 10).
/a/C/d/E/f/h/J/K/l/M/N /O /o Overwrite memory /o Oldest data is over-written (/O), otherwise logging stops when memory is full (see "Logging and Data Retrieval" on page 8).
/o/Q/r/S/t/U/v/w/x/y/Z
/Q /q Program from card /Q Allows the logger to be programmed using a memory card (see "Memory Card" on page 8). /q will prevent a logger executing a card program.
/R /r Return data /R Allows real-time data to be returned to the host via the RS232 COMS port. Switching returns off ( /r) can reduce power consumption.
Fixed Format Mode /H /S /s Synchronise /S Synchronises all schedules' time intervals to midnight (e.g. RA1M will scan on the minute), otherwise schedules run from entry time (see page 3).
The fixed format mode is recommended for Prefix data with time Prefix time to logged data – equivalent to a T at beginning of a schedules channel list.
/T /t /t
those writing drivers to interface host software with Units text Measurement units are appended to returned data (see "Output Formats" on page 10), and errors are verbose (see "Error Messages" on page 21).
/U /u /U
the data†aker . In this mode the /u/n/e/r Speaker enable Enable speaker and headphone output by Geologger.
/V /v /v
switches are forced to ensure a fixed format.
These switches are restored to their original values /W /w Intermediate channels /w Allows working channels (see channel option W on page 5) to be reported and displayed but not logged (see also "Calculations" on page 7).
when the data†aker receives /h. See the /X /x Progressive max, min /x Allows the display of progressive maximum and minimum values for statistical channels on a data†aker display.
"Advanced Communications Manual" for a /Y /y Priority to return data /y If real-time data has not been returned before next scan becomes due, the returning of data is given priority and the scan may be omitted.
complete description. /Z /z Stops alarm messages /Z Enables alarms to issue action text to host computer or printer. See "Action Text" on page 9.
// – Default switches – Sets all switches to default state.
 Page 12
Display Panel Operation ... a local view of your data
Introduction Light Key: Toggles the back-light on Scroll Keys: Allow scrolling through Controlling The Screens are available. The screen is then displayed only if
The data†aker display panel has a 2 line and off. Setting 6WARN=1 turns the back-light the displayable screens. Holding a scroll key On first power-up or after a RESET, the enabled at the second level.
by 16 character back-lit liquid crystal display, 5 on and setting 5WARN=1 flashes it. When the down for more than three seconds starts display shows the Sign On Screen. There are two Second level – the operator using the keys
keys, 3 warning LEDs and a buzzer. The data†aker is asleep the back-light is off. auto-scrolling in that direction. The scroll speed levels of display control.
List hold down for edit list mode
display provides information about In conjunction with the List key, the Light is set by P18 in seconds. By default P18=2 First level – the programmer uses Scroll select screen
data†aker status, channel data, alarms and key enables or disables items for display. seconds. Pressing either scroll key stops the
W intermediate working channel option Light enable – disable display item
memory card operation. Disabled screens are flashed while the List key auto-scroll.
P19 status screen enable) This process enables or disables available
You cannot program the data†aker from is pressed, but are not visible when the key is
the display panel, however you can issue released. Warning LEDs & Buzzer: ND no display channel option. screens for display. By default, status and channel
pre-defined commands by pressing a panel key Three LEDs may be illuminated under program These controls determine if a channel is available data screens are displayed. Alarm screens must
combination (function key). control, for example: for display. By default data channels and alarms be manually enabled for display, or by setting /A.
K3 Datataker 0 K1 1..2WARN=1 3WARN=0
List Key: While the key is held down 9600 50Hz V7.xx switches LEDs 1 and 2 ON and LED 3 OFF.
the display is in list edit mode. In this mode you Scrolling above the top status screen moves to the last
K2 The buzzer is controlled by 4WARN and the
can access all displayable items using the K4 alarm screen or the last data channel screen if no alarms.
1 display back-light by 5WARN. These both pulse
Scroll keys. Items that are not normally 0
about twice per second when ON. 6WARN
displayed will become visible, and will be seen F 2 controls the display back-light but without Battery: 90% ↓
. Battery Condition. Approximate percent charge, charging ↑
to be flashing on and off. Pressing the Light key ∂ -123mA 6.8V 26°C or discharging ↓, battery current, battery voltage, battery temperature.
3 flashing.
while the List key is held down toggles the
1
display / non-display (flashing) state of the Displaying Channels Card Memory Used Card Not Present
Memory Card Data The number of
selected item. When you display channel data, the top line or data points logged, and the percentage of
452340 = 32%
Label Area: You can label the of the display shows the channel identification. memory card used, if present.
Function Shift Key: Pressing warning LEDs with a felt tipped pen. The default is the channel number and type. If 2
Memory Data points logged and percentage of internal memory
this key in conjunction with one of the other a channel identification text has been entered Int. Memory Used
keys (F1 to F4) executes a user defined 104562 = 63% used. If logging to a card, internal memory is used when the card is
command sequence. When pressed, the
Status Screens as a channel option, then the first 16 characters
of that text is displayed.
full if in stop when full mode (/o).
There are 8 status screens (see Scrolling 3 Logging
display shows the four function key labels: The bottom line on the display shows the Logging is OFF Logging to Logging to
through the Status Screens) which display or
LED On system information. By default all screens are
most recent reading as a numeric value or bar Memory Card or Internal Memory Condition
LEDoff graph. See examples to the right. Status and destination
available for display and enabled. They can be
disabled using the List and Light keys.
If the channel has not been sampled, the Screens 4
These are the default assignments. When a display shows " – – – ". Normally displayed Schedules Halted
function key is pressed, the display identifies Status screens can be enabled/disabled for C D X Schedules Halted and defined.
channels are only up-dated at report time. The
display by P19. Each bit in this parameter
the key and its label: /X switch allows the progressive display of
value represents a status screen. A "1" 5
Function 2 enables and "0" disables. The bit mapping is statistical channels at the statistical scan time. Schedules Active
––> LEDoff <–– By default all scheduled channels are A B Z Schedules Active and defined (i.e. not halted).
P19 bit map available for display and are displayed. To stop
Pressing List and Function Shift keys together msb 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 lsb display of a channel, include the ND option in 6
will reinitialize the display controller if affected Time 12:53:12
the channel's option list. For example: Time and date in the formats specified by P39 and P31.
by noise or otherwise corrupted. Setting Sign on (128) Bat. (1) Date 21/02/02
Time & Date (64) Card (2) 1V(ND)
6WARN to any value has the same effect. 7
Schedules Active (32) Memory (4) won't display data in normal or list edit modes. Datataker 0 Sign On Screen showing address, baud rate, line
Function Keys Schedules Halted (16) Logging (8) You can declare channels as intermediate
working channels with the W option. This makes
9600 50Hz V7.xx
frequency and firmware version. Displayed on power-up or RESET.
Assign function keys by the command: To make screens available set P19 to the
those channels unavailable for display, logging
Kn =" label ",[ command sequence] sum of the numbers following the required
screens, e.g. for Battery Condition and Logging
or returning to the host computer while the Channel 5LM35 Default Channel Display format e.g. 5LM35. The value is
where n is the function key number, label is the /W/w switch is set to the default /w. Setting 20.1°C of the most recent scan.
Status screens only set P19=9 (i.e. 1 + 8). By
text (up to six characters) that appears on the the switch to /W allows normal display and
default P19=255 and all screens are
display and command sequence is any set of returning to host, but not logging. Thermopile O/P Channel with Identification Text as a channel option
available. If P19=0 and there are no channels
space separated commands. For example:
or alarms to display then the Sign On Screen is Channel 25.751 mV e.g. 5V("Thermopile O/P")
K2="Scan 1",[RA10S 1..5TT] displayed. Displaying Alarms Screens Bar Graph: Channel with name and bar graph channel options
Any status screens disabled by this method When you display alarms, the top line of the
places RA10S 1..5TT on function key F2. Low...Fuel..High e.g. 3#L(ND)(NR,NL,BG0:100,"Low...Fuel..High")
are not available for display by the List key. display identifies the alarm and the state of the
The command sequence can be up to 255 where channel 3 is a 4 to 20mA loop returning reading between 0 and
alarm – ON or OFF. If the alarm channel
characters and must be entered in a single line. 100%. Note that the Identification Text is used as a scale label, and
The default function key assignments are: Power Consumption definition includes identification text, then this is
displayed when the alarm is not true. If the the NR and NL options ensure that it is used for no other purpose.
The data†aker Display Panel draws less This example also shows how the multiple report facility (the two
K1="LED On", [1..3WARN=1] alarm contains action text, this is displayed
than 3mA while the back-light is off. However option lists) can be used to separate report and display functions. You
K2="LEDOff", [1..3WARN=0] when the alarm is true.
with the back-light switched on the current draw can use bar graphs in alarms.
K3="", [ ] The bottom line of the display shows the
increases to approximately 80mA. This is very Alarm 35 OFF
K4="", [ ] significant and represents a 70% increase in
most recent reading as a numeric value or bar Alarm 350.47 MPa Default Alarm Display . The alarm state is indicated by ON
graph. See the examples to the right. Screens
The function keys can be very useful. For the logger's normal power consumption. The or OFF.
Alarms are available for display by default,
example the keys can be used to completely result can be that battery life is reduced when Alarms with Text: Input Channel
but are not automatically displayed. They can Oven OK Oven OverTemp
reprogram the data†aker , with a different the back-light is left on. 105.3°C
or 120.6°C
be enabled for display using the List and Light Name is displayed when alarm not true
program assigned to each key. The key However if the power mode is left at the
keys. The /A switch forces display of alarms if (off), and Action Text is displayed when
functions can also be assigned by ALARMS. default (see "Setting the Power Mode" on Scrolling below the
entered before the alarm commands. The ND alarm true (on)eg.
Remember however that stored data must be page 15) the display power consumption should last data channel or
channel option can be used to make alarm alarm moves to the ALARM7(4TT("Oven OK")>107)"Oven OverTemp"
cleared before a new program can be loaded. not be an issue.
channels unavailable for display. top status screen.
 Page 13
COMMS Port ... let’s talk
Introduction Special Commands The RS232 COMMS Port RS232 COMMS Port Isolation
All data†aker models have a 9 pin female (DE9) The data†aker has three special serial interface The data†aker RS232 COMMS port connector is detailed The RS232 COMMS port of all models of the data†aker
connector for RS232 or RS423 communications with a commands to assist in managing communications below Series 2 and 3 data loggers are electrically isolated to 500V.
computer. This interface, the RS232 COMMS port, is the ^ZCMSRST clear the input and output buffers, 5 N/C
means by which you program the data†aker , or a and set XON state
network of data†akers, from a computer. ^ZSXOFF will XOFF the data†aker
N/C 9
4 RxD
Using Modems with data†aker
The RS232 COMMS port of the data†aker is These comments relate to the Remote Modem (at the
^ZQXON will XON the data†aker N/C 8
electrically isolated. Refer to the Appendix for details of data†aker end). The Local Modem (at the computer end)
The last two commands allow remote loggers to be 3 TxD
the RS232 COMMS port of your data†aker . should be "Added" into your Windows operating system, where it
XOFF'ed and XON'ed without modems or telemetry N/C 7
can be accessed by DeTransfer and DeLogger.
devices in the link "consuming" the commands. 2 N/C Enter the following commands into the data†aker using a
RS232 COMMS Parameters N/C 6
computer running DeTransfer or other communications program,
The RS232 COMMS port parameters are fixed 1
except for the baud rate as follows Loading a Program Interface Ground before connecting the Remote Modem
The data†aker 's input buffer is 250 characters /e 'data†aker echo OFF
Baud rate 300, 1200, 2400, 4800 or 9600 long, and a burst of 250 characters without a pause The configuration of communications cables to connect the /m 'data†aker error messages OFF
Data bits 8 between characters is possible. A single command line data†aker to computers and modems are detailed below. /r 'data†aker returns OFF
Parity none fixed must be less than 250 characters. The data†aker
Stop bits 1 It is recommended that a PASSWORD (see opposite) be used
begins to process the input buffer when the first carriage
The baud rate is set by a DIP switch which is return is received. A full 250 characters of program PC - 25 pin for security, and to protect the logger from "garbage" characters
created when the link between the modems is disconnected.
accessed by removing the data†aker top cover. Refer takes up to 500mS to compile if the data†aker is not
The DTR input of the Remote Modem may need to be
to the Appendix for your data†aker for details of the scanning, and up to 5 seconds if it is running long FG 1 5 asserted. This can be done in the cabling by tying DTR high, or by
location of the switch and settings. The data†aker is schedules and many alarms. Digital assignment delay 9
Yellow using the AT&D0 command.
shipped with the baud rate set to 9600 baud. periods such as 1DSO(1000)=0 add to this time. TxD 2 4
Enter the following commands into the Remote Modem with a
The host must ensure that the data†aker has 8
Blue computer running DeTransfer or other communications program.
sufficient time to process a down-loaded program. This RxD 3 3
Operation can be achieved by using the XOFF – XON flow control, 7 These commands are typical, however some modems may need
All communications with the data†aker use the Green different commands for some of these settings. (The text in the
or by time delays between transmissions. GND 7 2
ASCII character set. The eighth bit is normally a "0", 6 brackets are comments, and should not be entered).
however an extension to the character set (for the text RTS 4 Shield
1 AT&F (Set factory defaults)
strings and for special display characters) is possible if Waking From Sleep Mode CTS 5 AT&D0 (Ignore the DTR signal )
this bit is set to a "1". For all commands other than If characters are received while the data†aker is AT$F0 (Xon/Xoff flow control - CTS/RTS cannot be used)
in Sleep Mode, the logger wakes. Characters received in DSR 6 data†aker
switches and text strings, the data†aker ignores ATS0=2 (Auto Answer after two rings - other values are OK)
Computer DE9 Male
lower case characters. the first 75mS are lost. Characters received between 55 DCD 8 ATQ1 (Disable response codes - CONNECT , OK etc.)
and 125mS may generate communications errors. DB25 Female
By default most characters that are received by the DTR 20 ATE0 (Disable command echo)
data†aker are echoed (transmitted back to the To reliably wake the data†aker if communicating ATY1 (Enable Break disconnect)
computer). This action is disabled by the echo switch /e. manually (eg. Windows HyperTerminal or other terminal AT&W0 (Save settings in User Profile 0 - sometimes AT&W)
applications), send a carriage return or line feed and wait
It is important that the RS232 port of the Remote Modem is
Special Characters 300mS before sending commands. DeTransfer and PC - 9 pin locked to a baud rate the same as the data†aker. Consult your
DeLogger have a setting in their respective connection
XOFF stops data†aker transmitting 5 modem manual for the command to set the RS232 port baud rate.
definitions to [X] Wake Logger, which performs this task.
XON allows data†aker to transmit 9 For a more comprehensive discussion about use of modems
Yellow refer to the "Advanced Communications Manual", or to the
BS (backspace) deletes previous character TxD 3 4
(echoes BS space BS)
Password Protection 8 Technical Notes series at www.datataker.com.
The data†aker has password protection on the Blue If the Remote Modem has a "dumb" mode, use it! This mode is
DEL (delete, Alt 127) clears command input buffer RxD 2 3
RS232 COMMS port. When a password is enabled, 7 manufacturer specific, and usually means that the modem is
(echoes < < CR LF) Green
communications is only possible after the password is GND 5 2 preconfigured to a known state, and will not respond to
CR (return) terminates a command line
(echoed as CR LF) entered. Password protection is particularly useful when 6 commands. Consult the modem's manual for details.
Shield
the data†aker is connected via a modem, to prevent RTS 7 1 Once the remote modem has been set up, connect it to the
LF (line feed) ignored
unauthorized access and to eliminate line noise being CTS 8 data†aker using a MOD-3 cable, or the cable diagrammed
Space and tab command separator
interpreted as commands during call establishment. The data†aker below. Use DeTransfer or DeLogger to call the remote site.
# (hatch) network address identifier DSR 6
; (semicolon) directs command to memory card password is set by assignment DE9 Male
DCD 1 Computer
' (single quote) comment character (up to a CR) PASSWORD="password text" DE9 Female
@ message to remote COMS port The password text may be any string (except command DTR 4 Modem (DCE) Cable
in a network keywords) up to 10 case sensitive characters. Assigning
Frame
a null string by PASSWORD="" removes a password. 1 5
XOFF – XON Flow Control To establish communications, enter the password Macintosh Ground 9
If data†aker returns data faster than the computer followed by a carriage return at any time. If the password 5 RxD 3 Yellow 4
can receive it, then the computer (software) can send an is accepted, the logger responds "Accepted" and the 9 8
Blue
XOFF character which will stop data transmission within RS232 COMMS port is open for communications. If there Tx– 3 4 TxD 2 3
two character periods, giving the computer time to is no communications for a period of time defined by 8 7
Rx– Green
5 3 GND 7 2
process its buffered data. When the computer is ready to P14 (default 300 seconds), then the RS232 COMMS 7 6
receive data, it sends an XON character to data†aker port will timeout and is closed. The port can also be RTS 4 Shield
GND 4 2 1
to resume transmission. A data†aker in XOFF state closed at any time by the SIGNOFF command. 6 CTS 5
can also auto-XON (see Parameter 26 on page 11). The data†aker will respond to the DEL character Frame Shield 1 Modem
The data†aker issues XOFF when its input buffer with << CR LF regardless of the password state. This Gnd DCD 8 data†aker
(DCE)
is 50%, 75% and 90% full and XON when the input can be used to identify a data†aker . Male 8 Pin DE9 Male
data†aker DTR 20 DB25 Male
buffer is empty. Mini DIN DE9 Male
 Page 14
Networking ... distributed processing
Introduction For example, for channels 1..3TT with switches set to Messages to COMMS Ports Real-Time Network
data†aker models with an RS485 network port can be /n/c/u/L and P22=32 (space - the default), the returned You can connect other devices to the remaining Where the emphasis is on rapid response or tracking
connected in a local area network (LAN) with up to to 32 data will have the following format data†aker RS232 COMMS ports, such as a printer, a conditions, network speed becomes vital. There are many
loggers. Network cable is limited to 1000 meters total. terminal or another computer. ways the network can be managed, however as a general
19 25.6 45.8 32.7 rule more speed leads to more complexity in host software.
DeLogger 3 supports the data†aker network, however
DeLogger 4 does not support the network. If the /N switch is enabled (default), then the name 1. Poll channels one at a time. This method is simple but
Network - a Twisted Pair of Wires (note polarity)
The proprietary network protocol has error detection and Datataker is added to the logger address and the slow. Any polling over a network can take up to two seconds
correction, and operates at 1200 baud over a twisted pair of channels are identified before a reply is received. As only one operation is
polarised wires. data†akers are wired in parallel with all Datataker 19 1TT 25.6 2TT 45.8 3TT 32.7 + – + – + – + – + – undertaken at a time, there can be no confusion about the
"NET+" terminals are connected to one wire and all "NET–" Net Net Net Net Net source of the data. For example
Datatakers
terminals connected to the second wire. Ideally, the network If the units text switch is also on /U then the returned
cable should have a shield that is grounded at a single point. data will look like the following poll (assume /n/u) #21 2V
COMS COMS COMS COMS COMS receive 156.54
Datataker 19 poll #29 5TT
Network - a Twisted Pair of Wires (note polarity)
1TT 25.6 Deg C receive 105.1
2TT 45.8 Deg C
3TT 32.7 Deg C The polling speed can be as low as one channel every two
+ – + – + – + – + – seconds.
Net Net Net data†akers Net Net Note that the logger address is placed at the beginning of
each schedule's scan report. Data unloaded from the data 2. Poll by alarms one at a time using the ?n command
COM COM COM COM COM memory is treated identically. (see "Polling Alarm Data" on page 9). This is similar to
Host Computer Printer Second Host method 1, but is slightly faster as it returns the last reading of
An alternative method to identify the data†aker from
which the data is being sent is to load the data†aker with the alarm channel rather than initiating a new scan.
"Local Logger" an identifying string e.g. $="Logger 19", which is then 3. Poll channel groups using the RX schedule (see
The following commands allow text to be sent to these
Computer included in a schedule. For example the program: "Polled Schedule" on page 3). For example
RS232 or ports from the network host
RS423 #19 $="PumpHouse 19" program logger 21 #21 RX 2V 3..4TT(FF1) /u/n
@ n text sends text to COMS port of logger n
interface #19 $ 1..3TT P22=44 /n/u logger 29 #29 RX 1..4DS /u/n
@@ text sends text to all COMS ports
will return data to the computer e.g.
poll logger 21 #21 X
The computer can be connected to any data†aker receive 21 156.54 23.5 28.9
PumpHouse 19,25.6,45.8,32.7 @27 Hello there^M^J poll logger 29 #29 X
(referred to as the local logger) in the network through its
RS232 COMMS port. Data is returned to the COMMS port of This method allows any string of up to 80 characters to be will direct the message to the RS232 COMMS port of logger receive 0 1 1 0
the local logger. P21 will allow this return address to be used as the logger identification. Special control characters 27. The text string may be up to 250 characters long, and can
This method retains most of the simplicity of method 1, but is
over ridden (see "Parameters" on page 11). may be included to assist in identification. See "Text String" include control characters in the text as illustrated above (see
faster - up to 20 channels every two seconds.
You can connect computers to different data†akers on page 6 and "ASCII-Decimal Equivalents" on page 23. also "ASCII Characters" on page 23).
4. Poll all alarms on a logger by the ?ALL command
in a network. If each host is simply polling for data with
(see "Polling Alarm Data" on page 9). This is similar to the
immediate schedules (see page 3), operation is predictable.
Setting the Network Address Networking and Power Down previous method but is faster at 30 channels every two
If you enter repeating schedule types ( RA, RB, RC or RD), Normally when a logger is asleep, it will not wake when
The data†aker network address is set by a DIP switch seconds.
then the data generated by these schedules will only be network activity begins. To ensure proper operation the
in a binary code. The DIP switch is accessed by removing the 5. By frequent Unloads (see "Data Logging and Retrieval"
available to the host that issued them. loggers must be kept awake by setting P15=2. Alternatively
data†aker top cover. Refer to the Appendix for your model on page 8). This method uses the data†aker data memory
data†aker for location and setting details. data†akers loggers can be programmed to be awake (using ALARM
as an expanded output buffer, that is cleared after each
Addressing data†aker are shipped with the address set to 0. commands) when network communications are expected.
unload by the CLAST command. For example
The computer can issue commands to any data†aker If you give two loggers the same address, then network
in the network by placing an address prefix at the beginning errors will occur when commands are directed to them. Programming a Network program all loggers
program logger 21
## /u/n P25=42
#21 RA10S 2V 3..4TT LOGON
of a command line The data†aker models without network support also The main difference between operating a single logger
have an address, however it only serves for data†aker and a network of loggers is that the task of managing the logger 29 #29 RA10S 3R 1..4DS LOGON
#n commands send commands to logger n
identification. returned data and alarms becomes more complex. The best unload logger 21 #21 U
## commands send commands to all loggers
method for managing the network will depend on the goals receive 156.54 23.5 28.9
e.g. receive 157.33 23.3 29.7
#5 RA1M 3V Network and Modems • data logging *
will command logger 5 to return to the host the voltage on The network can be extended by modems or radio • monitoring for alarm conditions clear data #21 CLAST
channel 3 every minute. modems that can operate at 1200 baud and can automatically • rapid real-time response unload logger 29 #29 U
Take care in using the wildcard address ## when the "turn-around" (change direction of data transfer). This is an • simplicity of programming receive 105.6 0 1 1 0
command returns data, as the data from the loggers may be important issue with radio modems, where changing from • telemetry or modem connection receive 104.4 0 0 1 0
mixed and not easily separated. The wildcard address is transmit mode to receive mode can take as long as 500mS. Don't underestimate the complexity of managing a large *
particularly useful for setting the time, switches and The network turn-around time can be adjusted by volume of data. Unloading a data†aker with a large clear data #29 CLAST
parameters on all loggers: parameter P7 in increments of 14mS. For example setting memory card over a network link can take over an hour. The unload steps are repeated for the duration of the
P7=22 would set the turn-around time to 300mS. There are two distinct class of networks: part-time and
## T=11:23:30 There is no electrical signal to indicate turn-around. The monitoring task. This method ensures regular sampling by
real-time networks. normal schedules.
## /N/c/u/L P22=44 modem must detect when the data†aker is sending
The address is optional for commands to the local network data and rapidly switch to transmit mode. The 6. By synchronous returns from all loggers that have been
Part-Time Network
logger. Remote loggers must be addressed. data†aker does not issue any message preamble. See programmed by standard schedules RA, RB, RC and RD.
If the main task is data logging, then communications
the "Advanced Communications Manual" for details. This is the most flexible method, as it allows each logger full
between the network and the computer can be infrequent
Network modems must be "dumb". As the data†aker control of the schedule scanning. However in order to work, it
Identifying the Data Source already provides an error correcting protocol, the modem
(hours, days or weeks) and so you can program and unload
requires that the host software use more sophisticated data
Data is returned to the RS232 COMMS port that made each logger in the network individually. This is the same as
must not overlay an additional protocol layer. This applies routing and time stamping techniques.
the request, unless changed by P21. It is recommended using a single logger, except that you must specifically
particularly to radio modems where it is common to find error 7. The use of the fixed format mode /H is recommended
that all loggers in a network have the /L address switch set, address commands for each logger.
correction built-in. for real-time networks. See "Fixed Format Mode" on page 10,
so that the logger address is prefixed to data and responses.
and the "Advanced Communications Manual".
 Page 15
Power and Battery Connection ... take care
Powering the data†aker Battery Life The chart makes certain assumptions:
The data†aker data loggers can be powered from P17 sets the period (secs) that data†aker remains The battery life that can be achieved by the • all channels are scanned at the same rate
Source Typical Range Connection Terminals awake after activity on RS232 COMMS, network, keypad or data†aker depends on • alarms are scanned at same rate as channels
wake terminal ceases. Default is 30 secs.
AC 9 – 18Vac ~AC/DC and ~AC/DC • scan interval (including alarm and statistical scans) • default switch and parameter settings
P20 masks schedules from waking a sleeping logger • number of analog channels • sensor current draw is less than 5mA and is switched
DC 11 – 28Vdc ~AC/DC and GND
Battery 6 – 9 Vdc + Bat and –Bat P20 bit map • number of digital channels • 80% of battery energy is available
msb 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 lsb • number of alarms • battery shelf life is long
Refer to the Appendix for details of your data†aker . The • sensor excitation power draw • baud rate is 1200
following diagram shows a simplified power circuit Immediate (128) RZ - alarms (1) • complexity of any calculations If your operation arrangements vary greatly from these
RD - schedule (64) X - polled (2) • baud rate
6.9V Switch Mode RC - schedule (32) RS - statistical (4) assumptions, then refer to "Some Details" (below) to calculate
Regulator RB - schedule (16) RA - schedule (8) A precise calculation is very involved, but the chart average current draw and battery life.
(–9.2mV/°C) below gives a conservative estimation of battery life for
AC/DC ~ 6.9V
Default P20=0 means all schedules wake the logger different operational conditions.
Power when they become due, while P20=65 (i.e. 64 + 1) means
~ Internal the RD and RZ schedules will not wake the logger. P20
Battery Life for DT50 and DT500/600 models by

