1. Introduction

Data Acquisition Systems can be connected to using three different types of software, these being PC200W, PC400 and Loggernet. In this article we will provide a description of each piece of software as well as pros and cons to using each.

2. PC200W

PC200W is the most basic of the three software pieces, it allows you to configure and read a logger via direct connection, it also support the use of Campbell Shortcut software for writing and installing datalogger programs if you have the know how.

Pros:

Free to download and use

Allows you to fully control and read a logger via direct connection

The easiest to pick up and use of the three

Cons:

Does not allow you to remotely configure or read from a logger

Does not support scheduled data collection

3. PC400

PC400 is the middle of the road option for datalogger software, it has some more features than PC200W, but less than Loggernet. This has all the features of PC200W, with the added ability to be connected to by phone modem, multidrop module and more for a choice of simple remote connection options.

Pros:

Cheaper than Loggernet

Allows control of a logger via direct connect, phone modem, multidrop, Ethernet and radio.

Easy to pick up and use

Cons:

More expensive than PC200W

Does not support scheduled data collection

4. Loggernet

The most powerful of the three options, this is the option we recommend to most customers, as scheduled data collection and the full range of graphing options are often crucial to a successful monitoring plan. This software allows you to connect to a logger with a wide range of communication options, build custom display screens to specific requirements, graph data in real time and much more.

Pros:

Allows the full range of communication options; direct connect, phone modem, multidrop, Ethernet, radio, satellite, IP connection, short haul and more

Allows for scheduled data collection, allowing for a fully automated monitoring solution

Gives a wide range of graphing options, allowing the data to be shown in the most applicable way

Allows you to build custom display screens to show the data how you want to

Cons:

The most expensive solution of the three

The most complex to learn of the three (still quite easy)

If you have any further queries, or would like to learn more about which logger solution is best for you, please submit a support ticket or call Soil Instruments on +44 01825 765044 for advice.

Checked MO'R v1.0 13/05/15