Data Logger

A data logger is an electronic device that records data over time with a built in sensor. Increasingly, but not entirely, they are based on a digital processor or computer. They generally are small, battery powered, portable, and equipped with a microprocessor, internal memory for data storage, and sensors. Some data loggers interface with a personal computer and utilize software to activate the data logger and view and analyze the collected data, while others have a local interface device (keypad, LCD) and can be used as a stand-alone device. In ICT courses, we was introduced to use data logger during the experiment session. This is to let us to get used with data logger functions. During the experiment, we found that using data logger is more effective than traditional method. Below are several advantages by using data logger:

• Time intervals for collecting data can be very frequent and regular, for example hundred measurements for seconds.

• Data logging is more often accurate because there is no likelihood of human error.

• Can directly plot the graph.

• Better understanding of scientific experiment.

• Can save time as the work is done by the data logger.

• More than one sensor can be use at one time.

However, we found that there are several disadvantages of using data logger which are:

• If the data logger equipment breakdown or malfunctions, some data could be lost and not recorded.

• Reducing the practice of graphing skill.

• The equipment are expensive.

I feel so lucky that we have the opportunities to use the data logger because we learnt something new that can make science education more easier and practical.