hr
hr
1000µF Battery Connector does not disable schedules if the logger is already awake.

al r
lk h
e)
A
A

(a A
in
Number of Channels Scanned at Regular Intervals

0
2

17
Powering the Multiplexer

4.
1.
External Battery Protection 0.22Ω Lead +

Battery Life per Amp-Hour in Hours

Circuit 10000
Connections Power consumption can be minimised by powering down 10K
Bat. – 1 year 100K
the input multiplexers of some models of data†aker while year
Bat + 10year
the logger is in the sleep state. The factory preset for these 10K
Alkaline + 10 channels
Bat – models is to power down the multiplexers in the sleep state. year
The current saving is approximately 150µA. Refer to the 1000 1K
Appendix for your data†aker for details. 1 channel
Gnd Gnd. 1 month 20 channels 10K
month year
Powering down the multiplexer may cause problems with 220hrs 10 channel line
1 week 1K
some sensors. For inputs over about 0.5 Volts, the input (example) (example) week
impedance drops from tens of megohms to hundreds of month
Caution: If a DC supply is grounded, it MUST be a negative 100
ohms. This may cause current draw from sensors, and 100
ground. An AC supply MUST NOT be grounded. 30 channels 1K

30 second interval
possibly inject some of this current into other sensors. 1 day week
If an external battery is connected to a data†aker month

(example)
500, 600, 505, 605, 515 or 615 data logger which also has DT505,605,515 and 615 with relay multiplexers do no 100
day
an internal 6V gel cell battery, then the external battery must have these issues, since relays are open circuit when off. week
10 10
also be a 6V gel cell battery, and MUST be connected with day 100
the correct polarity, or damage WILL occur. The Wake Terminal
A low state (< 0.7V) on the Wake terminal will wake the 10
Low Power Operation logger within 300mS. This can be from a relay closure or
open collector NPN transistor to ground. The Wake signal 1 1
day
The data†aker uses little power, and a set of six 1 minute 1 hour 1 day
alkaline D cells can power the logger for more than a year if line has an internal 1800Ω pull-up resistor to +5V.
1 10 100 1000 10000 100000
precautions are taken to avoid excessive current draw. A permanent low on the wake terminal will not prevent
short periods (~100mS) of sleep if there is no schedule Scan Interval In Seconds Battery Life in
The data†aker has two power states - wake and
sleep. While in the wake state the logger is fully active and activity! Only P15=2 keeps the logger permanently awake. (log scale) Hours for Three
draws up to 500mA, but typically 120mA. In the sleep state Battery Sizes
only the high speed counters, clock and the wake circuit are A Low Power Program!
active, and current draw is reduced to less than 0.4mA.
The data†aker will wake when
You may find this framework useful when designing low
power programs. After RESET, enter the following program
Using the Battery Life Chart least one full second. Current draw is 120mA while awake
Establish the scan interval and locate it on the Scan and 0.4mA while asleep.
• any scheduled scan becomes due P15=1 'sleep if not busy Interval axis. The chart shows an example of 30 seconds.
• a memory card is inserted P17=5 'go to sleep quickly Project a vertical line to the curves. The curves
• characters are received at the RS232 COMMS port /u/n 'disable chan no and units correspond to different numbers of channels. Interpolate if Solar Charging
• the wake terminal is grounded Sealed gel cell batteries may be charged via a 12V solar
S1=0,100,0,1000"%RH" 'define spans, etc. here necessary. The channels are assumed to be analog. For this
• a key is pressed on display versions panel. The data†aker provides current and voltage
BEGIN estimation a digital channel is equivalent to one quarter of an
The data†aker will sleep unless the program inhibits limiting to protect both the panel and battery, provided that
RS15M 'scan as infrequently as possible, analog channel.
sleeping by setting P15=2, or by rapid scanning. Make sure the panel is connected to the AC/DC Power input. Do not
RA1H 'especially for statistical schedules Project a horizontal line from the curve intersect to the
that input channels (for alarms or data logging) are not being attempt to charge alkaline battery packs.
1V("Humidity",S1,AV) right, across the three scales that correspond to standard
sampled more frequently than is necessary. The size of the solar panel required depends on the
2PT385("Air temp",4W,AV,=1CV) Datataker battery sizes. From the appropriate scale read the
RZ1H 'set alarm rate if using alarms battery life. For the example on the chart, the battery lives hours of full sunlight that can be expected. As a general rule
Setting the Power Mode IF(1CV>25)"[LOGON]" are 300, 800 and 4000 hours for 1.2, 4 and 17 Ah batteries. only one day in seven should be regarded as a "charge day",
and the charge must be able to fully replenish the batteries
P15 is used to set the power mode, as follows IF(1CV<20)"[LOGOFF]" If you use a non-standard battery, then look at the chart
END axis on the left. The battery life is equal to the scale value on that day. The solar panel rating is calculated as follows:
P15 Sleep entry condition
RS232 COMMS activity can be reduced to save power (220 hrs. for the example) multiplied by the battery's Iw
0 Sleep only if battery powered (default) Panel Rating = ––––––– Amps (in full sunlight)
by setting the /r switch (see "Switches - /R" on page 11). amp-hour rating. Tw x η
1 Sleep if not busy where
2 Disable Sleep mode
Lithium Battery - Replacement Some Details I w is the amp-hours per week consumed by the logger
When logger is awake, and P15=0, the battery current The data†aker takes approximately 300mS to wake Tw is the hours per week of full sunlight
The √ AA lithium battery maintains the real time clock and
is measured every second. If less than 20mA is drawn from internal data memory when data†aker is not powered. up, 40mS for each analog channel, 10mS for each digital η is the efficiency - a combination of battery charge
the battery (because the battery is being charged from an channel, and 10 to 50mS for each calculation. Also the absorption and the cosine effect. Typical 0.65.
This battery must be replaced every 2 years. The lithium
external supply), then sleep mode is not entered. P15=1 data†aker must wake at least once every 18 minutes for
battery is located on the lower printed circuit board, and the Setting P15=1 ensures that the data†aker sleeps
allows sleep mode without testing battery current. time keeping, and will not sleep unless it can sleep for at
logger must be disassembled to replace the battery. whenever possible to conserve power.
 Page 16
Sensors 1 ... understanding helps
Thermocouples Thermistors

tR C
(w . Te °C
Introduction Thermocouple Types

p)
ou p °
°C

p
Grounded Thermocouples

ith m
M em
YS 25
A thermocouple is two wires of dissimilar metals The data†aker supports all of the commonly

pe el
Introduction

or
Ty nn

.T
at
that are electrically connected at one end (the recognised thermocouple types: Frequently, thermocouple measurement junctions

ns
ha

in
Ω

ax
are electrically connected (by welding, brazing, Thermistors are semiconductor

I
Se
measurement junction) and thermally connected at Type Positive Negative Range °C

R
C

M
the other end (the reference junction). soldering or by contact) to the object being devices that change their electrical
B Pt, 30%Rh Pt, 6%Rh +300 to 1700 YS01 100 44001A,44101A 100 -65 resistance with temperature. Therm-
measured. This is only possible if the object is
C W, 5%Re W, 26%Re 0 to 2320 YS02 300 44002A, 44102A 100 -45 istors measure temperatures from
Measurement Reference Junction grounded to the data†aker 's ground, however this
D W, 3%Re W, 25%Re 0 to 2320 YS03 1000 44003A, 44101A 100 -20 –80°C up to 250°C. They are
Junction (Isothermal block) may introduce a troublesome ground loop that can
E Ni, 10%Cr Cu, 45%Ni -200 to 900 44035 100 -20 sensitive but highly nonlinear. Data-
metal 1 copper allow significant series mode noise to affect readings.
G W W, 26%Re 0 to 2320 YS04 2252 44004, 44104 150 1 takers support all two wire YSI*
To This effect can be minimised by using differential
J Fe Cu, 45%Ni -200 to 750 44033 75 1 thermistors. The response is
microvolt connection (eg. 1TK) or single ended connection
K Ni, 10%Cr Ni, 2%Mn, 2%Al -200 to 1250 45004, 46004 200 1
metal 2 copper meter with the S.E.Ref. terminal connected to the grounded 1
N Ni,14%Cr,1%Si Ni,4%Si,0.1%Mg -200 to 1350 46033, 46043 200 1 T = –––––––––––––––––––––
object (eg. 1TK(X)).
R Pt, 13%Rh Pt 0 to 1450 44901 90 1 a + b.Ln(R) + c.Ln(R)3
Temperature
Ref. Junction S Pt, 10%Rh Pt 0 to 1450 44902 70 1 The constant terms are those
Prime Sensor Accuracy YS05 3000 44005, 44105 150 7
temperature Temperature T Cu Cu, 45%Ni -200 to 350 recommended by YSI*.
The accuracy of temperature measurement with 44030 75 7
gradient Each type has characteristics (sensitivity, thermocouples is dependent on the: As the data†aker is unable to
45005, 46005 200 7 measure resistances over about 7KΩ,
stability, temperature range, robustness and cost) • reference junction isothermal characteristics 46030, 46040 200 7
A small voltage is produced when the two a resistor should be connected in
that make it appropriate for particular applications. • reference temperature sensor accuracy 44903 90 7
junctions are at different temperatures. This voltage parallel when a thermistor is expected
is produced by the temperature gradient along the • induced electrical noise 44904 70 7
Thermocouples on data†aker • quality of the thermocouple wire YS07 5000 44007, 44107 150 18
to exceed 7KΩ
wires and not by the junctions. Thermocouples are wired to the data†aker
It is important that the purity of the thermocouple • drift in the wire, especially at high temperatures. 44034 75 18
as for any voltage signal. The channel type is a Tt Parallel
wire be maintained where significant temperature • basic measurement accuracy of the Datataker 45007, 46007 250 18 Thermistor Rp
where t is the thermocouple type (TB,TC...TT). Resistor
gradients occur. Because high purity wire can be • linearisation accuracy of the Datataker 46034, 46044 250 18
Using the thermocouple channel type reads the 44905 90 18
expensive it is common practice to use thermocouple channel as a voltage and automatically applies cold The most significant source of error is the and
extension wire to cover long distances where 44906 70 18 7000 x R max
junction compensation and linearisation. reference junction. The data†aker must not be R p = –––––––––––– Ohms
temperatures are within the normal environmental exposed to differential heating as a single reference YS17 6000 44017 150 22 Rmax – 7000
45017 250 22
range. Such wire can be used for measurement Reference Junction Support temperature sensor is used to measure the
46017 200 22
where Rmax is the maximum value of
junctions, but only over a restricted temperature The data†aker by default uses the internal temperature of the screw terminals of all channels. the thermistor's resistance at the
range of typically -20°C to 120°C. Should a temperature gradient occur along the 46037, 46047 200 22 lowest expected temperature. The
temperature sensor (channel 1%LM35 on the logger
terminal strip, then errors of the magnitude of the YS16 10K 44016 150 34 value of Rp is placed in the channel
Making the Measurement Junction and n :1%LM35 on Channel Expansion Modules)
temperature difference will occur. 44036 75 34 option list e.g.
The measurement junction can be made by as the reference junction sensor. The internal sensor
The data†aker 's basic measurement
46036 200 34
welding, brazing, soldering or crimping the two wires has an accuracy of ±0.5°C, and may be trimmed by
accuracy can be a source of error. The zero error is YS06 10K 44006, 44106 150 35 5YS07(10000)
together. Take care to ensure that the wire material P2 (in units of 0.001°C). 44031 75 35
However you can also use any channel as the ±4µV for inputs up to 30mV (±40µV for inputs up to The resistor quality should be 1% and
is not contaminated where the temperature gradient 45006 250 35
reference junction temperature sensor channel. This 300mV), while the scale factor error is ±0.1%. For a T 50 ppm/°C or better.
is to occur. 46006 200 35
is done by including the TR option in the channel's type thermocouple at 100°C this can result in an error
The junction can be insulated or left bare for a 46031, 46041 200 35 * YSI Incorporated
option list. The channel must return its value in the of ±0.2°C, climbing to ±0.5°C at 400°C. Note also
more rapid response. If left bare, ensure that the 44907 90 35 Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387 USA
current temperature units. The following are valid that the error is dependent on thermocouple
junction does not make intermittent contact with 44908 70 35 Fax 513 767-9353
sensitivity. For example the K type thermocouple at
metal objects. This can introduce electrical noise 4LM35(TR) an external LM35 as a reference 1200°C the error can be as high as 2.1°C.
(see "Grounded Thermocouples" below). 3V(Y1,TR) polynomial Y1 converts V to temp. The data†aker 's linearisation errors are much
Reference Junction Compensation 11SV(TR) use when thermocouple externally lower than other error sources.
compensated (Note 11SV=0.00).
Conventionally the reference junction is held at These errors are additive and are generally RTDs
0°C, and thermocouple responses are determined A second compensation facility lets you correct contained within the error bounds as shown in the
with a 0°C reference. This is inconvenient in most for voltage offset errors that may occur on all following diagram (the reference junction error is The Alpha is defined by:
situations, and so in practice the reference junction is channels of an external isothermal block. This is the assumed to have been trimmed out): Introduction
Resistance Temperature Detectors R100 – R 0
allowed to follow to ambient temperature. However TZ channel option. The channel must return its value α = –––––––––– Ω/Ω/°C
in the units of mV. e.g. 1V(TZ). or RTDs are sensors generally made 100 x R0
this non-zero reference junction temperature must be
This arrangement of reference channels provides from a pure (or lightly doped) metal
compensated for by measuring the reference where R 0 and R100 are the resistances
whose electrical resistance increases
temperature with a different type of temperature the flexibility to use multiple external isothermal 2.0 or
err out) with temperature. Provided that the at 0° and 100°C.
sensor. blocks. Each isothermal block can have its own set tor d The three RTD channel types are
This correction can be made in hardware or, as of reference channels. amplifier fac me element is not mechanically stressed,
1.5 gain change ale trim and is not contaminated by impurities, connected as for a resistance. The 0°C
with the data†aker, in software. The software The reference temperature and reference zero sc be resistance is assumed to be 100Ω for
channel readings remain current until the reference a n the devices are stable, reliable and
approach allows support for any thermocouple type
Error °C

