An important part of preparing for a temperature mapping study is choosing the right type and amount of data loggers. Here are 13 things you should consider in the process.
Also read: Comparison: USB Data Loggers vs. Eupry’s wireless
13 considerations when choosing data loggers for your temperature mapping study
- Installation: What is the level of difficulty of installation and will you need technical expertise? Complex installations may require specialized training or outside contractors, adding to both cost and project timelines.
- Accuracy: How precise do the measurements for your mapping need to be? How narrow are your acceptance criteria? The accuracy can range from 2°C to approximately 0.05°C depending on the use.
- Response time: How is the response time? Slow response time will artificially buffer fluctuating data, which will impact the data received. Delays in response times can compromise the integrity of your data and affect decision-making.
Also read: 4 key players you should include in your temperature mapping study - Internal/external sensor: Is it an internal or external sensor? An internal sensor creates an air buffer that affects the measurements meaning that the highest and lowest temperatures might not be recorded. Therefore, I recommend external sensors since they are located in free space.
- Materials: Stainless steel or plastic? When you are deciding between stainless steel and plastic, you have to think about your specific needs and the environment in which the data logger will be used. Stainless steel is robust, durable, and better for high-temperature environments. If you’re working in an ATEX area—a location where an explosive atmosphere is present—then stainless steel is likely your go-to. On the flip side, plastic is more cost-effective but may not hold up well in extreme conditions. So, ask yourself: What does your space demand?
- Logging frequency: What is the minimum frequency you require to log? For freezers, you usually want something between a 10-second to a 3-minute logging interval. The idea is to capture enough data without overwhelming your system. Missing the boat on logging frequency can leave you with gaps in your data, making your temperature mapping less reliable.
- Memory size: Data is gold. But storing it? That can be another story. In the mapping case, running out of memory is a no-go, so think about how many logs/data points you need to be able to record for your specific mapping. Too little memory, and you’re stuck with incomplete or truncated data, which can mess up your analysis. Check the specs and make sure the logger’s memory size aligns with your objectives.
- Range: Will you be mapping a warehouse, a standard fridge, or a -80°C freezer? When it comes to data loggers for temperature mapping, the range is more than just a number. Whether you’re looking at a sprawling warehouse or a tiny, sub-zero freezer, your logger needs to cover it all. A logger designed for a standard fridge won’t cut it in a -80°C environment. Know your extremes—both hot and cold—and make sure your logger can handle them.
- Calibration: Do the dataloggers come with a certificate documenting that they have been calibrated within a reasonable timespan?
Also read: 8 calibration components you should have ready for an audit of temperature compliance - Battery: How’s the battery lifetime? You don’t want to be forced to redo the study because the battery fails.
- Compliance: You are in the life sciences industry; you know the drill. Compliance isn’t just a boring checkmark; it is vital. Make sure your data logger meets the relevant standards and regulations specific to your market. This can range from ISO certifications to FDA guidelines, depending on where you operate. Is your logger up to code?
Also read: 7 questions: Obtaining FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance in pharma and biotech - Software: Is the software suitable for documentation, reporting, and review? Is it 21 CFR Part 11-ready, and can you meet your URS, Installation Qualification (IQ), and Operational Qualification (OQ)? Ensure it is flexible enough to apply calculations and process complex data. Some software also provides clear graphical data by compiling all data loggers in one graph.
- Support: Is support available if you need help completing the mapping study? It might not be relevant, but it’s something that some equipment providers offer.
9 temperature mapping mistakes to avoid
The technical details of wireless data loggers designed for temperature mappings
Yes, our wireless data loggers DO tick the important boxes (thanks for asking). If you’re curious about the specifics, check out our free product catalog.
Simplify your temperature mappings with a mapping kit
Reduce the time you spend on mappings and increase the quality level with a temperature mapping kit.
It contains wireless data loggers and specialized mapping software that will save you time, costs, and compliance headaches.
“The Eupry data loggers were easy and convenient to set up, the flexibility of the system offers the possibility to be aware of any change whenever there is a problem, and more importantly, the archives which hold all data in the cloud can be achieved at all times.“
Elvis Bergue
Electromechanical and Water Manager at Axonova
”I believe that Eupry truly understands its customers’ needs. They have invented a system, that is simple and does everything it promises.”
Allan Witt
GDP Responsible Person at Worldwide Flight Services
With the mapping solution,
you will be able to
- identify issues instantly to reduce risks.
- get a full digital report tracking the whole study.
- easily review certifications before the mapping.
