What Is Novus FieldLogger?

FieldLogger is a multi channel data logger from Novus Automation which can be mounted to DIN rail. It has 8 universal inputs for logging temperature and common analogue signals such as 4-20mA. In addition there are 8 digital channels and 2 relay outputs. It also has various communication options such as Ethernet and RS485. Overall each FieldLogger can record up to 100 channels simultaneously!

Do I Need The HMI Option?

The HMI allows for some basic visualisation of live data, alarms and parameters. It is a small LCD display which can be clipped directly to the FieldLogger or mounted remotely. It is not essential to use the HMI as communication can be achieved with the built in USB or Ethernet depending on model.

Some customers like to use the HMI as it allows you to view 6 channels of live data simultaneously. Providing a quick visual check of the device.

What Kind Of Data Can I Log?

You can log far more than just temperature. Although all standard temperature sensors are supported the universal inputs allow selection of 4-20mA and 0-10V signals. Digital inputs with logic 0 and logic 1 for simple on/off can also be logged.

Users have successfully logged humidity, pressure, level, flow, current and more!

What Kind Of Applications Does This Suit?

Typically FieldLoggers are used to gather data in laboratories, industrial processes, environmental, energy supply and distribution. They are an extremely versatile device which can be adapted to your project requirements. 

Just some of the places you can find them include: Factories, Universities, Hospitals, Solar Farms and Data Centres. 

How Can I Add This Device To A Network?

For data transmission, you should use the ethernet network using the Modbus TCP protocol. This is fastest way to communicate between a computer and FieldLogger. FieldLogger supports ethernet 10/100 Mbps networks.

Please note the Slave model is not equipped with an Ethernet port.

Can You Read Modbus RTU Data Sensors?

With the serial function it is possible to read Modbus Registers using the RS485 Master version of FieldLogger. Sensors equipped with RS485 terminals can be scanned every 100 mS. That means, you could read and record up to 64 Modbus Slaves every 100 mS.

What Is The Sample Rate For Analog Inputs?

The sample rate will depend on the number of the channels you are reading and recording at same time.

Limits:

1 channel at 1000 loggings per second

2 channels at 500 loggings per second

4 channels at 250 loggings per second,

8 channels at 125 loggings per second.

What Are The Limits For Reading Digital Inputs?

Maximum pulse frequency for counting (square wave): 250 Hz

Minimum pulse time in logic level “0”: 2 ms

Minimum pulse time in logic level “1”: 2 ms

Number of bits for counting: 32 bits

How Does The Memory Work?

Regarding the FieldLogger memory, its internal memory is 2 MB and supports 512.000 records with time stamp. That means, each record takes 4 bytes of memory space, totalizing 512.000 records. This information is useful when you are using an SD Card to expand the internal memory. For example if you use an SD card with 2GB you can store 512.000.000 records (or 1.000 times more than the internal memory).

Using just the internal memory, if you want to know how long the internal memory could keep data recording 8 channels with a frequency of 15 seconds each:

8 x 4 = 32 records per minute

32 x 60 = 1,920 records per hour

1920 x 24 = 46,080 records per day

512.000 / 46,080 = 11 days and 2,6 hours

With the 512K internal memory you can increase the recording history by reducing the number of channels or slowing down the recording time. If this is not feasible then we recommend simple expansion with an SD card. This will dramatically enhance the memory.

How Long Is The Warranty?

The warranty period is the standard 3 years offered by Novus Automation and supported by us.

Is The Software Free?

The basic software is completely free. This includes the main configuration software 'FieldLogger Configurator'. Everything you need to setup and extract data is provided at no charge. This also includes Nxperience and FieldChart Lite.

If you choose to interface with the Cloud or any 3rd party applications then there may be a cost from those providers. 

Can I Get Support Easily?

We offer UK support directly and will always aim to provide as much assistance as possible. You can also raise a support ticket directly with Novus. This covers all aspects of setting up the device and troubleshooting.

Please also note the full product manual is comprehensive and can be downloaded from the product pages on our website.

Do You Have Any Videos To Help With Setup?

We recommend the below official playlist provided by Novus Automation. You can navigate through the videos using the link in the top right hand corner of the pane.