(c zero error accurate. platinum, and 1000Ω for nickel types.

without hardware dependence. channels are scanned again. They should be placed 1.0 Other values can be specified as a
data†akers support four RTD
in the same schedule before the thermocouple rror limit channel option. The default connection
Isothermal Block ation e types PT385, PT392, NI and CU:
Generally the reference junctions are held at the
channels to which they apply, as in the following 0.5 linearis is for a 3 wire measurement, but 4 wire
example Metal Alpha Standard can be specified as a channel option
same temperature by a physical arrangement that
ensures good thermal conductivity between the RB15M 1PT395(TR) 2V(TZ) 3..5TT Platinum α = 0.003850 (DIN43760) for greater accuracy. For example
junctions. This structure is called an "isothermal which assumes an external isothermal block with its -200 0 500 1000 1500 Platinum α = 0.003916 (JIS C1604)
Temperature °C PT385(4W,50.0)
block". It is advisable to insulate the isothermal block temperature measured on channel 1, and electrical Nickel α = 0.005001
from rapid ambient temperature changes. zero on channel 2. Copper α = 0.00390 will read a 4 wire 50Ω (at 0°C) device.
 Page 17
Sensors 2 ... understanding helps
Hints for Successful Measurement ... some tips for good data IC Temperature Sensors ... wiring configs. 18, 19, 20, 21
Ground Loops is not an effective counter-measure. The only practical Introduction
Ground loops are a common cause of many measures are to avoid magnetic fields, and to use close Integrated Circuit (IC) temperature sensors are devices Sensor Slope Pivot Tp Channel Factor Formula
measurement problems, including noise, offsets and twisted conductors for the signal wiring. Shielding in that are constructed on small silicon chips. These are linear,
sensitive and available in both voltage and current output AD590 0°K (-273.15°C) Series resistor R (Ω) =RxC
erratic behaviour. Ground loops occur when a circular steel pipe can be effective, but is generally not economic
configurations. They share the thermistor's disadvantage of LM335 0°K (-273.15°C) Attenuation factor A =AxC
conduction path is established between grounds in a or convenient.
limited temperature range (generally –40°C to +150°C) and LM34 0°F (-17.78°C) Calibration factor = C
system. The influence of noise can be minimised using the
self-heating from power dissipation caused by the excitation LM35 0°C Calibration factor = C
The use of differential inputs instead of single ended ESn channel option (see "Extra Samples" on page 5)
inputs overcomes most ground loop problems. and averaging (see "Statistical Channels" on page 6). current needed to read the sensor. The calibration factor is calculated from the pivot
Fundamental to the condition is the incorrect data†aker supports the four most commonly available temperature T p, the temperature error ∆T and the
assumption that there is a single ground potential in a
Self Heating of Sensors IC sensor types temperature T of the calibration.
measurement system. In practice, two grounds in a Sensors that need excitation power to be read are
Sensor Output Channel Type Wiring Config. ∆T
system are rarely at the same potential. The result is heated by power dissipation. This can be particularly C = 1 – –––––
acute with temperature sensors and some sensitive T – Tp
that ground currents are very common, and if allowed to AD590* 1µA/°K nAD590 18, (7, 8)
flow through the sensor wiring then measurement errors bridges. Minimise error by minimising the excitation & AD592* All temperatures must be of the same units.
are inevitable. power, exciting only when needed (by using the excite LM34** 10mV/°F n LM34 20, 21, (1, 2, 3)
Where ground loops are suspected of causing errors terminal), or by calibrating out steady state errors. LM35** 10mV/°C n LM35 20, 21, (1, 2, 3) Example
then connecting all grounds in a system together can LM335** 10mV/°K nLM335 19, (4, 5, 6) For the AD590 sensor, the channel factor represents the
correct the problem.
Accuracy value of the series resistor used to measure the output
The basic accuracy of the data†aker is 0.1% of Calibration current (the default value is 100.0Ω). Without changing the
reading (not full scale) plus a small offset error (4µV, IC temperature sensors have different calibration
Noise Pick-up actual resistor, this channel factor is adjusted. If the
40µV and 400µV) for each voltage measurement range grades. The lowest grades typically have an error of up to
There are two main ways in which noise can be temperature error is determined to be 1.7°C higher than
at 25°C. The temperature coefficient for the scale factor ±2°C at 25°C. More expensive sensors have an error of
introduced into signal wiring: by capacitive coupling and actual at 100°C, the channel factor correction is:
is 20ppm/°C max. Any one of the three basic ranges ±0.25°C. This error is a combination of an offset (or zero)
by magnetic induction. There are different counter error and a slope error. ∆T )
Channel factor = R x ( 1 – ––––––
may be trimmed to 0.003% by trim-pot or P1. The
measures for each. T – Tp
data†aker self calibrates its measurement circuits The data†aker provides a slope (or scale)
Shielding signal wiring will minimise capacitive noise correction capability on a per sensor basis using the channel 1.7
= 100 x ( 1 – ––––––––––––– )
whenever its input voltage offset drifts by more than a
pick-up. Signal wiring that is close to line voltage cable 100 – (–273.15)
value set by P0 in microvolts (defaults to 4µV). factor. See "Channel Types" on page 4 and "Channel
should always be shielded (see "Config 1" on page 19). The calibration procedure employs two standards - a Options" on page 5. Frequently, a slope correction based on = 99.544
Magnetic induction of noise from current carrying 2.500V (20ppm/°C) voltage reference and a 100.0Ω a single point calibration point is enough for reasonable The correction can be applied e.g. 5AD590(99.544).
cables or from electrical machines (especially motors (10ppm/°C) reference resistor. You can trim these with accuracy. The pivot point for the slope correction is
and transformers) is a greater problem. Shielded cable P1 and P3 (see "Parameters" on page 11). dependent on the sensor type. * Analog Devices ** National Semiconductor Corp.

Bridges ... wiring configs 13, 14, 15, 16, 17

Introduction and 17 on page 20) with the BGV channel type. This is connection is by three wires as seen in wiring configs. 13 their resistance will change by 2%.
Because of its sensitivity, the Wheatstone bridge circuit termed "voltage excitation". BGV channels expect the and 14 on page 19. One or both of the external resistors To convert the data†aker 's ppm bridge readings to
is a commonly used circuit for the measurement of small bridge excitation voltage V ex to have been previously can be active with full lead resistance compensation. strain use the following formula
changes in electrical resistance. Applications include load sampled in the same schedule by a voltage channel with a 4
µS = k . B out where k = –––––
cells, pressure sensors and strain gauges. BR (bridge reference) channel option e.g. nV(BR). If this is Scaling G.N
not done, the excitation voltage is assumed to be 5.0 volts. The data†aker scales all bridge channel types to a and µS is micro-strain, B out is the data†aker 's bridge
The BGV channel type lets you declare an offset for ratiometric form with units of parts per million channel ( BGV or BGI) result, G is the Gauge Factor and N
R1 R2 each channel, e.g. n BGV(–325) which will subtract 325 is the number of active gauges in the bridge.
Bridge
ppm from the reading. This is useful for zeroing out offsets. Vout . 106 The conversion can be done in the data†aker by
Excitation Vex Reading (B out ) = –––––––– ppm
Bridge Vex applying a polynomial (see page 7) as a channel option:
Voltage
R4 R3 Vout Output Constant Current Excitation where the V out term is measured as a voltage while the Vex Y1=0,k"uStrain" 'Polynomial definition
Voltage
The alternative lead compensation method is to apply a term is measured by a reference channel for voltage 2V(BR) 'Reference Vex channel
constant current (defaults to 2.50mA) to the bridge, excitation but is calculated for constant current excitation. 3BGV(Y1) 'Bridge channel
When one of the four resistors in a bridge is active assuming the bridge resistance is known and constant, and Convert to other engineering units with a Polynomial,
(sensitive to the parameter being measured) the circuit is where k is defined above.
then calculate the excitation voltage V ex. Span or calculations (see page 7).
called a quarter bridge, and the remaining three resistors The following table indicates the data†aker
For full and half bridge constant current excitation use performance for different bridge inputs
are called bridge completion resistors. Similarly, half and full the nBGI( Ra ) channel type where Ra is the bridge arm Strain Gauges
bridges imply two and four active gauges. resistance in ohms. If the arm resistances are not equal Strain gauges change resistance when stretched or Arrangement Excitation Gauge Resolution Range*
The bridge is a ratiometric circuit where the output then a correction must be applied. compressed, and are commonly wired in a bridge. The ohms µS µS
sensitivity is proportional to the excitation voltage. For the full bridge, all four resistors are external to the strain to resistance relationship is BGV full bridge 5V 120 0.07 ±1,500
Unfortunately the excitation voltage is reduced by resistive data†aker (see wiring config. 15 on page 19). One or
∆L 1 ∆R quarter bridge 5V 120 0.26 ±6,000
cable and connector voltage drops. There are two ways the more of these resistors may be active, and the remainder strain = –– = –– . ––
L G R BGI full Bridge 2.5mA 120 0.6 ±12,500
data†aker can resolve this problem. are completion resistors. Four connection wires are quarter bridge 2.5mA 120 2.2 ±50,000
required so that the 4W channel option is required. For where ∆L and L are the length change and initial length, and BGI full Bridge 2.5mA 350 0.2 ±4,300
Voltage Excitation example nBGI(4W,120) defines a four wire constant ∆R and R are the gauge resistance change and initial quarter bridge 2.5mA 350 0.7 ±17,000
The data†aker can measure the excitation voltage at current bridge with an arm resistance of 120 ohms. resistance. G is the Gauge Factor, a measure of the
the bridge and compensate numerically for the voltage loss. For the half bridge, two resistors are external and the sensitivity of the gauge. Typical foil gauges have a Gauge *Note: Exceeding the Range causes a gain change and
This requires a six wire connection (see wiring configs. 16 bridge completion is internal to the data†aker. The Factor of 2.0 which means that if they are stretched by 1% resolution to be reduced by factor of ten.
 Page 18
Sensors 3, Other Subjects
Humidity Measurement ... at low cost ADC Details ... the fundamental measuring process Program "Branching" ... manage flow
Relative humidity is commonly measured by wet bulb The data†aker uses a precision voltage controlled For maximum line hum rejection the conversion time The data†aker has no formal branching or alternative
depression. Two temperature sensors are required, one to oscillator as an analog to digital converter (ADC). An input defaults to one line period of 16.67 or 20.0mS depending processing commands to control program flow. However
measure air temperature and the other the cooling effect of voltage is converted to a frequency and the resulting on the DIP switch country setting (see Appendix). some flow control is possible using Boolean logic or alarms.
a wetted surface. Usually a temperature sensor is encased frequency is measured digitally. This method of conversion Reducing the value of 7SV and 8SV forces the Boolean expressions can be used to return a result that
in a wick extending into a reservoir of distilled water. The provides high linearity, true signal integration and excellent data†aker to sample channels more rapidly. 8SV can is dependent on a condition being true or false as follows
temperature difference between the two sensors is the "wet 50/60 Hz noise rejection. be any value between 48 and 1000 hertz. The penalty for 2CV=(1CV ✽2✽(1CV<100))+(1CV ✽4 ✽(1CV>100))
bulb depression". There are three programmable parameters of the ADC: increasing the line frequency setting is that it reduces
The following program will read two RTD's and compute settling period, conversion time and number of samples per measurement resolution proportionally. which returns a value of 2✽1CV if 1CV is less than 100, or
the relative humidity with an accuracy of a few percent for reading. a value of 4✽1CV if 1CV is greater than or equal to 100.
Extra Samples The Boolean expressions (1CV<100) and (1CV>100)
temperature above 5°C and over most of the relative Settling Period The number of samples per reading is controlled by the will result in 1.0 if true or 0.0 if false. The BASIC language
humidity range. The algorithm assumes that the sensors are
The settling period (the time allowed for the input signal ESn channel option, where n (0 to 15) indicates the equivalent of this expression is
ventilated but not aspirated.
to stabilise before it is measured) is set by 7SV or P10 in number of Extra Samples required. For most channels
Y1=6.1,0.44,0.014,2.71E-4,2.73E-6,2.75E-8 units of milliseconds. This defaults to 10 milliseconds, but types n defaults to 0 indicating no extra samples. The IF 1CV<1000 THEN 2CV=1CV✽ 2
Y2=0,100"%" can range from 0 to 30,000mS. vibrating wire channel type ( FW) defaults to 9, indicating a ELSE 2CV=1CV✽ 4
BEGIN There are two main reasons for adjusting the settling reading of 10 samples (1 plus 9 extra samples). The same branch can also be by a pair of alarms
RA5S period. One is to speed up scanning by reducing the The extra samples are averaged to calculate the
1PT385("Dry bulb",4W,=1CV) settling period. The other is to allow additional time for reading. This process is different to the statistical averaging IF1(1CV<1000)"[2CV=1CVS2]"
2PT385("Wet bulb",4W,=2CV) sensor signals to stabilise. Some sensors require this time function in that the additional samples are taken IF2(1CV>1000)"[2CV=1CVS4]"
3CV(Y1,W)=1CV because of thermal or electrical effects after excitation. It is immediately, before moving on to the next channel. Both However alarms must be used with care when
4CV(Y1,W)=2CV best to change the settling period only for the sensors that averaging methods can yield similar results - significant controlling branching or alternative processing
5CV("RH",Y2,FF1)=(4CV-0.8*(1CV-2CV))/3CV need it by framing the channels in 7SV assignments improvement in resolution and noise performance. • two alarms are required
END
RA10M 1V 7SV=5000 2V 3V 7SV=10 4V How Fast? • the alarm schedule scan rate must be the same as any
The choice of temperature sensors is critical if The net sampling speed of the data†aker is other schedules which use the result
reasonable accuracy is required at high relative humidity where channels 1V and 4V are sampled with the default
dependent on the parameters discussed above, and a • the alarms are executed after other schedules, and so
where the wet bulb depression is small. If platinum RTD's 10mS settling period, while channels 2V and 3V are
number of other factors over which control is limited the result will not be available until the next scan of the
are used as in the above example, then they should have sampled with a settling period of 5000mS or 5 seconds.
other schedules
good accuracy or matching (0.2°C). Note that during the settling period no other Delay Cause To remove
• the standard alarms (e.g. ALARM2 or IF2) execute the
Good accuracy can also be achieved by use of a data†aker activity can take place other than some 40mS overhead per scan fixed action commands each time that the alarm becomes true,
temperature difference sensor such as a thermocouple or communications. Even new commands will not be 5mS overhead in channel selection fixed and not while the alarm remains true
thermopile. Measure the dry bulb with a standard grade processed until the settling period and the scan are ~2mS data return to host (per chan) /r • the repeat alarm (e.g. ALARMR2 or IFR2) continues to
temperature sensor and subtract the difference sensor complete. For long settling periods this can create the 35mS checking input offset voltage /k execute the action commands while the alarm is true
reading to obtain the wet bulb temperature. disturbing impression of a "hung" data†aker. 1000mS auto-calibration /k or P0=1000
Alarms can also be used to activate scan schedules if
The sensors are normally placed within a radiation Conversion Time 15mS checking battery current P15=1 or 2 test conditions are true. For example the RX schedule can
screen to prevent radiant heat affecting the readings. This is The conversion time (the time during which the For the fastest possible scanning, it is best to create a be activated to log data if one of the temperatures exceeds
particularly important for out door applications. data†aker measures the analog input signal) can be set
schedule in which the channels are repeated, for example a threshold as follows
by 8SV or P11 in terms of a frequency. The conversion
time is one full cycle of this frequency i.e. the conversion RA 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V 1V BEGIN
time = 1000/P11 milliseconds. combined with above methods will allow up to 75Hz rates. RX 1..2TK
RZ1M
Counters ... 0 to 65535 and back IFR1(1TK>100.0)OR
IFR2(2TK>100.0)"[X]"
The data†aker has low speed ( n C ) and high speed The digital inputs are sampled every 50mS, or as defined by High Speed Counter Output 1HSCO(mode ) LOGON
(n HSC ) counters. Both are 16 bit, and accept 0 - 30VDC P13 (range 10 - 100mS), and counters increment on High speed counter one has an output terminal that END
and contact closure inputs. Range can be set between 1 negative transitions. If P13 is set towards the lower end of allows the counter to be used as a programmable prescaler The out of range temperatures will be logged at the alarm
and 65535 by channel option, after which counters roll over the range, the logger can become slow in executing other or frequency divider (mode 3), pulse generator (mode 0), or scan rate (RZ1M) when either temperature exceeds 100
to zero. Eg 1C(3) sets range of low speed counter one to tasks. Pulses shorter than P13 mS cannot be counted even a crude analog output (mode 2 with low pass filter). Deg.
3. On the third input pulse the counter will be reset to zero reliably. The low speed counters only operate while the Note: using high speed counter output interferes with the
logger is awake. operation of the counter as a counter.
Input pulse no. 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Counter reading 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 1 2 High Speed Counters n HSC The high speed counter output is set up by:
The high speed counters are hardware counters, tha 1HSCO(mode )=N
Placing Program in FLASH
The reset channel option R can also be used with
counters to reset the counter to zero when it is read in a function when the logger is awake or asleep. They have where mode is the counter mode and N is the counter A data†aker program can be permanently loaded
schedule. For example 3HSC(R) will cause high speed dedicated terminals C1, C2 and C3, increment on positive range (a constant or expression). The following timing into the internal Flash memory. The logger will execute the
counter three to be set to zero after being read. transitions, and count at rates of up to 500Hz. The maximum diagram shows how the output is dependent on the mode program whenever it is powered up or RESET, behaving as
Counters may be initialized by a value or expression count speed is limited by a 1mS debounce circuit. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 a dedicated instrument.
Input See the Application Note "Installing a dataTaker Program in
1C=15 Input to 1HSC pulses
Flash Memory" which is available from your dataTaker
2HSC(10)=1CV/100*SQRT(2CV/3CV) The input to1HSC is determined by P27 as follows mode = 0 N
supplier or from the web site at www.datataker.com
Such assignment (as with all assignments) may be included P27=0 External input via C1, gate permanently enabled 1
mode = 2* N –1
in a schedule to be executed on each scan. P27=1 Internal 32767Hz input, gate is ext signal on C1
mode = 3 N/ 2 N/ 2
P27=2 External input via C1, gate is ext signal on C2
Low Speed Counters nC P27=3 Internal 1024Hz input, gate permanantly enabled mode = 4 N 1
The low speed counters are software counters that * default: 1HSCO(2)=65535
The counter gate is active low, and can be enabled by
share input terminals with the digital inputs D1, D2, D3, etc). contact closure to ground. command issued here e.g. 1HSC0(mode)= N where N =4
 Page 19
Analog Input Configurations 1 ... its all in the wiring
Config 1 Config 5 Config 8a Config 13
Shield ✱ Examples Power ✱
✱ R1 1+V(11,X) Supply +
Examples active
2.500mA Examples
Examples V R2 3+TJ(X,2) I ✱
2I arm 1BGI(120.0)
V 1V R1 R 5-V(X,100) 1..10I Rc 3BGI(I,350)
5F 5L(10) R
R shunt
this line common R2 SE SE Ref – (10 to 100Ω) Rc can be a bridge completion resistor (for the
The optional Shield is necessary when the signal to other channels R same value as the active arm) located near the
source has a high output impedance or when noise attenuation = (R1+R2)/R2 G Ground
Note: Common mode voltage limits must be adhered logger, or preferably an active arm of the bridge.
pick-up from other (especially power) cables is a This configuration compensates for lead
This configuration is useful for high voltage to for correct operation. For models with CMOS
problem. A Guard (not shown) connected to the multiplexers this is ±4 volts relative to data†aker resistance, and in the case of a half bridge,
differential input and situations where high accidental
excite (✱) terminal can help reduce the effects of temperature compensation. For quarter bridge 120Ω
voltages are likely. For maximum common mode ground.
cable leakage and capacitance (see "Glossary" on foil strain gauge the resolution is 2µStrain. The
page 23).
rejection match the attenuator pads. Differential Current Input with
configuration is also useful to read the position of
Differential Input Attenuated Input with External Shunt the wiper of a potentiometer. The channel factor is
External Reference set to the potentiometer's resistance ( ≤ 5KΩ) eg
2BGI(I,2000).
Config 9 Three Wire, Half and
Config 2 Config 6 R1
✱ Quarter Bridge Input
Examples ✱ Examples
✱ Examples 1V(10)
R
2R(4W)
1+V V R2
5V(100) 3R(4W,I)
3✱AS close to GND 5PT392(4W)
R R
V1 V2 V3 R 1-..3+TK atten. = (R1+R2)/R2 Config 14
Attenuated voltage inputs for situations where one
signal line is always close to ground potential. Four Wire Resistance Input
link
✱ Examples
1..5BGI(350)
Half Attenuated Differential Input 4BGI
The excite terminal (✱ )cannot be used as a single
ended input on the DT50. Config 10 R 2BGI(Y1)
Config 7
Single Ended Inputs Power ✱ link
✱ Examples
✱
Examples
Supply + R 1R
I 1#I
1#..10#I
2R(I)
R 3PT385
Config 3 R 5#L Rc R
– G Three Wire Resistance Input To other To other channel
Ground
✱ Examples
bridges R terminals
You can combine this arrangement with the
1-V(X)
External Shunts arrangement to give four single
V1 V2 V3 2+..5-F(X)
ended current channels for each full differential
Config 11 The bridge completion resistor is shared between
R 5+LM35(X) channels. Its value is equal to the nominal value of
channel ✱ the "unknown" resistor. The configuration is similar
Examples
Single Ended Current Input with link to Config 11 - no reference channel is needed.
SE SE Ref
R 3R
Internal Shunt 1..5R Multiple Three Wire,
The excite terminal (✱) cannot be used as a single link * 4PT385
R Quarter Bridge Inputs
ended input on the DT50. Config 8
Single Ended Inputs with * You can get lead compensation by replacing the
External Reference lower link with a resistor of value equal to the total
I1 I2 I3 lead resistance. This configuration is recommended
only for resistances > 500Ω
Config 15
Config 4 + ✱ Examples Two Wire Resistance Input 2.500mA
Power 1*..1-I(X)
R1
Supply
✱ Examples
5+L(X)
✱ Examples 3BGI(4W)
V - R 6-AD590(X) Config 12 Bridge 4BGI(120,4W)
Shunt

