How to Connect Data Loggers on a Network

Use an existing Ethernet network to connect to and monitor Veriteq data loggers remotely on an on-going basis. By tying into an existing network, you can set up flexible and expandable data logging systems that display real-time data, automatically back-up and store data logger information, send e-mail alarms, and much more.

Using an existing network allows users to start small and add additional monitoring points as required. By tapping into your existing Ethernet system, you avoid hard-wiring and cabling costs and can easily move data loggers around to suit multiple applications.

A networked system combines the advantages of a centralized hard-wired system — remote monitoring, alarming, reporting, and data back-up — with the reliability and flexibility of a chart recorder system (localized data storage and minimal wiring).

Easy Network Connections

To connect a Veriteq data logger to a network, a product called a "device server" is used. Also referred to as "Ethernet to serial adapters" or "RS-232 to TCP/IP converters." Device servers are hardware products that interface serial devices, such as Veriteq data loggers, to common TCP/IP Ethernet networks.

Device servers are small boxes that have one or more serial ports on one side and an Ethernet connector on the other side. They are essentially tiny microcomputers that convert the serial communication used by the Veriteq data loggers into TCP/IP (the communications standard used on the Internet). This allows an easy exchange of information between the serial device and the network.

The device servers work by creating virtual COM ports on a network PC that are addressable by a host PC on the network or, with Veriteq's viewLinc software, any other PC on the network.

To get started with Ethernet data logging, refer to "Ethernet Data Logging: 5 Easy Steps".

Advantages of Ethernet Data Logging

Ethernet connectivity has several key benefits:

• Easy Connectivity
  Monitor large numbers of data loggers and monitor multiple points on a single computer or from several PCs on the network.
  
  
• Reliable Communications
  Ethernet supports reliable communications up to 320 ft. (100m), and this distance can be multiplied with the use of repeaters to amplify the signal.
  
  
• Automatic Data Back-up
  Always have the security of gap-free data — on one or more network PC's as well as at each data logger.
  
  
• Reduced Costs
  Eliminate the cost and time associated with stringing wires or setting up a completely separate network.
  
  
• Stay Informed
  Being continually connected allows you to monitor data logger data, remotely and on a real-time basis. Have peace of mind knowing that you will be alerted to any important events or changes.

For more information, please contact us.