Data Harvest Educational: Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

DATALOGGER FAQ:

How fast can the datalogger record?
The datalogger can collect data up to a rate of 28,571 times per second with all its six inputs.

Can multiple loggers be used effectively in one computer classroom?
Yes! Measurements for most computers can be recorded remotely and later uploaded to a computer to be analyzed. Ideally a printer should be readily available so that the graphs and tables can be printed.

How do analog and digital sensors differ?
Analog sensors measure variances in levels, such as temperature, light and pH. A large majority of our sensors are of the analog type. Digital sensors measure when and how long an event occurred. For example, Light Gates are digital sensors as they measure when and how long an infrared beam is broken. From this timing data, velocities and accelerations can be quickly calculated. Digital sensors can also be used to count on/off events.

Do timing and analog sensors operate with the same software?
The Sensing Science Laboratory software features three separate applications for capturing and analyzing data: Graph, Meters and Timing. Analog sensors work with Graph and Meters whereas the timing sensors work strictly with the Timing application.

Do the internal rechargeable batteries ever need to be replaced?
Most likely you will not have to replace your EasySense datalogger's batteries for at least 7 years. The dataloggers should be sent back to Data Harvest's US facility for battery replacement.

How long do the batteries last on a single charge?
Battery life depends on how you're using the data logger. Short real-time recording sessions consume considerably more power than remote long-term recording sessions. Increasing the number of recording sensors also increases the rate of power consumption. Regardless of the mode of operation, the EasySense systems are very energy-efficient and will provide many hours of continuous operation.

How do I determine if the data logger needs to be recharged?
The LCD screen on the datalogger displays the remaining minutes/hours of power for both real-time and remote operation. To ensure accuracy, the power status feature accounts for the number of sensors that are connected.

How durable are the loggers?
The dataloggers are designed to survive a four-foot drop onto a hard surface.

How many sensors are available for the EasySense loggers?
The EasySense range has just been launched and nearly 20 sensors are already available. Within a year the number of available sensors should grow to about 40.

How complicated are the dataloggers to operate?
Students can learn how to collect data remotely within a minute. To learn all the remote features of the EasySence system will take about an hour. For real-time data collection there is very little that the student needs to know about the datalogger.

How much data can the datalogger store?
The system can store data from multiple recording sessions. The maximum storage capacity will depend on the number of sensors used and the average size of the data sets. Assuming the average number of sensors used is 3 and the average number of samples is 1000 for each sensor, then the datalogger will be able to store approximately 40 sessions.

Is the datalogger compatible with sensors from other companies?
By the summer we should have a Vernier adaptor available and most likely by 2001 we'll have a Pasco adaptor.

SENSOR FAQ:

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Why are SmartQ sensors superior to conventional sensors?
Each SmartQ sensor is equipped with auto-identifying circuitry. This enables EasySense and the Sensing Science software to immediately identify all connected sensors. This saves students the time-consuming task of manually selecting each sensor. SmartQ sensors also have a built-in calibration table that enhances the sensor's accuracy. An expanded explanation of the benefits of the SmartQ sensor design are also available by clicking here.

How many SmartQ sensors are available?
Over 20 sensors are available available today. This number will greatly expand over the following 12 months. By 2001, we anticipate there will be over 35 SmartQ sensors available.

Do I have to calibrate SmartQ sensors?
The vast majority of SmartQ sensors never need to be manually calibrated. The exceptions to this are the pH and Oxygen sensors. With pH, the user has a choice: if superior accuracy is not a requirement of the investigation (the student may be more concerned with changes as oppose to specific measurements) then the calibration process can be bypassed. Alternatively, if accuracy is a concern then the user can calibrate the pH sensor to a known standard. Fortunately the calibration table resides within the actual sensor and therefore superior accuracy can be maintained for future uses without having to recalibrate each time. The Oxygen sensor needs to be calibrated for each use.

How many sensors can EasySense accommodate at the same time?
Measurements from any combination of six or fewer sensors can be simultaneously recorded with both EasySense Logger and Advanced.

What types of sensors can be used with the EasySense data loggers?
The Laboratory's Sensing Science software and EasySense logger are compatible with both analog and digital sensors. Analog sensors record measurements that deal changes in a level - such as sound intensity, temperature or light. Digital sensors, such as Light Gates, record measurements in time - when did something happen and for how long.

SOFTWARE FAQ:

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In what ways is the data displayed in the software?
As tables, bar charts and graphs.

Can data be exported to other programs?
Yes! Graphs and Charts can be quickly copied and pasted into word processing and desktop publishing programs whereas tabled data can be copied to Excel or other spreadsheet programs.

How many sensors can be plotted simultaneously on the graph?
Up to six sensors can be simultaneously plotted onto a single graph. Clicking on the sensor's 'readout' box can quickly hide individual sensor plots. This enables the user to isolate a specific sensor plot.

MISCELLANEOUS FAQ:

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With regards to probe systems what is the difference between a datalogger and a computer interface?
A computer interface instantly relays sensor measurements to a computer for analysis and display. A computer interface is not capable of working independently and therefore cannot be used for remote data collections. A datalogger can behave as an interface but has internal memory and power source and can collect and store data while fully disconnected from the computer.

What is the warranty for the Logger and SmartQ sensors?
All hardware items from Data Harvest come with a one-year warranty against defects.

How long has Data Harvest been in business?
Data Harvest was founded in the UK in 1983. From the very beginning the company's main area of business has been in producing and distributing probe systems.

What guarantees do you offer regarding customer satisfaction?
All purchases can be refunded in full within 60 days of purchase.