Shunt

Shunt

1V(10)
R1 5V(II,Y3)
R2 R2 3TJ(2) G Ground ✱ R
attenuation = (R1+R2)/R2 R 5+V(100) R1 n R(4W) Examples
"bus bar" 5R(4W)
SE SE Ref 5-R(II)
Attenuated voltage inputs let you measure large
voltages, extend the common mode range and R2 n -R R
To avoid cross channel coupling, connect the
provides greater input protection. Differential or The bridge is powered by the 2.500mA constant
bottom of the shunts with the minimum of shared
single ended measurement is possible. The measurement current passes through both current source, resulting in readings independent of
resistance to the SE ref. take-off point.
For sensors with built-in amplification the resistors. By definition nR(4W) and n -R will lead length (resistance). This arrangement has a
The excite terminal ( ✱ ) cannot be used as a
attenuation factor can be less than unity, or measure R1 and R2 respectively. This configuration sensitivity of approximately 1 ppm per active arm.
single ended input on the DT50.
negative for a sign reversal. does not provide lead compensation for R2.
Single Ended Current with Full Bridge, Constant Current
Attenuated Input External Shunt Mixed Resistance Input
Excitation
 Page 20
Analog Input Configurations 2 ... its all in the wiring Digital Configurations Wiring Index
Config 16 Config 19 Config 22
Bridge Supply AD590, AD592 18
3D Examples
LM335 ✱ Examples Digital 1..4DS Attenuated Differential Voltage Input 4, 6
✱ Reference adj 50K
10K
4D inputs 3C(R) Attenuated Single Ended Voltage Input 5
+
2LM335
channel 2+LM335 1PE
- Cal. link G
e.g. 10K Ground
Bottom view R 2V(2,V) Bridge - 3 wire, Half and Quarter 13, 14
R 3V(BR,N)
Bridge The digital and counter inputs both employ Bridge - 4 wire, Full, Constant Current 15
optional potentiometer Bridge - 6 wire, Full, Voltage Excitation 16, 17
✱ Measurement 10KΩ pull-up resistors to 5 volts, allowing the use of
channel e.g. With internal sensor power as illustrated, the voltage free contacts. The thresholds are <1.5V for
5BGV(N) upper response is limited to approx. 70°C. External a "0" and >3.5V for a "1". During sleep mode the Copper RTD 9, 10, 11, 12
2BGV(108) power should be current limited. digital inputs are inoperative, however the high Counter Input - Low Speed 22
R speed counters remain active.
Be aware of self heating effects - a 500µA sensor Counter Input - High Speed 22
current can cause 1.5°C error. A fourth wire to the Example above also shows wiring for the one
G Ground phase encoder up-down counter. Current Input with External Shunt 8, 8a
sensor's negative pin in place of the link will improve
accuracy. Single ended input as in Config's 2 & 3.
Current Input with Internal Shunt 7
The (external) bridge supply should not exceed
Digital and Counter Input Current Loop 4 - 20mA , External Shunt 8, 8a
2.5V unless the reference channel input is LM335 Temperature Input
attenuated. Current Loop 4 - 20mA , Internal Shunt 7
The difference between six and four wire
Config 23
connection is the location of the reference channel
1 Differential Voltage Input 1, 4
measurement point - at the bridge or at the logger. +
2
Digital Digital Input 22
Output / Digital Input on an Analog Input 25
Six (& Four) Wire, Ratiometric 3 Input Digital Output 23, 24
Bridge Input 4
Config 20 Power -
Supply Frequency Input 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 25
Config 17 G Ground
✱
LM34 out+ Examples The bidirectional digital channels can sink 200mA
5V 5V switched
LM35 - 10mV/°F or link 5LM35 from up to a 30 volt supply. The solid state switch is Guard Screening 1
10mV/°C 5+LM35 not protected against sustained over currents.
SE SE Ref Bottom view R
of TO92 case For inductive loads parallel reverse diodes are LED on Digital Output 24
Rc ✱ Reference recommended although not essential because the LM34, LM35 20
channel data†aker has internal transient protection.
This configuration limits the sensor's lower range LM335 19
Bridges e.g. to approx. 10°F and 10°C for the LM34 and LM35 Relay Connection - Externally Powered
R 1V(BR,2) respectively due to the lack of a pull-down capacity.
Nickel RTD 9, 10, 11, 12
Rc Accuracy is improved if the link is replaced by a Config 24
G Ground fourth wire to the sensor's negative pin. Without the
5V 5V switched Phase (with AC Option) 2, 4
link the sensor is read as a single ended input as in
✱ Measurement
Config's 2 & 3. Sensor power may be externally 330Ω Phase Encoder 22
channels
e.g. derived (eg 5V) to free the Excite terminal. 1 Example Platinum RTD 9, 10, 11
2*BGV(N,X,23) LED 2 Digital 3DSO=1 Potentiometer 13
R LM34 & LM35 Temperature Input 3 I/O
3+BGV(N,X)
4 Relay on Digital Output 24
This is a combination of Config 1 for the reference
channel and Config 3 for measurement channels. The internal 5V switched (off in sleep mode) supply Resistance Input - 2 wire 11,12
The half bridge completion resistors Rc are best is limited to approximately 100mA. The saturation Resistance Input - 3 wire 10
located near the active bridge arms, however they can ON voltage drop of the switches is 1 volt so the relays Resistance Input - 4 wire 9
be located at the logger must be able to activate at 4 volts over the expected
temperature range.
Half and Quarter Bridge, Config 21 Relay and LED Connection Single Ended Voltage Input 2, 4
Ratiometric Input with Shared Half 2K2* Internally Powered Single Ended Voltage, External Ref. 3, 5
Bridge Completion LM34 out+ ✱ Examples
LM35 - Thermistor 9, 10, 11,12
2LM35 Config 25
Bottom view 10K 5V(V) Thermocouple 1, 2, 3
Config 18 1N914's R 1KΩ ✱ Examples
5+AS(II)
✱ 5–AS
Vibrating Wire Sensors 1, 2
AD590 Examples This arrangement allows full range measurement. Voltage Input 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
AD592 2#AD590 Multiple single ended sensor connection (Config 3) R 3AS(1500)
1µA/°K 2#I(V) is possible by connecting the LM35 negative pins to Externally Internally
Bottom view of R SE ref. The diodes can be shared. Sensor power powered powered
metal can version Note: the number references relate to the
can also be derived from external sources. The power source must be able to provide
Note: Sensor power can be any 4 to 12 volt source. wiring configuration.
The above arrangement is equivalent to Config 7.
* This resistor may be needed to prevent sensor sufficient voltage to exceed the Analog States's
oscillation with long leads. See manufacturer's data threshold which defaults to 2500mV. Ensure input
Differential and single ended wiring (Config's 1 & 2)
(National Semiconductor Corp.) for more details. voltages do not exceed thge data†aker common
with external shunts may be used. mode range.
AD590 Temperature Input LM34 & LM35 Temperature Input Digital Input via Analog Inputs
 Page 21
Error Messages ... help!
Introduction
The data†aker returns a message when it detects an Error messages can be switched off by the /m switch. The Errors that are a result of reading a channel will cause a Errors that occur as a result of reading an alarm channel
error in a command, an error in an input channel, or an default is for errors to be reported ( /M). During an Unload value of 99999.9 to be returned or logged as the reading. This are reported in the same way as data channels, and the alarm
operational difficulty. The form of the error report is controlled operation (see "Data Logging and Retrieval" page 8), error value is not modifiable by format channel options. Channel condition automatically becomes true.
by the /U switch. The default is the verbose form shown in the reporting is disabled until the Unload is complete. In a Network, errors are normally carried through calculations and statistical The table below lists all of the data†aker errors, and an
table below. If the switch is set to /u the error message is errors in remote data†akers are reported back to the host evaluations so that they also return 99999.9. The carry through explanation of their likely cause and correction.
reduced to an error number (e.g. E3). (Note this Switch also computer. can be disabled by the / j switch (see "Switches" on page 11).
reduces the verbosity of other returned data).
Error Category Error Category Error Category

R or n

R or n

R or n
C d .

C d .

C d .
e

e
an r No

an r No

an r No
em io

em io

em io
ar

ar

ar
ar g

ar g

ar g
ea y

ea y

ea y
se

se

se
H din

H din

H din
O tax

O tax

O tax
M rat

M rat

M rat
dw

dw

dw
ro

ro

ro
au

au

au
pe

pe

pe
n

n
Er

Er

Er
Sy

Sy

Sy
E1–time set error ———————————————— ✶ E17–clear card data ————————————— ✶ ✶ E41–program area full ——————————— ✶ ✶
• must be in format defined by P39 and P40 • inserted card has data in data area • attempt to store >4090 program char’s in card
• illegal separator or non-digits entered E42–no card inserted ———————————— ✶ ✶ ✶
E2–input buffer full ————————————— ✶ ✶ ✶ E18–STATUS command error ———————— • no memory card inserted into card socket
• command too long (maximum 250 characters) • STATUS incorrectly entered • memory card not fully inserted
• successive commands input too quickly • STATUS n outside the range 1 to 9 • memory card battery discharged
E3–channel option error —————————— ✶ E19–Card Write Protected ———————— ✶ ✶ • memory card failure
• illegal channel option used – see page 5 • Move card write protect switch to unprotected E43–RS485 chip failure —————————— ✶
• mutually exclusive options used E20–illegal character(s) ———————— • RS485 Network interface hardware has failed
E4–clear data memory ————————————— ✶ ✶ • invalid characters in the command • return logger for service
• attempt to enter new Schedule while the E21–illegal separator(s) ———————— ✶ E44–network transmission error —— ✶ ✶
store contains data, or LOGON is enabled • commands not separated by spaces or return • network integrity is failing
E5–data memory full —————————————— ✶ ✶ E22–statistical option error ———— ✶ • a logger on the network has failed
• internal data storage memory is full • statistical option not in each multiple report • network traffic heavy
• overwrite switch not enabled ( /O) E23–scan schedule error ————————— ✶ E45–remote logger not found or
E6–data memory empty ————————————— ✶ • Schedule ID not A, B, C, D, S , X or Z network failure ————————————— ✶ ✶
• no data in internal or card memory • scan time interval too large (i.e. >65535) • there is no logger with address specified
E7–day set error ————————————————— ✶ • scan interval type invalid (i.e. S, M, H, D) • logger at address specified has failed
• illegal day number entered • event or counter channels invalid • local logger not connected to the network
E8–Parameter read/set error —————— ✶ E24–Unload command error ———————— ✶ • network cable is broken or wiring error
• parameter index out of range • Schedule ID is not one of A, B, C, D or X E46–ROM checksum error —————————— ✶ ✶
• parameter value out of range E25–channel table full —————————— ✶ ✶ • ROM has failed checksum test
E9–Switch error —————————————————— ✶ • internal acquisition and alarm table filled • Datataker may behave strangely
• missing switch command character • additional channels cannot be declared • return logger for service
• illegal switch command character E26–Halt command error —————————— ✶ E47–user string error ———————————
E10–command error ———————————————— ✶ • Schedule ID not A, B, C, D or Z • incorrect declaration $=“text”
• CARDID, CLEAR, CLAST, CDATA, CSCANS, E27–TEST command error —————————— ✶ E48–channel list fixed —————————— ✶ ✶
CALARMS, CPROG, LOGOFF, LOGON or • TEST incorrectly entered • channel list has been secured (fixed) by /F
RESET incorrectly entered • TEST n where n is outside the range 1 to 2 • enter /f to enable changes
E11–input(s) out of range ———————— ✶ ✶ E28–Go command error ———————————— ✶ E51–ALARM command error ————————— ✶
• one or more analog inputs is over range • Schedule ID not A, B, C, D or Z • alarm number out of range defined by P30
• check common mode voltage E29–poly/span declaration error — ✶ • setpoint character <, >, <> or >< missing
E12–channel list error ——————————— ✶ • polynomial or span index out of range (1 to 20) • AND, OR, XOR incorrectly entered
• channel number outside the legal range • individual terms not separated by a comma • setpoint not specified or too large
• diff. and SE channels mixed in sequence • range of terms outside 1.0e–18 to 1.0e18 • delay incorrectly specified
• options invalid for channel type E30–calibration failure nn —————— ✶ ✶ E52–alarm text memory full —————— ✶ ✶
• incomplete channel sequence • internal error during self calibration • memory for storage of alarms text is filled
• invalid channel type • nn identifies the cause of the failure • cannot specify additional alarm strings
• single ended channels illegally specified E31–test channel failure nn ————— ✶ E53–no statistical samples —————— ✶ ✶
• polynomials or spans specified for day or time • return logger for service • no statistical sample taken so cannot
• polynomials or spans index out of range E32–battery sample failure —————— ✶ calculate statistical function
E13–digital failure —————————————— ✶ ✶ • return logger for service E54–expression error ———————————— ✶
• digital input – output circuit has failed E33–CSIO bus failure ———————————— ✶ • syntax error
• return logger for service • CEM or Display cable too long • expression too complex
E14–communications error ————————— ✶ • return logger for service E55–expression memory full —————— ✶ ✶
• baud rate, parity or stop bit errors E34–function key command error —— ✶ • total expression(s) text > 3847 characters
• framing errors due to noise on COMS port • bad declaration of function key • reduce number of expressions
E15–assignment error ————————————— ✶ E35–Card Faulty ————————————————— E60–RAM n failure ——————————————— ✶ ✶
• channel number too large • card may have an electrical fault • RAM number n has failed self test
• output channel or system variable out of range E36–CLAST not valid ————————————— ✶ • may cause strange behaviour and data loss
• counter preset to value greater than maximum • due to use of schedule UNLOAD ✶ • return logger for service
count i.e. 1C(25)=30 E38–address error ——————————————— ✶ E61–memory card failure ————————— ✶ ✶
E16–linearization error ————————— ✶ ✶ •Network address out of range (0 to 31) • replace battery
• thermocouple outside range E40–no data found —————————————— ✶ • replace card (memory card is not serviceable)
• RTD or thermistor outside linearization range •No logged data to unload in specified time interval
 Page 22
Simplified Circuit ... the guts of the data†aker
Sensor Excitation Selector. Selection is 3 volts
generally automatic but can be forced by the Two precision current
I, II, V or G channel options (see page 5) sources are available Internal battery 6.9V Regulator with temperature
for resistance and on some
Input multiplexer compensation to match the
5 volts bridge measurements models
Power Supply charging requirements of 6V
2.5mA (II)
Input channels are a as well as for lead-acid gel cells.
four wire connection 250µA ( I) powering sensors
1kΩ

Selector
+5V +5V
with five switched lines.
excite ✶ 5V (V) or custom
Each channel can be
Guard signal combat 6.9V
split into 2 to 4 single + input + guard (G)
ended channels. the effects of cable AC/DC
The maximum voltage – input – capacitance and +5V 1mF
allowed on any terminal leakage on high +5V
return R
is ±3.5 volts relative to impedance signal 0.22Ω
Input termination sources
ground. Exceeding Com. External Battery
100.0Ω 1M resistors can be Protection
these limits is likely to
cause measurement
0.1%
1M
switched in by the T Gnd.
Circuit
+Lead
channel option or out
errors.
by the U option –5V –5V
+
Alkaline
Special signal Switched 6.9 volt line
–
excite ✶ conditioning (off in sleep mode)
connector (for +5V 5Vsw
+ input + Vibrating Wire

Selector
support etc) 5V switched for
– input – sensor power
Ground is locally
return R
sampled
Caution - To avoid damage use 6 Volt
100.0Ω Precision lead acid battery only, ensure correct
0.1% + Voltage to Programmable polarity before connecting the battery
The SE Ref. terminal can be Frequency Time-base &
internally routed to the negative - Converter Frequency
input of the instrumentation Counters The VFC frequency is measured over
SE ref. one line period (16.67 or 20mS) to

Selector
amplifier by using the X
channel option for single ended maximise "hum" and noise rejection
inputs. This can provide many Instrumentation Amplifier VFC by-pass for direct (see "8SV" etc. on page 6)
of the benefits of differential with auto gain select (the frequency measurement
Ground Av=1
input for single ended input. + GL n channel option Network is not on all models
Network
R allows manual selection -

0.1%
– 1,10 &100 – see page 5) 64180
Microprocessor
Network
RS485
+
The ground terminals should not R
be used for signal referencing
0.1%
Not shown in the simplified circuit
are the calibration facilities and
with 9MHz clock interface –
except for current return paths.
Grounds can be electrically noisy Precision three wire hardware testing arrangements.
and have an offset relative to the 5V Schmitt input buffer compensation circuit for These compensate for all offsets,
Pull-up resistor resistance measurement and
Return terminals. with threshold approx. leakages, component tolerances
2 volts half bridge completion for and drifts due to aging and
100KΩ bridge measurements temperature changes 7

High Speed Counter 100KΩ 8

Three 16 bit counters. These
Channels ~ 2V threshold
82C54 style counters

are fully operational while the RS232 9

(see HSC on page 4) Counter 1 logger sleeps although COMMS
rollovers are not detected. 6
1HSC has a square wave overflow Port
2.2KΩ Interface 5
output that can be applied to the Counter 2
RS232
input of another counter. The This capacitor provides input COMMS 4 Rx
1HSCO=n output channel 5V filtering and limits count rate to Port
assignment sets the counter's Pull-up resistor Counter 3
approx. 1KHz. (If it is removed The digital inputs are sampled Interface
divisor to n (with n = 1 to 65,535). 3 Tx
500KHz is possible). every debounce period (see
15KΩ "P13" on page 11) which Common 1 Interface
defaults to 50mS. No sampling ground
Digital Input (DS and DB) 100KΩ
occurs while the logger sleeps.
- Output (DSO and DBO) Isolation 2
The (low speed) Counters are
and (low speed) Counter 30V Digital interface
Zener protection implemented in software.
(C and UDC) Channels circuit
on outputs Electrical isolation to 500V RS232
~ 2V threshold for input Ground
(see page 4) COMMS
Port

Output driver -200mA at 30V max,

1.0V saturation
 Page 23
Glossary ... what it means!

