Datalogger Protocol

Materials and Equipment Needed

  1. Hobo datalogger(s)
  2. BoxCar Pro software

Safety Issues

None

Time Required

Setting the datalogger to record and transferring data to the computer can be done in minimal amounts of time, although some time may need to be spent with the software manual the first time or two.

Procedure

Step Image
Dataloggers are in the drawer labeled pH meters and thermometers.  To launch (start) the datalogger, remove the cap from the cable connection port.

Insert the cable (connected to Thrips 2) into the port.
Open the BoxCar Pro software on Thrips 2.  If you do not have a login, ask someone who does to help you. Click on the "launch" button on the toolbar.

 

Set the interval at which you would like to collect data.  While amount of data output can be reduced when exporting files to excel, choose a sampling interval reasonable for the data collection purpose.  Data sets can become too large for excel to handle.  Check the battery status.  The logger will not launch if there is not sufficient battery life, indicating that the battery needs to be replaced. Click "Start."

 

Be aware that launching the data logger erases any data currently in the memory.  Click "Yes," remove the cable for the datalogger, replace the cap, and place the logger in the desired location.  Loggers are water resistant but not water proof.  Don't submerse them.

 

When you are ready to download data, connect the computer cable to the port on the datalogger.  Click the "readout logger" button on the toolbar.
The software will ask you where to save the file.  Files are saved in .dtf format.  Exporting files to excel format is done after saving the files as .dtf.  See below.
The dialog box at right will automatically appear.  The series which are checked will be used to created a graph.  Check or uncheck boxes as desired. Click "OK."
A plot of the selected series will appear.  See software manual if you would like to modify how the data is displayed.  The plot may be printed from this screen by using the toolbar button.
To export the data as a text file to excel, click on the "export excel" button on the toolbar.
Select the series you would like to export.  Multiple series can be selected.  Click "Export."
Save the file as a text (.txt) file.  The file can then be opened in excel.