Data loggers are discreet, flexible and easy to use. They can be supplied in unobtrusive colours so as not to detract from exhibits, and versions with external probes are available for sealed display cases or difficult to reach areas. Data loggers with digital displays that give spot readings as well as continuous recording can also be supplied. Loggers can be moved to different locations, or more units added over time to build profiles throughout a museum, gallery or site.

Using Tinytag data loggers

Using Tinytag data loggers and downloading the information is simple and straightforward, and is not time-consuming, which may be a factor in sites with few staff or those relying on the services of different volunteers. A few simple steps are all that is needed to start logging. Firstly install the Tinytag Explorer Software. The loggers are connected to a PC with a USB cable and can then be set up, with various options to choose from, including adding a description to label the data, and setting the logging interval (that is, the time between each reading is taken). An alarm indicator can be set to indicate if readings fall outside a user defined range. Typically, this may be between 17-21°C for a museum, in line with human comfort levels, or 12-15°C in stores to slow down the degradation of objects. Once set up is complete, the loggers are ready to use.Their battery life allows them to be left recording for long periods, and changing the batteries/servicing is inexpensive and can be carried out by the user.

At the end of the period of recording, the data logger is connected again to the computer to download the data. Loggers used with external probes allow the probe to be located within a display case, and the logger itself outside it, so data can be retrieved from the logger without opening the case.Tinytag Explorer initially displays the data as in graphs and tables which can easily be printed, copied and pasted, or exported into other software packages for report writing purposes.

Watch a five minute video on how to use Tinytag data loggers

Tinytag Radio data loggers

Tinytag radio data loggers provide an effective solution in museums, galleries and artefact stores with multiple monitoring points, or those requiring immediate central access to readings as well as logging over time. Radio loggers gather data automatically and send it using wireless communications via a receiver for viewing on a PC, across a LAN, or remotely across the internet. Radio loggers are easy to set up using Tinytag Explorer. Simply install the software, connect the receiver and switch on the radio loggers: the whole system will then self-configure to allow data to be viewed and the loggers managed. If readings fall outside the user-defined range, alarm warnings can be sent via email or SMS enabling corrective action to be initiated.

Radio loggers include discreet units for unobtrusive indoor use, and as well as monitoring temperature and humidity, units are available to monitor count which can provide footfall data which can be important for the heritage sector.

Watch a five minute video on how to use the Tinytag Radio System

A flexible solution

Monitoring with both stand alone data loggers and the radio system provides a very flexible solution. Loggers can be moved to different locations, or more units added over time to build profiles throughout a site, or as premises or the area to be monitored is expanded. View the full Tinytag data loggers range for museums, galleries and archives.