Actuator – a device which converts a voltage or current Differential Input – the two wire input is not referenced PID – Proportional, Integral, Derivative. A three mode ASCII - Decimal Equivalents
input into a mechanical output. to a system ground and is essentially floating. control algorithm commonly used in industrial control. A PID (special characters only)
loop with two state output can be programmed on the
+
Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) – a device which V in Datataker using the difference, integration and calculation

n
tio

tio
– facilities.

al

al
es l
converts a smoothly varying signal to a quantised digital

tro

ip

ip
im

im

II
II

cr

cr
SC
V out

SC

on
value. Linearity, resolution, noise rejection and speed are

ec

ec

es
A
C
A
D

D
Port – a communications connector on a computer or

D
important characteristics.
Ground 0 NUL null 38 &
other device.
Auto-Ranging – the process of changing amplifier gain The common mode range limits must considered. 1 SOH ^A 39 '
2 STX ^B 40 (
automatically so that the signal is amplified as much as is RAM – Random Access Memory - Memory that allows data
possible without exceeding output limits. Ground Loop – more often that not, grounds in a system to be read or written at a particular location without having to
3 EXT ^C 41 )
are not at the same electrical potential. Differences may be 4 EOT ^D 42 *
pass sequentially through preceding locations.
from microvolts to many volts. If signal wires are used to 5 ENQ ^E 43 +
Auto-Zero – a stabilisation method for removing errors
connect grounds, then ground currents will flow and 6 ACK ^F acknowledge 44 , comma
due to a drift in the input offset of a measuring system. ROM – Read Only Memory - Memory that can be randomly 7 BEL ^G bell 45 –
unpredictable errors will occur. This situation is referred to as
read but not written. 8 BS ^H backspace 46 . period
a ground loop. See page 18.
Bridge – providing input offset and potentially temperature 9 HT ^I tab 47 /
compensation, bridges are a sensitive and stable means to Settling Time – The time allowed for an input signal to 10 LF ^J line feed 48 0
measure small changes in resistances. They are particularly Guard – an actively driven shield around input signal stabilise after selection and gain changing. (See P10 on 11 VT ^K vertical tab 49 1
useful when applied to strain gauges as found in pressure conductors that is maintained at the common mode voltage page 10 and 7SV on page 6). 12 FF ^L form feed 50 2
sensors and load cells. Four elements connected in a circular of the input signal. Signal guarding is used when a sensor
13 CR ^M carriage return 51 3
fashion. has a high output impedance and cable capacitance and
Single-ended Input – the input is referenced to a 14 SO ^N 52 4
insulation leakage are significant. The diagram below is an
system ground or other signal common. 15 SI ^O 53 5
extension to Config. 1 on page 18 and shows a full guard
16 DLE ^P 54 6
Z1 Z2 and shield implementation: + 17 DC1 ^Q xon 55 7
V in
Excitation Guard Shield – 18 DC2 ^R 56 8

Z4 Z3
✱ Examples V out 19 DC3 ^S xoff 57 9
V out 2V(G) 20 DC4 ^T 58 : colon
V 5F(G) Ground 21 NAK ^U not acknowledge 59 ; semicolon
In a multi-channel system only one input terminal is needed 22 SYN ^V 60 <
R 23 ETB ^W 61 =
Arms of the bridge may be "active" sensors or "passive" for in addition to the shared common terminal
24 CAN ^X 62 >
bridge "completion" and "nulling". 25 EM ^Y 63 ?
Input Bias Current – The input terminals of the RTD – Resistance Temperature Detector - A resistive
26 SUB ^Z 64 @
Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) – a instrumentation amplifier require a very small current. This sensor that changes resistance with changes in temperature
27 ESC ^[ escape 91 [
measure of the influence of common mode voltage on the current can be sourced via input termination resistors or by - see page 15.
28 FS ^| 92 \
output of the instrumentation amplifier. the signal source. If a source for this current is not provided 29 GS ^] 93 ]
V cm then measurement errors will occur. Resolution – is defined as the number of bits that the 30 RS ^^ 94 ^
CMRR = 20 log (––––––––) ADC uses to represent the analog signal. The greater the
V out x Av 31 US ^_ 95 _ underline
where V cm is an applied common mode voltage Input Noise – unwanted voltage or current generally with resolution the smaller the changes in the input signal that 32 space 96 `
Vout is the resulting output voltage an AC component superimposed on the wanted signal. can be resolved. 33 ! 98 b " (alarms)
Av is the amplifier's voltage gain 34 " 123 {
LED – Light Emitting Diode. Sample Speed – is the maximum rate at which analog to 35 # 124 |
Common Mode Voltage – is the average of the digital conversions can be done. This must include any 36 $ 125 }
voltages between the measurement system's ground and the LSB – least significant bit in a byte. channels selection time, settling time (for the signal to 37 % 126 ~
two input terminals: stabilise) and processing time (if required). 127 DEL delete
Monolithic Sensors – sensors that are constructed on
V in + a single piece of silicon using integrated circuit fabrication Shield – a conductor surrounding input signal wires that is
(= V 2 – V1) – techniques. Available sensors include those for measuring generally connected to a data logger's ground. The purpose
temperature (see page 16), pressure, acceleration and is to shield the input signal from capacitively coupled 4-20mA Loop – a common measurement standard in
V1 V2 V out
electrical noise. Such a shield provides little protection from
V CM = V 1 + V2 concentration of various compounds in gases and liquids.
——— industry. A transmitter controls a current in the range of 4 to
2 Ground magnetically induced noise. 20mA as a function of a measurement parameter. Any
MSB – most significant bit in a byte. receiver(s) or indicator(s) placed in series can output a
The term only has meaning for differential inputs. Thermocouple – a temperature sensing device reading of the parameter. Prime advantage is two wire
constructed from dissimilar metals. See page 15. connection and high immunity to noise pick-up. Generally
Data Acquisition – the process of scanning a range of Multiplexer – is a device used to increase the number of
channels by sequentially routing multiple channels to a single powered from a 24 volts supply.
analog and digital channels, converting to digital format and
signal processing system. Transducer – a device which converts a physical
forwarding to a host system. parameter such as temperature into an electrical voltage or
50 / 60 Hz Rejection – The most common source of
current. It is usually a sensor with additional electronics for
Data Logging – is a data acquisition system with Phase Encoder – a position sensor with two digital noise is that induced by AC power cables. This noise is
signal conditioning and scaling.
output lines with a quadrature phase relationship that provide periodic at the line frequency. Datatakers are able to reject
on-board data storage facilities.
distance and direction information. most of this type of noise by integrating the input for exactly
Voltage to Frequency Converter – a device which
one line cycle period (20.0 or 16.7mS).
data†aker – the best little data-logger in the world! 3D converts an analog voltage into a train of digital pulses with a
First appeared in 1983 as the data†aker DT100, then the 4D frequency proportional to the input voltage. The frequency is
DT200 in 1987, then the DT50, DT500, DT600 series in count + + – – + then measured digitally. This method (which is used by the
1990, which was revised in1996 and 2002, and then the data†aker ) provides integration over the sampling time
The data†aker uses an up-down counter to provide the
DT800 in 2000 . . . and good noise rejection.
position indication.
 Page 24
Appendix — data†aker DT 50

Introduction Country Setting

COMMS Port also page 13 RS232 COMMS Dip Switch Country s1 The Country Setting determines the
Each model in the data†aker data logger range has a The data†aker 50 RS232 COMMS Port is Shown set to the US (60Hz) on default integration period (16.7mS
number of characteristics that differentiate it from the other serial RS232 compatible. The output signal level is factory defaults for US and 20mS for others) for the
models. This Appendix describes these characteristics for the approximately ±4 Volts, allowing communications 5
Other (50Hz) off
N/C analog to digital converter, and the
data†aker 50. over distances in access 100 meters at 1200 baud. N/C 9 default date format (see "Date" on
Greater distances are possible at 300 baud. The 4 RxD page 6).
Analog Inputs maximum practical distance is also dependent on N/C 8
• 5 differential or 10 single ended, can be used in any mix. the host computer's RS232 characteristics. (Note: 3 TxD
• Sampling rate 25 samples/sec the RS232 "standard" specifies 2000pF maximum N/C 7 Baud Rate s2 s3 s5 Add. Range Baud Rate and Address
• Input impedance 1MΩ, or >100 MΩ selectable 2 N/C off off x The data†aker 50 RS232
cable capacitance, and no maximum distance). 1200 0 - 15
• Common mode range ±3.5 VDC N/C 6 off on off COMMS port baud rate must match
The data†aker 50 RS232 COMMS Port is Interface 9600 0-7
1 ON that of the host computer. See
• Common mode rejection >90 db (110 db typical) electrically isolated to 500V. 300 off on on 0-7
Ground "COMMS Port" on page 13. If either
• Series mode line rejection >35 db 2400 on off x 0 - 15
• Sensor excitation of 4.5V, 250.0µA or 2.500mA each channel. 1 23 45 67 8 on on x 300 or 9600 baud is selected, the
4800 0 - 15
• Full, half and quarter bridges, voltage or current excitation. logger address range is reduced to
x = don't care 0 -7.
• Multiplexer type: solid state (CMOS)
Analog Input
For each analog input type, the data†aker 50 provides Memory Card Socket
Channels 1 to 4 RS232 COMMS √ AA Lithium Battery
three decade ranges which are selected automatically: Port (Isolated) on lower circuit board Mux Power s4 Multiplexer Power
permanent on The power consumption of the
Input Type Channels Range Units Resolution
data†aker 50 can be kept to a
Diff SE switched off
minimum if the input multiplexer is
DC Voltage 5 10 ±25 mV 1µV *+ 1
*+ 5 Analog Input
1 23 45 67 8
powered down while the logger is in the sleep state. For
±250 mV 10µV – – ON the data†aker 50 this is set using DIP switch s4.
±2500 mV 100µV R R
The factory preset is for the multiplexers to power
+5 volts switched
DC Current 5 15 ±0.25 mA
±2.5 mA
200nA
1µA
*+ 2 1 down while the data†aker 50 ais sleep. The current
– 2 Height: saving is approximately 150µA, which is current draw of
±25. mA 10µA R 3 Digital I/O - no memory card 50mm the 4 CMOS multiplexer integrated circuits (CD4052).
Resistance 5 10 10 Ohms 0.5mΩ 110 mm 4 75 mm
100 Ohms 5mΩ
*+ 3 5 – memory card 105mm See "Multiplexer Powering" on page 15.
– Ground Weight: 1.5kg
500 Ohms 50mΩ R 1
7000 Ohms 500mΩ 1(out)
Frequency 5 10 0.1-20,000 Hz 0.01% *+ 4 2 Counters Power 1
Address s5 data†aker 50 Address
– 3 AC/DC Battery s6 s7 s8
Diff refers to differential or double ended channels, and SE refers R Ground G ~~ +–+ 0 off off off off The data†aker 50 can be
to single ended channels (see "Glossary" on page 23). SE ref Wake 1 off off off on given an address, despite the fact
2 off off on off that the logger does not support
Digital Inputs and Outputs 3 off off on on networking.
• 5 TTL/CMOS compatible digital input channels for digital state, AC/DC 4 off on off off The address of a data†aker
Convert Display
digital events, low speed counters (10 Hz, 16 bit, presettable). Power Alkaline Lead Acid 5 off on off on 50 can be used for
Single Ended Lamp Connector
Digital input terminals are shared with digital output channels Input 9V 6V 6 off on on off ◆ identification in the STATUS or
Reference STATUS1 commands (see
• 5 Digital open collector outputs rated to 200mA at 30V 7 off on on on
250 mm "STATUS" on page 10)
• 3 high speed counters, (1KHz or 1MHz, 16 bit, presettable). 8 on off off off
◆ identification of returned data if

See text to right

• All analog channels may also be used as digital inputs, with a 270 mm 9 on off off on
user definable threshold. Caution - To avoid damage use 6 Volt 10 on off on off /L Address Switch is enabled (see
lead acid battery only, ensure correct 11 on off on on "Swityches - /L" on page11)
Input Type Channels Range
polarity before connecting the battery 12 on on off off If 300 or 9600 baud rate is
Digital Bit 5 0 or 1 State 13 on on off on selected, then the address range is
Digital Nibble 1 0 to 31 State limited to 0 - 7.
LS counter 5 65535 Counts
6.9V Switch Mode Wiring Power Wiring Battery 14 on on on off
Regulator 15 on on on on
HS counter 3 65535 Counts (–9.2mV/°C)

Power Supply and Battery also page 15 AC/DC ~ 6.9V ~ +

Power ~ Alkaline + Power Consumption
The data†aker 50 can be powered as follows ~ ~ Bat. – The data†aker 50 will consume very little power
Source Range + Terminal – Terminal 1000µF –
9-18Vac Gnd if it is allowed to sleep. Less power is consumed if the
AC 9 – 18Vac AC/DC~ AC/DC~ 6.2–10V Lead + data†aker 50 is powered through the battery
External Battery Protection 0.22Ω terminals, rather than through the AC/DC terminals,
DC 11 – 24Vdc AC/DC~ AC/DC~ Circuit External AC Power
Connections External Alkaline Battery because the battery charger circuit draws additional
DC 11 – 24Vdc AC/DC~ Gnd
9V Alkaline Battery 6.2 – 10Vdc Alkaline + Bat. – Lead + current, especially if it is charging a depleted battery.
6V Gel Cell Battery 5.6 – 8Vdc Lead + Bat. – 11-24Vdc
Alkaline + Power Source Condition Current (typical)
Bat – +
The external 6 Volt gel cell connection provides temperature
compensated charging with voltage (6.90V) and current (1A)
~ – battery awake 100mA
Alkaline + DC Bat. – battery sleep 0.36mA
limiting for a three cell battery, when an external AC or DC power
supply is also connected. –
~ + Lead + AC/DC awake 105mA
Gnd Gnd. 5.6–8V AC/DC awake & charging 600mA
When the data†aker 50 is powered by a 9V alkaline Gnd
or AC/DC sleep 5mA
battery and an external AC or DC source, the 6.9V regulator's AC/DC sleep & charging 500mA
(see schematic) output is increased to 10V so that power is External DC Power External Gel Cell Battery
drawn from the external source in preference to the battery. Simplified Power Supply Schematic
 Page 25
Appendix — data†aker DT 500 and DT 600
6.9V Switch Mode
Introduction RS232 COMMS Port also page 13 Power Supply and Battery Regulator
(–9.2mV/°C)
Each model in the data†aker data logger range has a The data†aker 500 and data†aker 600 RS232 The data†aker 500 and 600 can be powered by
number of characteristics that differentiate it from the other COMMS Port is serial RS232 compatible. The output signal Source Range +Terminal –Terminal AC/DC ~ 6.9V
models. This Appendix describes the characteristics for the level is approximately ±4 Volts, allowing communications over Power
data†aker 500 and the data†aker 600 distances in access 100 meters at 1200 baud. Greater AC 9 – 18Vac AC/DC~ AC/DC~ ~
distances are possible at 300 baud. The maximum practical DC 11 – 24Vdc AC/DC~ AC/DC~ 1000µF
• 10 analog and 7 digital channels DC 11 – 24Vdc AC/DC~ Gnd
• Network support distance is also dependent on the host computer's RS232
characteristics. (Note: the RS232 "standard" specifies 2000pF 9V Alkaline Battery 6.2 – 10Vdc Alkaline + Bat. – External Battery Protection Lead +
• Channel expansion socket Circuit 0.22Ω
maximum cable capacitance, and no maximum distance). 6V Gel Cell Battery 5.6 – 8Vdc Lead + Bat. – Connections
Bat. –
The data†aker 500 and data†aker 600 RS232 The gel cell connection provides temperature compensated
Analog Inputs COMMS Port is electrically isolated to 500V. charging with voltage (6.90V) and current (1A) limiting for a
Bat +
Alkaline +
• 10 differential or 30 single ended, can be used in any mix. three cell battery, when an AC or DC supply is also connected. Bat –
• Sampling rate 25 samples/sec It is not recommended to connect both an internal and an
• Linearity <0.05%
• Input impedance 1MΩ, or >100 MΩ selectable
RS232 COMMS Connector external 6V/9V battery. Better that the external battery is a Gnd Gnd.
larger capacity 12V battery connected as External DC Power.
• Common mode range ±3.5 Vdc
• Common mode rejection >90 db (110 db typical) 1 Alkaline + + 1 Alkaline +
• Series mode line rejection >35 db 5 N/C 6V
Power Consumption
• Sensor excitation of 4.5V, 250.0µA or 2.500mA each channel. N/C 9 – The data†aker 500 and 600 use little power if
– 2 Bat. – 2 Bat. –
• Full, half and quarter bridges, voltage or current excitation. 4 RxD 9V allowed to sleep. Less power is used if the logger is powered
• Multiplexer type: solid state (CMOS) N/C 8 via the battery terminals, rather than the AC/DC terminals,
+ 3 Lead + 3 Lead +
3 TxD because the battery charger circuit draws additional current.
For each analog input type, the data†aker 500 and N/C 7 Internal Gel Cell Battery Internal Alkaline Battery
data†aker 600 provides three decade ranges that are 2 N/C Power Source Condition Current (typical)
selected automatically N/C 6 11-24Vdc battery awake 100mA
Interface +
1 battery sleep 0.36mA
Input Type Channels Range Units Resolution Ground ~ ~ + Bat. + AC/DC awake 105mA
Diff SE DC ~ AC/DC awake & charging 600mA
DC Voltage 10 30 ±25 mV 1µV –
~ ~ – Bat. –
AC/DC sleep 5mA
±250 mV 10µV Gnd Gnd AC/DC sleep & charging 500mA
or 9-18Vac External Battery
±2500 mV 100µV
DC Current 10 40 ±0.25 mA 200nA (6-9V Gel Cell
External DC Power External AC Power or 9V Alkaline)
Caution - To avoid damage use 6Volt
±2.5 mA 1µA lead acid battery only, ensure correct
±25. mA 10µA
Resistance 10 20 10 Ohms 0.5mΩ
polarity before connecting the battery
Address s4 s5 s6 s7 s8

External
Battery
100 Ohms 5mΩ

AC/DC
Digital Counters Analog Channels
0 off off off off off

Ground
Ground
500 Ohms 50mΩ ON

Net.
Dip Switch I/O

1(out)
4 3 2 1

Wake
7000 Ohms 500mΩ 1 off off off off on RS232 COMMS
2 off off off on off Shown set to the Port (Isolated) R - + R- + R - + R - +
Frequency 10 30 0.1-20,000 Hz 0.01%
3 off off off on on
1 23 456 7 8
factory defaults
–+ ~~ – + 43 21 32 1
* * * *
Diff refers to differential or double ended channels, and SE refers 4 off off on off off
to single ended channels (see "Glossary" on page 23). 5 off off on off on √ AA Lithium
6 off off on on off Battery
Country s1
Digital Inputs and Outputs 7 off off on on on on lower
• 4 TTL/CMOS compatible digital input channels for digital state, 8 off on off off off US (60Hz) on circuit board
9 off on off off on Other (50Hz) off Channel Expansion
digital events, low speed counters (10 Hz, 16 bit, presettable).
10 off on off on off Connector
Digital input terminals are shared with digital output channels Internal Battery

