OpenLogger:A High-resolution, Wi-Fi Enabled, Open Source, Portable Data Logger

OpenLogger is a portable, open source, low-cost, high-resolution data logger designed to provide high-quality measurements without requiring expensive software or writing software from scratch. If you are an engineer, scientist, or enthusiast who needs to collect data over a long period of time, but have been hindered by the restrictions of other data loggers, then OpenLogger is for you!

Step 1: Simultaneous Streaming and Logging

Most data loggers require users to choose between live data visualization while physically connected to a PC, or blindly logging to local storage. In addition to a microSD card for local storage, OpenLogger features both Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for live streaming. This enables users to stream data for real-time visualization via Wi-Fi or USB, log data to the SD card, or both at the same time. When a physical connection to a computer is impossible or risky, a wireless connection is a must.

Step 2: Features & Specifications

Analog Inputs
- Eight channels
- 16-bit resolution
- 50 kHz analog bandwidth
- Log up to 500 kS/sec to microSD card
- Stream up to 200 kS/sec via USB
- Stream up to 10 kS/sec via Wi-Fi
- ±10 V input, protected up to 30 Vpp
Analog Outputs
- One channel
- 10-bit resolution
- 1 MHz bandwidth (-3 dB)
- 10 MS/s sampling rate
- 3 Vpp
- Sine, triangle, sawtooth, square, and DC outputs

Step 3: WaveForms Live

You shouldn’t need to pay for expensive software to use your data logger. That’s why we made WaveForms Live, an open source, free, browser-based application for manipulating and visualizing data from OpenLogger and other devices. OpenLogger streams data to WaveForms Live through Wi-Fi or USB. You can check it out right now at WaveFormsLive.com.

Step 4: Why Wi-Fi? Electrical Isolation and Untethered Operation

Wi-Fi connectivity lets you remain electrically isolated from the device under test. It also lets you connect to a mobile platform, such as a car, where a cable connection is not an option. This combination of features makes OpenLogger a great choice for a wide range of applications. For example:

A mechanical engineer measuring the g-force on a mobile robot can take advantage of wireless connectivity and browser-based software to get up and running quickly, visualizing live data remotely.

An electrical engineer measuring the hot spots on a circuit board can place temperature probes in eight different places on the board and log data to an SD card for accurate measurements over time.

An electronics enthusiast at home can connect OpenLogger to a current probe and measure the power usage of each circuit in their house while keeping their PC electrically isolated from high currents and taking advantage of the embeddable nature of OpenLogger.

Step 5: Screw Terminal Adapter

The optional Screw Terminal Adapter mounts securely on top of OpenLogger to provide screw terminal access to the analog inputs, analog output, power supplies, digital I/O, 5 V, and ground. The Screw Terminal Adapter also provides male pin access to trigger in and out, program and reset, and ground.

Step 6: Measure Everything

Since OpenLogger is a flexible logger that doesn’t require a tethered connection and can be connected to virtually any analog sensor, the possible applications are truly endless. For example:

Monitor the different electrical circuits in your house to check for unexpected power use.

Measure and plot in real time the stress on various parts of a structure.

Set up a health monitoring system with some electrodes, air pressure sensors, and tubing to monitor heart rate and respiration.

Attach OpenLogger to a robot and stream data from sensors and motors while in motion.

Monitor the temperature of various sections of a board inside an enclosure to test for hot spots.

Monitor a fish tank for temperature, water quality, and water flow to ensure a healthy environment for your fish.

Measure and plot the temperature change of various parts of your Thanksgiving turkey - you’ll be able to see and analyze the different rates that the leg, breast, wing, and stuffing cook over time