75mm
• 4 Digital open collector outputs rated to 200mA at 30V 11 off on off on on Connector
12 off on on off off Baud Rate s2 s3 s4 Add. Range 110 mm Height: without memory card 85mm
• 3 high speed counters, (1KHz or 1MHz, 16 bit, presettable).
13 off on on off on 123 with memory card 105mm
• All analog channels may also be used as digital inputs, with a 1200 off off x 0 - 31
user definable threshold. 14 off on on on off 9600 off on off 0 - 15
15 off on on on on 300 off on on 0 - 15 ON
Input Type Channels Range 16 on off off off off 2400 on off x 0 - 31
Digital Bit 4 0 or 1 State 17 on off off off on 4800 on on x 0 - 31
1 23 4 5 6 7 8
See "Baud Rate and Address"

Digital Nibble 1 0 to 15 State 18 on off off on off x = don't care

LS counter 4 65535 Counts 19 on off off on on
HS counter 3 65535 Counts 20 on off on off off Country Setting + -R + -R
21 on off on off on The Country Setting determines the Memory Card Socket * * * + - R * + - R* + - R* + - R
Network 22 on off on on off default integration period (16.7mS for US Convert
10 9 8 7 6 5 Display
23 on off on on on +5 volts Analog Channels
and 20mS for others) for the analog to
The data†aker 500 and data†aker 600 both have Lamp (switched) Single Ended Ref. Connector
24 on on off off off digital converter, and the default date
an RS485 network. A proprietary network protocol supports error 250 mm
25 on on off off on format (see "Date" on page 6).
free communications between up to thirty two data†aker
26 on on off on off 270 mm
500 and data†aker 600 series data loggers. See
27 on on off on on Baud Rate and Address
"Networking" on page 14. Dip switch four (s4) is not available for
28 on on
29 on on
on off
on off
off
on setting the address if 300 or 9600 baud Powering the Multiplexer SW USW SW USW
rate is selected. This reduces the address The data†aker 500 and 600 have an option to maintain Mux Power Mux Power
30 on on on on off
range to 0 – 15. multiplexer power when asleep. This is achieved by moving the Mux. Power-down Power maintained
31 on on on on on
Power link located under the top cover near channel 9. Position Position
 Page 26
Appendix — data†aker DT505 and DT 605

Introduction COMMS Port also page 13 Power Supply and Battery Power Consumption
Each model in the data†aker data logger range has a The data†aker 505 and data†aker 605 RS232 The data†aker 505 and 605 can be powered by The data†aker 505 and 605 will consume very little
number of characteristics which differentiates it from theeother COMMS Port is serial RS232 compatible. The output signal Source Range + Terminal – Terminal power if it is allowed to sleep. Less power is consumed if the
models. This page describes the characteristics for the level is approximately ±4 Volts, allowing communications over logger is powered via the battery terminals rather than the
data†aker 505 and the data†aker 605 distances in access 100 meters at 1200 baud. Greater AC 9 – 18Vac AC/DC~ AC/DC~ AC/DC Power terminals. This is because the battery charger
distances are possible at 300 baud. The maximum practical DC 11 – 24Vdc AC/DC~ AC/DC~
• 10 analog and 7 digital channels circuit draws additional current.
distance is also dependent on the host computer's RS232 DC 11 – 24Vdc AC/DC~ Gnd
• Relay Multiplexer (±100V input) 9V Alkaline Battery 6.2 – 10Vdc Alkaline + Bat. – Power Source Condition Current (typical)
• Network support (as for DT500,600) characteristics. (Note: the RS232 "standard" specifies 2000pF
maximum cable capacitance, and no maximum distance). 6V Gel Cell Battery 5.6 – 8Vdc Lead + Bat. – battery awake 220mA
• Channel expansion socket
The data†aker 505 and data†aker 605 RS232 The gel cell connection provides temperature compensated battery sleep 0.36mA
COMMS Port is electrically isolated to 500V. charging with voltage (6.90V) and current (1A) limiting for a AC/DC awake 230mA
Analog Inputs three cell battery, when an AC or DC supply is also connected. AC/DC awake & charging 600mA
• 10 differential or 30 single ended, or any mix. It is not recommended to connect both an internal and an AC/DC sleep 5mA
• Switchable attenuator that allows high voltage measurement.
• Sampling rate 25 samples/sec.
RS232 COMMS Connector external 6V/9V battery. Better that the external battery is a AC/DC sleep & charging 400mA
larger capacity 12V battery connected as External DC Power.
• Channels have 500 volt isolation while not being read. The simplified schematic on page 25 for the data†aker Battery life for the data†aker 505 and 605 is about
• Input impedance 1MΩ, or >100 MΩ selectable. 500 and 600 is also applicable to the data†aker 505 one third longer than that of the data†aker 500 and 600
• Common mode range ±3.5 Vdc, ±100 Vdc attenuators on. 5 N/C and 605. for slow scan rates (>30 min). See "Battery Life" on page 15.
• Common mode rejection >90 db (110 db typical). N/C 9 11-24Vdc
• Series mode line rejection >35 db. 4 RxD +
+ +
• Sensor excitation of 4.5V, 250.0µA or 2.500mA each channel. N/C 8 ~ ~ Bat. + 1 Alkaline + 1 Alkaline +
• Full, half and quarter bridges, voltage or current excitation. 3 TxD DC ~ Bat. – 6V
• Multiplexer type: relay
N/C 7
2 N/C –
~ ~ –
– 2 Bat. –
–
9V
2 Bat. –

Input Type Channels Range Units Resolution N/C 6 Gnd 9-18Vac Gnd External Battery
Interface or + 3 Lead + 3 Lead +
Diff SE 1 (6-9V Gel Cell
Ground or 9V Alkaline) Internal Gel Cell Battery Internal Alkaline Battery
DC Voltage 10 30 ±25 mV 1µV External DC Power External AC Power
±250 mV 10µV
±2500 mV 100µV Headphone Socket

External
Battery
AC/DC
±7 V 250µV Digital Counters Analog Channels (Geologger versions)

Ground

Ground
Net.
±70V 2.5mV I/O

Wake
4 3 2 1

1(out)
RS232 COMMS
±100V 25mV ON
Dip switch Port (Isolated) –+ ~~ – + 43 21 32 1 R - +* R- +* R - +* R - +*
DC Current 10 40 ±0.25 mA 200nA Shown set to the
±2.5 mA 1µA 1 23 456 7 8
factory defaults
±25. mA 10µA Address s4 s5 s6 s7 s8
Resistance 10 20 10 Ohms 0.5mΩ 0 off off off off off √ AA Lithium
100 Ohms 5mΩ 1 off off off off on Battery
500 Ohms 50mΩ 2 off off off on off on lower
7000 Ohms 500mΩ Country s1 Channel Expansion
3 off off off on on circuit board
Frequency 10 30 0.1-20,000 Hz 0.01% 4 off off on off off US (60Hz) on Connector

75mm
Diff refers to differential or double ended channels and SE refers 5 off off on off on Other (50Hz) off Internal Battery
110 mm
to single ended channels (see Glossary on page 23). 6 off off on on off Connector Height: without memory card 85mm
All analog input channel terminals except for the Return (R) 7 off off on on on with memory card 105mm
terminals are capable of withstanding 1.5KV for 10µS, 500V for 8 off on off off off Baud Rate s2 s3 s4 Add. Range
50mS and 100V indefinitely. The return terminal can withstand 9 off on off off on 1200 off off x 0 - 31
10 off on off on off
ON 123 ON
only 5 % of these voltages. 9600 off on off 0 - 15
These withstanding voltages only apply to unselected 11 off on off on on 300 off on on 0 - 15 1 23 4 5 6 7 8 12 3 4

channels. While a channel is actually being read (a process that 12 off on on off off 2400 on off x 0 - 31
typically takes 30mS), these withstanding voltages are reduced 13 off on on off on 4800 on on x 0 - 31
to that of the return terminal. 14 off on on on off + -R + -R
15 off on on on on x = don't care
Memory Card Socket * * * + - R * + - R* + - R* + - R
16 on off off off off 10 9 8 7 6 5
Digital Inputs and Outputs 17 on off off off on Country Setting Convert +5 volts Analog Channels
Display
• 4 TTL/CMOS compatible digital input channels for digital state, Lamp (switched) Single Ended Ref. Connector
See "Baud Rate and Address"

18 on off off on off The Country Setting determines the

digital events, low speed counters (10 Hz, 16 bit, presettable). 19 on off off on on default integration period (16.7mS for US 250 mm
Digital input terminals are shared with digital output channels 20 on off on off off and 20mS for others) for the analog to 270 mm
• 4 Digital open collector outputs rated to 200mA at 30V 21 on off on off on digital converter, and the default date Auxiliary Dip Switch
• 3 high speed counters, (1KHz or 1MHz, 16 bit, presettable). 22 on off on on off format (see "Date" on page 6).
High Voltage Measurement
The data†aker 505 and 605 models have a Four way Auxilliary Dip Switch provides other options.
• All analog channels may also be used as digital inputs, with a 23 on off on on on
switchable four wire (on the ★, +, – and SERef. lines) Sw1 - 3 must be set in the
user definable threshold. 24 on on off off off Baud Rate and Address attenuator after the input multiplexer. In each case default positions to use
25 on on off off on Dip switch position four (s4) is not
Input Type Channels Range attenuation is relative to ground. The attenuators on the ON dataTaker network.
26 on on off on off available for setting the address if 300 or
Digital Bit 4 0 or 1 State 27 on on off on on differential inputs ( + and –) are matched to ensure high With s4 in the ON position a
9600 baud rate is selected. This reduces common mode rejection.
Digital Nibble 1 0 to 15 State 28 on on on off off 12 34 19200 Hz frequency signal is
the address range to 0 – 15. Two channel types automatically select the attenuators –
LS counter 4 65535 Counts 29 on on on off on applied to the High Speed
HS counter 3 65535 Counts 30 on on on on off n HV and n L (see "Channel Types" on page 4). For other Counter (1HSC) input.
channel types use the A channel option to switch in the Default positions Note: Parameter 27 must be
31 on on on on on
attenuators e.g 2AS(A). See "Channel Options" on page 5. for SW2 dip switch set P27=0 to use this input.
 Page 27
Appendix — Geologger DT 515 and DT 615

Introduction Single Ended Connection Trouble Shooting Measuring Gauge Temperature

The Geologger is functionally similar to the Vibrating wire gauges may also be connected single By design, most vibrating wire gauges are very reliable. If Most vibrating wire gauges are sensitive to temperature
data†aker 505 and data†aker 605 (see "Appendix endedly – that is they can share a common terminal. A a gauge fails to return sensible results it can be due to: fluctuations. Where a gauge's temperature is likely to change
– data†aker 505 and 605 " on page 26) with the channels return terminal becomes the "common", and each • an open circuit significantly, its temperature is usually measured. The
addition of support for vibrating wire sensors. All electrical of the channel's remaining three terminals become single • a short circuit Geologger supports all sensor types normally used
and programming characteristics are identical except the ended input terminals. It is now possible to connect three • excessive cable leakage including Thermistors (Yellow Springs 400XX series),
Geologger models have an extra channel type – n FW sensors to each channel. • very high induced common mode noise levels platinum, nickel, and copper RTDs. See "Channel Types" on
(Frequency of Wire) and a software speaker switch /V. The • direct noise pick up by gauge coil page 4 and "RTDs" on page 16 for more information.
Geologger supports most vibrating wire gauges with Shield
• failed gauge Measuring Frequency and Temperature
resonances between 600Hz and 4.5KHz. • excessive cable length for gauge sensitivity
• inappropriate use of single ended input.
on one Channel
Vibrating Wire Support Examples • gauge frequency outside 500Hz to 5KHz range Depending on the gauge wiring, it is usually possible to
• mechanical vibration of gage by external forces measure the vibrating wire differentially and a resistance
The Geologgers use a pulse to pluck the wire in a ✱ 1✱FW
(temperature sensor) on a single channel.
vibrating wire gauge. The advantage of the pulse pluck 1+FW
method is that a fixed pulse is able to stimulate a wide range
1–FW The Speaker /V /v
of gauges. This greatly simplifies channel programming for The Geologger has a built in speaker and headphone
R Channel
the user. jack (3.5mm mono or stereo, 8Ω) specifically for fault ✱ Terminals
The balanced pluck pulse is approximately 150µS long Channel diagnosis. The speaker is enabled by the /V switch (see RTD
and up to 36 volts in amplitude. The pulse has a current Terminals "Switches" on page 11). The speaker is connected to the high >1KΩ
1FW
source characteristic that provides automatic cable length gain amplifiers output. Note that the frequency response of R 1+YS04
compensation. Sensors on long cable will be pulsed with the G Ground the small speaker is far from flat – the use of headphones is
same energy as those on shorter cables. Vibrating wire preferred.
The Geologger has a high gain low noise signal sensors For a good gauge and correct installation, the sound is a Vibrating wire sensor with two wire RTD
amplifier with transformer coupling on the input. The clean "ping", decaying over a period of a few seconds. Note
Single Ended VW Connection Temperature channel is read single endedly as for
amplified signal is filtered using band pass filters (500Hz to the full decay can only be heard for the last channel in a
5KHz) and a phase lock loop (PLL) to reduce frequency example 1+YS04 (a YSI 44004 sensor - see page 16) and
As can be seen in the diagram, shielding is the same as channel list. Embedded channels can be heard but only for
noise before the frequency is measured by a precision the vibrating wire as 1FW. Note the RTD sensor type must
for the differential connection. about half a second.
frequency counter. be of a relatively high resistance type (say >1000Ω) if errors
The single ended input arrangement functions best If there is no tone but only noise, check the channel type,
due to cable resistance are to be avoided.
where: wiring and resistance (below).
to input multiplexer Similarly other configurations are possible. If the
• cable lengths are relatively short (say < 100 meters) If a note can be heard but it is faint or buried in the noise,
temperature sensor is of a low resistance type then the
• gauges have good sensitivity (signal to pluck ratio) then the cable is too long or "leaky", or the gauge insensitive.
following is recommended:
phase frequency If the note is not clean and pure then the gauge is
pluck Because of the great range in gauge sensitivity it is difficult to
circuit amp lock loop measurement suspect. It may have been damaged during installation.
predict the operating limits. We suggest that for cable lengths Channel
filter circuit
in excess of 100 meters that test be conducted with the
If you can hear a low frequency "hum", then noise pick is ✱ Terminals
a problem. If the gauge is placed near a transformer, electric
gauges to be deployed. RTD
motor, high current power cables etc., either re-site or
Signals in the order of tens of microvolts can provide >50Ω 1–FW
orientate gauge for minimum pickup. Ensure cable is shielded
R 1PT392
useful reading. Transformer coupling ensures very high
common mode rejection, a characteristic that is needed to
Programming VW Channels to prevent capacitive pickup.
Channels connected to vibrating wire gauges are
reject 50/60 hertz and other interfering noise. Single ended vibrating wire with three wire RTD
supported by the nFW channel type (see "Channel Types" on Measure Resistance
page 4). This channel type tells the logger to configure the Gauge and cable integrity is best determined by However this configuration has the disadvantages of a single
Differential Connection channel for vibrating wire, pluck the sensor, and to measure measuring the circuit resistance. This can be done using a ended vibrating wire connection. If the temperature sensor is
The preferred method of vibrating wire sensor connection the frequency returned. For example the following differential multimeter or the Geologger (see "Resistance" on page of high resistance type then the following is preferred:
is differentially between the "+" and "–" inputs of a channel. channel specifications 4). This resistance should be stable and not drift with time.
1FW 5..8FW Channel
Shield
will return Measurement Delay n FW(200) ✱ Terminals
✱ Example 1FW 3056.7 Hz If returned data is unstable to the extent that it varies by RTD
1FW 5FW 1896.4 Hz perhaps ±20Hz yet the speaker indicates a strong signal, the >1KΩ 1FW
6FW 2035.7 Hz signal may contain harmonics. The harmonics generally R 1–NI(2000)
Channel 7FW 1705.5 Hz decay more rapidly than the fundamental, so increasing the
R
Vibrating wire Terminals 8FW 1769.2 Hz time between stimulation and frequency measurement can Differential vibrating wire with two wire RTD
sensor G Ground improve the results. The measurement delay can be adjusted
as data on channels 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8. Single ended channels
by setting the channel factor in milliseconds (see "Channel It is possible to use the copper coil in the vibrating wire
are specified by adding a terminal identifier
Differential VW Connection Options" on page 5). For example 1FW(500) will increase the gauge as a temperature sensor provided a three wire
2+FW 2–FW 2✱FW delay from the default 200mS to 500mS. connection is used:
will return
While the shield is optional it will often be found 2+FW 4597.8 Hz
necessary when noise pick-up is a problem. The preferred Extra Samples n FW(ES9) ✱ Channel
2–FW 4445.2 Hz By default the Geologger measures a vibrating wire Terminals
shield connection point is one of the Geologger's ground 2✱FW 3909.7 Hz VW
terminals or a case ground terminal strip. frequency over a period of 10 line periods (167mS in 60Hz coil 1FW
If the channels return terminal (R) is not used for other where the " +", "–" and "✱" indicate gauges connected single countries and 200mS in 50Hz countries). This has been >50Ω R 1CU(135)
purposes it can be used as a shield terminal. However as the endedly between the return terminal and "+", "–" and "✱" found optimal for most gauge types. However for gauges with
return terminal is internally connected to ground via a 100Ω terminals respectively. a rapid signal decay, this period can be reduced so that the
Differential vibrating wire with three wire copper RTD
resistor, its effectiveness is not as great as a direct connect Readings can be scaled into engineering units using the measurement window does not extend into the noise. For
to ground. Also, if lightning strike is possible, then the resistor Geologgers functions, spans, polynomials and example 1FW(ES4,100) will allow sampling over 5 line The gauge is read as 1FW and the temperature as 1CU(135)
may be destroyed. calculations. See "Scaling and Calculations" on page 7. periods and reduce the measurement delay to 100mS. where the 135 channel factor is the coils resistance at 0°C.
 Page 28
Appendix — Channel Expansion Module
Introduction Power Consumption Condition Current
The Channel Expansion Module provides increased The module number is also attached to data returned by The Expansion Module will consume very little power if
sleep 100µA
channel capacity for data†akers fitted with an expansion the data†aker. The above channels will return data as: the data†aker to which it is attached is allowed to sleep.
awake, no scanning or digital I/O 100µA
connector. The channel measurement specifications of the While scanning channels on the expander, the current drawn
1:5V 23.452mV digital inputs grounded 4mA
data†aker also apply to the Channel Expansion Module. from the data†aker will increase to 60mA. Additional
2:1DS 1 State scanning module's channels 60mA
This particularly applies to the analog input voltage ranges. 2:2DS 0 State current is required if the digital output relays are switched
relay outputs set (1..5DSO=1) 175mA
While the expansion module has a relay multiplexer on. Each of the five relays will draw 35mA, however these
2:3DS 1 State worst case maximum 240mA
capable of withstanding voltages in excess of 500 volts, if for relays are automatically switched off when the data†aker
example it is connected to a data†aker 500 and 600, As with all data returned by the data†aker , the channel sleeps. A summary of current draw is tabulated to the right:
the maximum allowable input voltage remains ±4 volts. identification can be switched off using the /n switch.

Analog Inputs Internal Channels Module

Each Channel Expansion Module has two internal 5 volts Module Module
• 10 differential or 30 single ended, or any mix. channels: a temperature and an electrical zero channel. Digital
• Channel characteristics identical to data†aker to 15K Relay
which the module is attached. e :1 %LM35 expander temperature channel Digital Output
Output
• Channels have 500 volt isolation while not being read. e :2 %V electrical zero channel Input 100K Terminal
• Input impedance 1MΩ, or >100 MΩ selectable. where e is the expander number and the percent symbol Ground logic Ground Pair
• Sensor excitation of 4.5V, 250.0µA, 2.500mA or indicates an internal channel.
externally supplied source, to each channel.
• Full, half and quarter bridges, voltage or current excitation.
• Multiplexer type: relay
High Voltage Protection Digital Inputs 1 to 20 Digital Outputs 6 to 10 Digital Outputs 1 to 5
The Channel Expansion Module does not include built in
energy absorbing lightning protection. However with certain 270 mm
Digital Inputs and Outputs important conditions, all analog channel terminals except for 250 mm
• 20 TTL/CMOS/Voltage free contact compatible digital input the return (R) terminals are capable of withstanding 1.5KV
channels for digital state and byte input for 10µS, 500V for 50mS and 100V indefinitely. The return Digital Input Channels Digital Output Channels
Digital State Inputs Normally Open Relay Outputs
terminal can withstand only 5 % of these voltages. Open Collector O/Ps
• 10 Digital output for digital state and byte output G 6 7 8 G 9 10 G 1 2 3 G 4 5 6 G 7 8 9 G10 1112 G 131415 G 161718 G 19 20 G 5 4 3 2 1 G
5 contact closures rated 110Vac/dc at 5A The above withstanding voltages apply only to
5 open collector outputs rated to 200mA at 30V unselected channels. While a channel is being read (a
• All analog channels may also be used as digital inputs, process that typically takes 30mS), these withstanding
with a user definable voltage threshold. voltages are reduced to those of the data†aker For
Expansion connector
Note: the expansion module digital inputs do not support any non-isolated data†akers this can be as low as 5 volts Expansion connector (to previous module
counter channel types. relative to ground. (to next module) data†aker )
In applications where scanning is infrequent (say not
more than every 3 hours), the probability of a scan being 110 mm 75 mm
Module Installation co-incident with a lightning strike is very low.
The expansion module is connected to the data†aker Where lightning is frequent, we strongly recommend that
via the 25 way expansion connector on the end of the external energy absorbing lightning protection be wired to
logger's case. A 50 cm (1.6 feet) ribbon cable is provided. each sensor line. Further, we recommend that
Additional expansion modules can be chained end to end: data†akers with higher withstanding voltages be used.

Thermocouples GG
Ex
✱ + 1 – R ✱ + 2 – R ✱ + 3 – R ✱ + 4 – R ✱ + 5 – R ✱ + 6 – R ✱ + 7 – R ✱ + 8 – R ✱ + 9 – R ✱ + 10 – R G G
Analog Input Channels SE Ref
The Channel Expansion Module has been designed to
Expander 2 Expander 1 data†aker
function with thermocouples. The module's temperature Analog Channels
sensor is located so that it senses the temperature of the
Up to 2 Channel Expansion Modules may be connected
analog channel screw terminals. These terminals become Ground Terminals
to a data†aker . The total cable length must be less than External Excitation Jumper shown in
the reference junction. Single Ended Reference Terminal
2 meters (6 feet). input terminal normal position
Before you install an expansion module, disconnect The data†aker will automatically measure the
module's temperature and electrical zero when scanning a
mains power and all batteries from the data†aker . After
thermocouple channel on the module. These values are
module connection, power up the data†aker and the new
channels will become available. The first line returned by the used for reference junction compensation. External Excitation (EE) Single Ended Reference
The accuracy of thermocouple measurement is For sensors that require non-standard powering or The Channel Expansion Module has a SE Ref input
TEST command will reflect the new hardware configuration.
dependent on the isothermal condition of the reference excitation, an External Excitation input terminal is able to terminal with an identical function to that found on the
A "6" indicates a Channel Expansion Module.
junction. If a temperature gradient develops between the direct power to the Excite ( ✽) terminal of a selected channel. data†akers. It provides a floating common for single
modules temperature sensor and the input terminals, the This option can be enabled by moving a jumper to the outer ended input (see the "X" channel option on page 5).
Channel Addressing error will approximately equal the temperature difference. two pins on a three pin header. The jumper is accessed by The SE Ref input is switched on each module, but not on
The module utilises relays for channel selection and removing the module's top cover. most data†akers . (The DTxx5 series are the exception).
Channel addressing on the expander follows the normal
digital output. These are a source of heat as each relay The normal position of the jumper (between the inner This means that if the SE Ref terminal is used on one or
data†aker conventions except that an expander prefix is dissipates 150mW when switched on. For maximum two pins) provides the standard data†aker 250µA, 2.5mA more modules, it should not be used on the data†aker.
added. The prefix is the module number and a colon. The thermocouple accuracy, you should ensure that these relays or 4.5V excitation. If the external excitation option is The selected module's SE Ref input will appear as an
module connected to the data†aker is module number are not left on unnecessarily. selected these are not available on any channel of the output on the data†aker 's SE Ref terminal.
one, the next module in the chain is number two. Some A not so obvious reason that a relay may be left on is module. Care must be taken in assigning channels. If for The input voltage range of the SE Ref input is identical to
examples are that the last channel in a schedule remains selected if P15 example an Expansion Module is wired with a four wire RTD that of the data†aker to which the Channel Expansion
1:5V module 1, analog channel 5 (voltage) is set to 1 or 2. This can be resolved if P15 is set to zero or a and several bridges requiring 12V excitation, then the 12V Module is attached. This is ± 3.5V for the data†aker
2:1..3DS module 2, digital channels 1 to 3 dummy channel is placed at the end of the schedule. A good would be applied to the RTD when it is scanned. The RTD 500 and 600 models, ±100V for the data†aker 505
2:4DSO=1 module 2, digital output channel 4 choice would be 1 %V(M18:156,W). would probably be damaged. and 605 and Geologger 515 and 615 models.
 Page 29
Appendix — Memory Card Processing (Flow Chart)

Memory card
inserted

UNFORMATTED (NEW) NOTES:

CARD
Is card 1. Display of messages and sounding
New card?
YES write- NO
Format card
of beeper only occur on Datatakers
protected? fitted with a keypad/display unit (for
example, DT600, DT605, DT615 and
NO Panel-Mount Display).
YES
FORMATTED 2. If the write-protect switch is set to
Display card ID CARD
(may contain
Write-Enabled and writing/appending
Card ID is data and/or Beep once and display: to the card is allowed, then any
program)
Display card ID:
Boiler Room internal data will be transferred to the
Write-Protected Card ID is
and beep once unable to format card as the switch is switched.
512KB card
Issue E19 message
to serial port and beep once

Does card
contain program YES
and is /Q switch ON
in Datataker?

NO Run card program.

Add to Display:
TRANSFER DATA FROM DATATAKER TO CARD
Prog

Does Is card Does

card contain NO write- NO Datataker NO
data? protected? contain Direct
data? logging
YES Transfer data to
YES YES card
to card.
Add to display:
Do YES Xfer
Datataker and Allow new data Is
card programs match to be appended. transfer Will
YES
and is NOCOPY Add to display: blocked by all internal
NO
not in card NOCOPY in card data fit into free
Append space on
program? program?
card? Resume
normal
NO YES NO operation

Does
Datataker NO
contain
data?
Continue
YES logging
to
Sound one extra beep and display: internal
memory
Can’t Copy Data
DATA Issue E17 message to serial port
DECISIONS
 Page 30
Appendix — Specifications
Alarms can be set for all input channels, and can be annunciated by
Introduction switching of digital outputs, returning alarm messages to a host computer, and
The data†aker data loggers can be installed locally and communicate
directly with a local host computer, or can be installed in remote locations and
The data†aker range of data loggers are all microprocessor-based displaying alarm states. communicate to a base host computer by various telemetry options including
battery powered or mains powered data loggers which can measure all of the PSTN, cellular networks and radio.
fundamental signal types, and have direct support built in for a wide range of The data†aker models differ only in the number of input channels, the
commonly used sensors. type of analog channel multiplexing, and expansion and display options. The Geologger 515 and 615 data loggers have the same
specification as the data†aker series. However, these loggers also support
Data manipulation includes sensor calibrations, real-time statistical All models support the same signal types and sensors, and have the
vibrating wire strain gauges, which are the active elements of a wide range of
functions, and real-time calculations. The acquired data can either be returned same capabilities for acquiring, manipulating and logging data.
pressure sensors, load sensors, displacement sensors, etc. that are
to a host computer in real time, or can be logged into memory for later The data†aker data loggers are suitable for applications in industry, commonly used in geotechnical, mining and structural applications.
recovery. Data can be stored in battery backed internal memory, or in PC Card science, agriculture, the environment, hydrography, and the public utilities.
(PCMCIA) memory cards which can be periodically removed from the logger
to transport the data.

Features Comparison of the data†aker Data Loggers

data†aker 50 data†aker 500 data†aker 600 data†aker 505 data†aker 605 GeoLogger 515 GeoLogger 615

Analog Channels - Differential 5 10 10 10 10 10 10

or - Single Ended 10 30 30 30 30 30 30
Multiplexer Solid State Solid State Solid State Relay Relay Relay Relay
Resolution 15 bit/1µV 15 bit/1µV 15 bit/1µV 15 bit/1µV 15 bit/1µV 15 bit/1µV 15 bit/1µV
Common Mode Range ±3.5V ±3.5V ±3.5V ±100V ±100V ±100V ±100V
Volts, Current, 4-20mA, Resistance ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Frequency, Period ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Thermocouple Support 11 types 11 types 11 types 11 types 11 types 11 types 11 types
RTD Support (Pt, Cu, Ni) ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Bridges, Strain Gauge Support ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Vibrating Wire Support ✖ ✖ ✖ ✖ ✖ ✔ ✔
Digital Channels - Input/Output 5/5 4/4 4/4 4/4 4/4 4/4 4/4
Counter Channels - Fast/Slow 3/5 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4
Channel Expansion ✖ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Isolated RS232 ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Max Baud Rate 9600 9600 9600 9600 9600 9600 9600
Supports Datataker Network ✖ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Integral Display ✖ ✖ ✔ ✖ ✔ ✖ ✔
Panel Mount Display Option ✔ ✔ ✖ ✔ ✖ ✔ ✖
Internal Battery ✖ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

DT50 DT500 DT600 DT505 DT605 DT515 DT615

 Page 31
Appendix — Specifications (cont.)
Analog Input Channels Analog Sensor Support Measuring Ranges
dataTaker 50 Geologger 515, 615
• 5 differential or 10 single-ended, can be used in any mix. • Vibrating wire sensor support: Input Type Range Units Resolution
• Solid state multiplexers. 30V for 100µS pulse excitation DC Voltage ±25.000 mV 1µV
• Common mode range ±3.5VDC. 50 to 300Ω coils ±250.00 mV 10µV
dataTaker 500,600 0.5 to 5KHz frequency range ±2500.0 mV 100µV
• 10 differential or 30 single-ended, can be used in any mix. phase lock loop filtering ±7.000 V 250µV Note 1
• Solid state multiplexers. loudspeaker for troubleshooting ±70.00 V 2.5mV Note 1
• Common mode range ±3.5VDC. ±100.00 V 10mV Note 1
• Expansion by Channel Expansion Modules (CEMs) with 10 differential or Digital Channels Attenuated DC Voltage Any range mV Depends on Attenuators
30 single-ended analog channels. Maximum of two CEMs. dataTaker 50 DC Current ±0.2500 mA 200nA
dataTaker 505,605 and Geologger 515, 615 • 5 digital input/output channels. Internal Shunts ±2.500 mA 1µA
• 10 differential or 30 single-ended, can be used in any mix. dataTaker 500,600,505,605 Geologger 515, 615 ±25.00 mA 10µA
• Relay multiplexers. • 4 digital input/output channels.
External Shunts Any range mA Depends on Shunt
• Common mode range ±100VDC. • Expansion by Channel Expansion Modules with 20 digital input and 10
• Input withstanding voltages for analog channels: 4-20mA Loop 0 to 100 Percent 0.01%
digital output channels. Maximum of two CEMs.
Unselected channels ±1.5KVDC for 10µS Resistance 10.000 Ohms 1mΩ
Digital Input Channels
±500VDC for 50mS 100.00 Ohms 1mΩ
• Accept voltage-free contact closure inputs (inbuilt 15K pullups) and
±100VDC continuously 500.0 Ohms 5mΩ
TTL/CMOS inputs.
Selected channels ±100VDC continuously 7000.0 Ohms 50mΩ
• Measure the logic state of individual channels (bit) or of groups of
• Expansion by Channel Expansion Modules with 10 differential or 30 Frequency 0.1 to 300,000.0 Hz 0.01Hz
channels (byte).
single-ended analog channels. Maximum of two CEMs. Period 30,000 to 3 µSec 1µS
• Generate digital transition events to trigger data acquisition.
• Also provide low speed counter functions to 10Hz sensitivity, Vibrating Wire 500.00 to 5000.00 Hz 0.01Hz Note 2
Analog to Digital Conversion 0 to 65535 range, presettable (not available on CEM). Temperature –250.0 to 1800.0 Deg C 0.1%
All Models • Digital input channels share with the digital output channels. -420.0 to 3200.0 Deg F 0.1%
• Autocalibrating • Analog channels can be used to read digital state, with user definable
Strain Gauges –104 to 104 ppm 1ppm
• Autoranging over 3 decades. state threshold.
and Bridges –105 to 105 ppm 10ppm
• Resolution 15 bit plus sign, 1 µV. Digital Output Channels
–106 to 106 ppm 100ppm
• Sampling rate 25 samples/second. • TTL/CMOS-compatible digital output channels.
• Accuracy better than 0.15% of full scale. Digital Bit 0 or 1 State 1
• Open collector lines, rated to +30VDC @ 200mA.
• Linearity better than 0.05% Digital Byte (4/5 bits) 0-15/0-31 State 1
• Used for switching logic states, for relay control, for alarm annunciation,
• Input impedance 1MΩ, or >100MΩ selectable. and sensor support. Digital Average 0.00 to 1.00 State 0.01
• Common mode rejection >90db, 110db typical. • Digital output channels share with the digital input channels. Counter 0 to 65535 Counts 1
• Series mode line rejection >35db Phase Encoder –32768 to 32767 Counts 1
Counter Channels
• Floating common input for single-ended measurements. Analog State 0 or 1 State 1
• 3 separate high speed counter channels on all models.
• Count at up to 1KHz normally, or up to 500KHz optionally. Polynomials ±9.9e-18 to ±9.9e18 User 0.0001
Analog Sensor Support • 0 to 65535 range, presettable. Linear Spans ±9.9e-18 to ±9.9e18 User 0.0001
All Models • Count even when logger is asleep Calculations ±9.9e-18 to ±9.9e18 User 0.0001
• 4, 3 and 2 wire resistance, RTD and thermistor measurement.
• Sensor excitation of 4.5V, 250.0µA or 2.500mA each channel. Time and Date Note 1: data†aker 505, 605 and Geologger 515, 615 only
• Full, half and quarter bridges, voltage or current excitation. • Hardware clock, independent 2 year lithium battery. Note 2: Geologger 515, 615 only
• 4-20 mA current loops, internal or external shunts • Resolution 1 second, accuracy 2 seconds/day (0 to 50°C).
• Thermocouple types B, C, D, E, G, J, K, N, R, S and T, with cold • Date in formats
junction compensation and linearization. Date DD/MM/YYYY
• Platinum RTDs, a=0.003850Ω/Ω/°C, any resistance. Date MM/DD/YYYY
• Platinum RTDs, a=0.003916Ω/Ω/°C, any resistance. Day number DDDDD
• Nickel RTDs, a=0.005001Ω/Ω/°C, any resistance. Decimal day DDDDD.DDD
• Copper RTDs, a=0.0039Ω/Ω/°C, any resistance. • Time in HH:MM:SS, decimal hour HH.HHHH and seconds SSSSS
• Thermistors, Yellow Springs YSI 400xx series. • 4 auto-incrementing internal timers (second, minute, hour and
• Semiconductors, AD590, LM335, LM34 and LM35. day of week) for use in sequencing, alarms, calculations, etc.
• Real-time clock used for scan scheduling, date and time stamping of data,
alarm timing and within calculations.
 Page 32
Appendix — Specifications (cont.)
Scanning of Input Channels Data Compatibility Battery Life
• 1 immediate scan schedule, can include one or more channels. • Compatible with spreadsheets, graphics and statistical packages. Sampling 10 1.2Ah Gel Cell 17 Ah Alkaline
• 4 repetitive scan schedules, can include one or more channels. • Compatible with most computers, modems, radio, and satellite.
channels every Battery Battery
• Time based scanning in increments of 1 sec, 1 min, 1 hour, 1 day.
Continuously 5 hours 3 days
• Event based scanning on digital channel events. Programming
• Event based scanning on counter channel events. 1 minute 12 days 160 days
• All programming is by simple descriptive commands, which are entered from
• Poll based scanning initiated by direct host requests. 15 minutes 60 days 800 days
a host computer via the host serial interface.
• Conditional scanning when inputs exceed setpoint values. • Commands can be pre-recorded into a memory card, and these 1 hour 90 days 900 days
• Conditional scanning while any digital input is high. are automatically executed whenever a memory card is inserted.
Mechanical Specification
Data Scaling Display and Keypad • Robust modular construction using powder-coated steel.
• Data read from the input channels in electrical units can be scaled to • LCD type, 2 line x 16 character, backlit, alphanumeric. • Can be used directly, or housed in fixed or portable enclosures.
engineering units. Subsequent manipulatiois performed on scaled data. • Displays the most recent channel data, alarm status and system information • Signal input/output connection by screw terminals.
• Calibrations for individual sensors can be declared by including time, battery status, amount of data stored. • Operating temperature –20 to 70°C, humidity 95%.
- up to 20 definable linear spans, declared as span co-ordinates. • 5 key keypad for display selection, scrolling, and backlight. • LCD display –5 to 65°C
- up to 20 definable polynomials, from 1st to 5th order. • Keypad also used as 4 user definable function keys. dataTaker 50
- mathematical expressions. • 3 LEDs, a beeper and a flashing LCD backlight provide for local warnings • Length 270mm (10.5 inches), Width 110mm (4.3 inches).
by alarms, etc. • Height 50mm (2.0 inches) with no memory card inserted.
Data Manipulation • Operating temperature range for LCD is –5 to 65°C. • Height 105mm (4.2 inches) with a memory card inserted.
• Statistical data including average, standard deviation, minimum and • Integral in the Datataker 600 and 605, and Geologger 615. • Weight 1.5kg.
maximum with date and time of min and max, and integral. • Also available as a separate Panel Mount Display for mounting into
dataTaker 505,605 and Geologger 515, 615
• Delta, rate of delta (differential) and integral between scans. instrument panels and enclosure doors, which connects to the Datataker
• Length 270mm (10.5 inches), Width 110mm (4.3 inches).
• Histogram, with definable number of classes. 50, 500 and 505, and the Geologger 515.
• Height 85mm (3.3 inches) with no memory card inserted.
• Expression evaluation using channel data and constants, with arithmetic,
• Height 105mm (4.2 inches) with a memory card inserted.
logical and relational operators, log, trig, and other intrinsic functions. Host Communications • Weight 2.4kg.
• RS232, full duplex, isolated to 500Volt.
Alarms • 300, 1200, 2400, 4800 and 9600 baud, switch selectable. Accessories Included
• Alarms for monitoring channels and variables for high and low alarm, inside • Bi-directional XON/XOFF protocol.
• 110/240VAC mains/line power adaptor.
and outside of range alarm, with definable setpoints. • Selectable high level protocol with 16 bit CRC checking.
• RS232 communications cable for IBM™ and compatibles.
• Alarms can be combined by AND, OR and XOR operators. • Compatible with computers, terminals, modems, satellite ground terminals,
• Getting Started Manual and User’s Manual.
• Optional delay period before an out of range condition is considered a true serial printers, etc.
• DeTransfer, DePlot and DeLogger software packages for Windows.
alarm, or recovery considered a true recovery.
• Alarms can switch digital outputs, control display panel LEDs, return alarm Network Communications (not DT50) Options
messages to the host, trigger scanning, and execute Datataker commands. • RS485, with error correcting protocol.
• Panel-Mount Display (for Datataker 50, 500, 505, 515 only)
• Connected via a twisted pair, maximum 1000 metres.
Data Storage • Up to 32 loggers can be in a Datataker network, with one host.
• Channel Expansion Module (see page 33)
• Enclosures (see page 33)
• Battery backed internal RAM, stores up to 166,530 readings.
• 4Ah rechargeable gel cell battery.
• Supports removable PC Card (PCMCIA) memory cards Power Supply • 17Ah alkaline battery.
- 1Mbyte stores up to 343,980 readings • Voltage 9 – 18VAC or 11 – 24VDC external power. • Solar panels for remote site powering.
- 2Mbyte stores up to 693,420 readings • Mains powered from 12VAC/DC mains adaptor. • 1, 2 and 4 Mbyte PC Card (PCMCIA) memory cards.
- 4Mbyte stores up to 1,392,300 readings • Automatically selects low power standby (sleep) mode. • Memory card reader; connects to computer via serial port.
• Stack and circular buffer (overwrite) data storage modes. • Current draw 120mA normal power mode, 400mA when charging internal • Modem Manager for intelligent supervision of remote modems.
• No data loss when memory cards are exchanged. battery, <350µA low power (sleep) mode. • Telephone, cellular and spread spectrum radio modems
• Stored data can be returned for individual scanning schedules,
dataTaker 505,605 and Geologger 515, 615 • DeLogger Pro software package for Windows.
and for selectable date and time periods.
• A 1.2Ah gel cell battery is installed in the logger chassis, and is recharged
whenever external power is available.
Data Format
All Models
• All data in ASCII floating point, fixed point or exponential formats.
• An external 6V gel cell battery can be connected to the logger, and is
• Data format is user configurable for channel identification, data resolution,
recharged whenever external power is available.
units text and delimiters.
• A 9V alkaline battery pack can be used to power the loggers.
• Selectable host computer data format with bi-directional error detection
protocol.
 Page 33
Appendix — Specifications (cont.)
Channel Expansion Module data†aker Enclosures

The Channel Expansion Module connects to data†aker 500,505,600,605 and Geologger 515,615 to Four standard enclosures are available for housing Datataker data loggers and/or Channel Expansion Modules. The
increase the number of analog and digital channels. One or two Channel Expansion Modules can be connected. All enclosures are suitable for industrial, weatherproof and portable applications.
input signals and sensors supported by the data†aker are supported by the Channel Expansion Module.
Industrial Enclosures
Analog Inputs • The industrial enclosures are constructed of powder-coated sheet steel, have a polyurethane door seal, and are rated
• 10 differential or 30 single-ended, can be used in any mix. to IP-65 or NEMA 5.
• Relay multiplexer. • The capacity of each enclosure is
• Common mode range is dependent on the data†aker model. SIE - 1 data†aker or 1 CEM.
• Input withstanding voltage is dependent on the Datataker model. LIE - 1 data†aker plus 1 CEM, or two data†aker
• Sensor excitation of 4.5V, 250.0µA, 2.500mA each channel. SIC - 1 data†aker plus 2 CEMs, or three data†aker
• Provision for externally-supplied sensor excitation. • Each enclosure also houses a 4Ah gel cell or 17Ah alkaline battery.
• Sensor support is dependent on the data†aker model. • Panel-Mount Display modules can be factory installed into the door of any enclosure by special order.
• Local internal temperature sensor monitors CEM temperature for thermocouple reference junction compensation. • Cable entry is completed by the user by drilling holes and fitting cable glands.
• Three sizes of industrial enclosures are available
Digital Channels
Dimensions (mm) Height Width Depth Weight
Digital Inputs
• 20 TTL/CMOS-compatible digital inputs for digital state and digital byte (the digital inputs do not count). Small Indust Enclosure (SIE) 400 200 120 4.5kg
• Accept voltage-free contact closure inputs. Large Indust Enclosure (LIE) 300 380 155 7.0kg
Digital Outputs Small Indust Cabinet (SIC) 600 380 210 15.0kg
• 5 normally-open relay outputs, rated to 110VAC/DC at 5A.
• 5 open collector outputs, rated to 30VDC @ 200mA.
Portable Enclosure
Power Supply • Allows data†aker to be used in a portable mode, and protects the logger from water, dust and mechanical damage.
• Powered directly from the data†aker power supply. Rated to IP-67 or NEMA 6, and can be submersed for short periods.
• Enters low power mode (sleeps) when data†aker sleeps. • Clamshell design, constructed of black ABS plastic with stainless steel hinge. The lid has a neoprene seal, and can be
• Current draw 100µA when asleep, 60mA when scanning, 175mA when all output relays activated. padlocked.
• Withstands 800kg stacking loads, and does not dent or warp.
Connection to the Datataker • Houses one data†aker and a 4Ah gel cell or 17Ah alkaline battery. The logger and battery are mounted into a
• One or two modules can be daisy-chained to a single data†aker supporting frame which locates in the base of the enclosure. The frame can be lifted out for easy access to the screw
• Interconnection by screened cable, 500mm (20 inches) length terminals and connectors of the logger.
• Maximum total cable length 2 metres (6 feet). • Optional subassembly to also install a CEM.
• A Panel-Mount Display module can be factory installed into the lid of the enclosure by special order.
Mechanical Specification • Normally used with the lid open, however cable for cable entry can be installed by the user.
• Robust modular construction using powder-coated steel. • Size of portable enclosure is
• Can be used directly, or housed in fixed or portable enclosures.
Dimensions (mm) Length Width Depth Weight
• Length 270mm (10.5 inches), width 110mm (4.3 inches), height 50mm (2.0 inches), weight 1.0kg.
• Signal input/output connection by screw terminals.
• Operating temperature –20 to 70 Deg C, humidity 95%. Portable Enclosure (PE) 355 260 155 3.5kg
 Page 34
Appendix — Accuracy of the data†aker Data Loggers
ABSOLUTE ACCURACY ABSOLUTE ACCURACY
Tolerance at 25°C Tolerance –20 to 70°C Tolerance at 25°C Tolerance –20 to 70°C
Full % of Plus % of Plus Full % of Plus % of Plus
Range Scale Units Resolution Units Full Scale Offset Units Full Scale Offset Units Range Scale Units Resolution Units Full Scale Offset Units Full Scale Offset Units

VOLTAGE RTDs, 4-Wire

100V ▲ 642 V 28.0 mV ±0.26% ±150 mV ±0.31% ±150 mV Pt100 (100Ω) <51 °C 0.01 °C ±0.10% ±0.07 °C ±0.17% ±0.07 °C
70V ▲ 64.2 V 2.8 mV ±0.26% ±14 mV ±0.31% ±14 mV Pt100 (500Ω) 51-600 °C 0.13 °C ±0.15% ±0.73 °C ±0.24% ±0.73 °C
7V ▲ 6.42 V 0.28 mV ±0.26% ±1.2 mV ±0.31% ±1.2 mV Ni1000 (7K) °C 0.10 °C ±0.20% ±0.56 °C ±0.31% ±0.56 °C
2.5V 3000 mV 130 µV ±0.06% ±700 µV ±0.16% ±700 µV Cu135 (500Ω) °C 0.14 °C ±0.15% ±0.73 °C ±0.24% ±0.73 °C
250mV 300 mV 13 µV ±0.06% ±63 µV ±0.17% ±63 µV BRIDGES, FULL, Voltage
25mV 30 mV 1.3 µV ±0.06% ±5.7 µV ±0.16% ±5.7 µV 2.5V 600000 ppm 26 ppm ±0.00% ±140 ppm ±0.00% ±140 ppm
RESISTANCE 250mV 60000 ppm 2.6 ppm ±0.05% ±13 ppm ±0.07% ±13 ppm
7KΩ (4W,I) 8 kΩ 0.52 Ω ±0.20% ±2.0 Ω ±0.31% ±2.0 Ω 25mV 6000 ppm 0.26 ppm ±0.10% ±1.2 ppm ±0.12% ±1.2 ppm
1KΩ (4W,I) 1.2 kΩ 0.052 Ω ±0.15% ±0.26 Ω ±0.24% ±0.26 Ω BRIDGES, FULL, Current
100Ω (4W,I) 0.12 kΩ 0.0052 Ω ±0.10% ±0.023 Ω ±0.17% ±0.023 Ω 2.5V 3E+06 ppm 150 ppm ±0.16% ±800 ppm ±0.33% ±800 ppm
500Ω (4W,II) 800 Ω 52 mΩ ±0.15% ±280 mΩ ±0.24% ±280 mΩ 250mV 342857 ppm 15 ppm ±0.16% ±72 ppm ±0.34% ±72 ppm
100Ω (4W,II) 120 Ω 5.2 mΩ ±0.10% ±26 mΩ ±0.17% ±26 mΩ 25mV 34286 ppm 1.5 ppm ±0.16% ±6.5 ppm ±0.33% ±6.5 ppm
10Ω (4W,II) 12 Ω 0.52 mΩ ±0.15% ±2.3 mΩ ±0.24% ±2.3 mΩ
BRIDGES, HALF:,Current
RESISTANCE, 3-Wire Compensation (Lead Resistance 10Ω) 2.5V 2E+06 ppm 74 ppm ±0.36% ±400 ppm ±0.62% ±400 ppm
7KΩ (3W,I) 8 kΩ 0.52 Ω ±0.20% ±2.9 Ω ±0.31% ±2.9 Ω 250mV 171429 ppm 7.4 ppm ±0.36% ±36 ppm ±0.63% ±36 ppm
1KΩ (3W,I) 1.2 kΩ 0.052 Ω ±0.15% ±0.32 Ω ±0.24% ±0.32 Ω 25mV 17143 ppm 0.74 ppm ±0.36% ±3.3 ppm ±0.62% ±3.3 ppm
100Ω (3W,I) 0.12 kΩ 0.0052 Ω ±0.10% ±0.09 Ω ±0.17% ±0.09 Ω
500Ω (3W,II) 800 Ω 52 mΩ ±0.15% ±320 mΩ ±0.24% ±320 mΩ
100Ω (3W,II) 120 Ω 5.2 mΩ ±0.10% ±66.0 mΩ ±0.17% ±66.0 mΩ
10Ω (3W,II) 12 Ω 0.52 mΩ ±0.15% ±43 mΩ ±0.24% ±43 mΩ
CURRENT
25mA 30 mA 1.3 µA ±0.16% ±7 µA ±0.25% ±7 µA
2.5mA 3 mA 0.13 µA ±0.16% ±0.7 µA ±0.26% ±0.7 µA
0.25mA 0.3 mA 0.013 µA ±0.16% ±0.06 µA ±0.25% ±0.06 µA
FREQUENCY
300kHz 300 kHz 0.0022 % ±0.052% ±6.5 Hz ±0.061% ±6.5 Hz
30kHz 30 kHz 0.0022 % ±0.052% ±0.65 Hz ±0.061% ±0.65 Hz
3kHz 3 kHz 0.0022 % ±0.052% ±0.065 Hz ±0.061% ±0.065 Hz
300Hz 0.3 kHz 0.0022 % ±0.052% ±0.007 Hz ±0.061% ±0.007 Hz
TIME
24 hrs 1 sec 0.03 sec per day 6.3 sec per day
0.78 sec per month 3.16 min per month
USING THE ACCURACY TABLE (ABOVE)
TEMPERATURE (LM35)
°C 0.013 °C ±0.00% ±1.5 °C ±2.00% ±1.5 °C Example 1 — Calculate the resolution when measuring a frequency of 25kHz.
THERMOCOUPLES, Reference Un-Trimmed ◆ From the “Frequency \ Range 30kHz” row above,
25mV range °C 0.04 °C ±0.06% ±2.7 °C ±0.16% ±2.7 °C Resolution = 0.0022% of Full Scale
250mV range °C 0.43 °C ±0.06% ±4.6 °C ±0.17% ±4.6 °C = 0.022% of 30kHz
THERMOCOUPLES, Reference Trimmed ◆ = 0.66Hz (minimum ADC step)
25mV range °C 0.04 °C ±0.06% ±1.2 °C ±0.16% ±1.2 °C
Example 2 — Calculate the tolerance in measuring a frequency of 25kHz at 25°C.
250mV range °C 0.43 °C ±0.06% ±3.1 °C ±0.17% ±3.1 °C
From the “Frequency \ Range 30kHz” row above,
RTDs, 3-Wire
Pt100 (100Ω) <51 °C 0.01 °C ±0.10% ±0.17 °C ±0.17% ±0.17 °C
Tolerance in the reading at 25°C = (% of Full Scale) + (Offset)
Pt100 (500Ω) 51-600 °C 0.13 °C ±0.15% ±0.82 °C ±0.24% ±0.82 °C = (±0.052% of 30kHz) + (±0.65Hz)
Ni1000 (7K) °C 0.10 °C ±0.20% ±0.57 °C ±0.31% ±0.57 °C = (±15.6Hz) + (±0.65Hz)
Cu135 (500Ω) °C 0.14 °C ±0.15% ±0.84 °C ±0.24% ±0.84 °C = ±16.3Hz
That is, the reading is 25,000Hz ±16.3Hz at 25°C.
▲ DT505, 605, 515 and 615 only.
◆ Thermocouple accuracy figure varies slightly with thermocouple type, and applies as percentage of Celsius scale.
 Page 35
Firmware Notes
Installing Firmware
The operating system software built into the data†aker
is referred to as firmware, and is located in the system Flash
memory. The data†aker functionality is determined by the
version of firmware installed in the logger.
Whenever new versions of the data†aker firmware are
developed and released, these will be posted onto the
data†aker web site at www.datataker.com, and can be
downloaded and installed into your logger.
The posting will include an application note detailing the
procedure for installing the new firmware.
 Page 36
Index ... where to find it!

A ASCII
action
characters 13, 23 comments (' ) 2, 13
commands
display 5, 14
alarms 12
LOGON command 8
low power operation 15 S sampling
order 3
commands 9 BEGIN 3 backlight (WARN5, WARN6) 12 time (P11, 8SV) 6, 11
text 9 CALARMS 9 options (ND, /W, BG) 5, 12
accuracy 17, 34 CALARMn 9 M Macintosh connection 13
mathematical functions 7
scan
interval 3
address 1, 11, 14, 24, 25, 26
alarm 9
CARDID 8
CDATA 8
E END command 2, 3
error messages (E n ) 21
memory card 8, 12, 29
messages to COMS ports 14
order 3
trigger 3
combining 9 CLAST 8 errors, response to 21 modem connection 13 schedules 3
number 9 CLEAR 8 event multiple reports 3, 4, 12 scrolling display 12
output channels 9 COPY 8 schedules 3 multiplexer power 15, 24, 25 self heating of sensors 17
schedule 3, 9 CPROG 8 triggers ( nE, n..mE) 3 sensor wiring 4, 19, 20
arithmetic operators 7 CSCANS 3 excite terminal ( ✶ ) 4, 19, 20 networking 14 settling time (P10, 7SV) 6, 11
assignment CTEST 8 expression evaluation 7 N NOCOPY command 8 shunts, current 4, 17, 19
to parameters 11 END 3 external excitation 28 noise minimisation 17 sign on message 12
to variables 7 G, GA, GB, GC, GD, GS, GX, extra samples (ES n ) 5 SIGNOFF command 13
to digital outputs 4 GZ, GZn 3, 9 firmware 35 averaging 6 single ended
attenuated input 4, 17, 19, 26 H, HA, HB, HC, HD, HS, HX, F format of output 5, 10 input 4, 19, 22
HZ, HZ n 3, 9 frequency measurement 4, 27 order of reference input 4, 19, 22
B barchannel
graph display 10 LOGON, LOGOFF 8 function keys 12 O scanning 3 span scaling (Sn ) 6
option 5 NOCOPY 8 functions 7 Unloading 8 speaker (/V) 28
battery 15 PASSWORD 13 sampling 3 statistical sub-schedule 3
connection 1, 15, 22 Q 8 option (Gn ) 5, 22
current 6 RESET 10 G gain
Geologger 27
schedules 3
output
STATUS command 10
status screens 12
life 15, 26 RUNPROG 8 Grey code conversion (F7) 7 format 10 stop bits 1, 13
voltage 6 SIGNOFF 13 ground loops 17, 23 units 4, 6 storage capacity 8
baud rate 1, 13, 24, 25, 26 STATUS, STATUSn 10 guard (G) 6, 23 strain gauges 17
BEGIN command 1, 13 TEST, TEST n 10 parameters (P n ) 11 switches ( / ) 11
bridges 4, 17, 19, 20 U, UA, UB, UC, UD and UX 8
H H - halting schedules 3 P parity 13 synchronised scanning (/S) 3
current excitation 17 computer format mode (/H) 10, 11 high voltage measurement 4, 20, 26 PASSWORD protection 13 system timers ( n ST) 4, 6
voltage excitation 17 COMS port 1, 13 host computer 1, 13, 14 phase encoder 4, 20, 23 system variables ( n SV) 4, 6
buzzer (4WARN ) 12 isolation 12, 22, 25, 26 humidity measurement 18 polled schedule (RX) 3
conditional HZ- halting alarms 3, 9 polling alarm data (?ALL, ?n ) 9 temperature
C CALARMS command 9 scanning (:nW) 3 polynomials 7 T sensors 4, 16, 19, 28
calculations 7
by channel options 5, 7
tests 9
expressions 7
I IBM PCs 13
IF - see alarms 9
power
external connection 1, 15, 24, 25, 26
units (P36) 11
TEST command 10
calibration convert lamp 24, 25, 26, 27 immediate scans 3 consumption 15, 26 text string ($ ) 6
auto, interval (P0, /K) 11 COPY command 8 input termination 5, 22, 19 printer on COMS port 14 thermistors (YS n ) 4, 16
using spans 6 counter 4, 18, 20 interface wiring 13 program "branching" 18 thermocouples (TJ, TT etc.) 4, 16
CARDID command 8 events 3 internal channels 6, 24, 25, 26, 28, 27 program in EPROM 18 time (T) 1, 6
CDATA command 8 19200 Hz input 26 intrinsic functions 7 programming from cards 8 triggers 3
channel country setting 10, 24, 25, 26 isolation of COMS port 13, 24, 25, 26 protect program (/F) 11
expansion 27 CSCANS command 3 isothermal block 16 pulse output (nDSO( f.f,R)=1) 4 units text 3, 4, 11
factor 4, 10, 13, 17 current input 4, 19 pulse generator ( nHSCO(0)) 18 U unloading data (U) 8
loop (4 – 20mA) 4, 19
identification 3, 5, 10, 12, 28
lists 3 K keypad 12 Q Q quit Unload 8 variables ( n CV) 4, 7
numbering (/N) 3, 4, 28 data bits 13
L LCD screen 12 V version number of ROM 10
options 5 D data retrieval 8 light key 12 radians 7 vibrating wire gauges ( n FW) 4, 27
sequences 4, 28 date (D) 6 line frequency (P11, 8SV) 1, 5, 6, 27 R RAM card 8, 12 voltage input 4, 19
types 4 delay period list key 12 rate of change 5
characters, special 13 digital output 4 listing reference junction 5, 16, 28 waking by
CLAST command 8 alarm condition 9 alarms (STATUS3) 9, 10 relational operators 7 W COMS port 13
CLEAR command 8 differential input 4, 19, 23, 27 schedules (STATUS2) 3, 10 RESET command 10 network 14
clearing attenuated 26 local logger 14 resetting counters (R) 4, 5, 18 schedule 3
alarms 9 digital logging 8, 11 resistance measurement 4, 16, 19 WAKE terminal 15
card data 8 events 3 disabled 8 resolution 4, 17, 23 WARN 4, 12
card program 8 input 4 status 8 retrieval of data 8 warning LEDs (n WARN) 12
schedules 3 output 4, 19 logical operators 7 RS232, RS423 13
stored data 8 DIP switch 13, 14, 15, 24, 25, 26 LOGOFF command 8 RTD's 4, 19, 28 X XON - XOFF 10, 13
OFFICES
Head Office
Australia — Melbourne
dataTaker Pty Ltd
7 Seismic Court
Rowville Victoria 3178
Tel: 03 9764 8600 + 613 9764 8600
Fax: 03 9764 8997 +613 9764 8997
Email: [email protected]

Offices
United Kingdom
dataTaker Ltd
Shepreth
Cambridgeshire
DATATAKER

SG8 6GB
Tel: +44 (0) 1763 264780
Fax: +44 (0) 1763 262410
email: [email protected]

United States of America

dataTaker Inc,
22961 Triton Way Suite E
Laguna Hills CA 92653-1230
Tel: 1-800-9-LOGGER
Tel: 949 452 0750 +1 949 452 0750
Fax: 949 452 1170 +1 949 452 1170
Email: [email protected]
Worldwide Dealer Network
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Your Local Dealer

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