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How a Hygrometer Helps You Achieve a Balanced Environment

A hygrometer is a device that measures the humidity, or the amount of moisture, in the air. Hygrometers play an important role in various aspects of our lives. These include improving measurements for comfort and health to environment preservation and agriculture. In this blog post, we will explain what hygrometers are, why humidity matters, and how hygrometers can help you create and maintain a balanced environment.

What is a Hygrometer?

A hygrometer is a device similar to a thermometer, but one that measures the level of water vapor in the air (humidity) rather than temperature. There are different types of hygrometers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, but they all share the same purpose: to tell you how humid the air is.

Why is Measuring Humidity Important?

Humidity affects many aspects of our daily lives, and it can have both positive and negative effects, depending on the situation. Too much or too little humidity can cause problems such as:

Comfort

High humidity can make the air feel hot and sticky, making it difficult to find relief even in the shade or indoors with air conditioning. On the other hand, low humidity can make the air feel dry and cold, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. Maintaining a comfortable humidity level is essential for a pleasant living environment.

Health

High humidity can promote the growth of mold, bacteria, and viruses, which can cause respiratory problems and infections. Prolonged exposure to environments with high humidity can exacerbate allergies and asthma symptoms. In contrast, low humidity can dry out your skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, increasing the risk of irritation, nosebleeds, and respiratory infections. It is important to maintain a balanced humidity level to protect your health and well-being.

Making sure humidity levels are nominal is especially important for sensitive environments such as clean rooms, pharmacy storage, reagents, surgery/OR, and anywhere medical equipment and pharmaceutical drugs are stored.

Preservation

Humidity can affect the quality and durability of various items, such as musical instruments, artwork, and wine collections. High humidity can cause warping, swelling, and corrosion of wooden instruments, as well as mold growth on paintings and other art pieces. Conversely, low humidity can cause cracking, shrinking, and brittleness in wooden instruments and damage delicate paintings. Proper humidity control is vital for preserving and maintaining the value of these items.

Agriculture

Humidity plays a crucial role in the growth and development of plants, including cannabis, as they need a certain amount of moisture to survive and thrive. High humidity can cause fungal diseases and pest infestations in plants, while low humidity can lead to wilting, dehydration, and reduced crop yield. Maintaining optimal humidity levels is essential for successful plant growth and ensuring a healthy harvest.

Types of Hygrometers

There are many types of hygrometers available, each with its own characteristics and applications. Some of the most common types are:

Mechanical Hygrometer

This is a traditional type of hygrometer. A mechanical hydrometer uses a natural or synthetic material, such as hair or fiber, to measure humidity. The material changes its length or shape according to the moisture level in the air. This moves a needle on a dial to indicate the relative humidity.

Electronic Hygrometer

This is a modern type of hygrometer that uses a sensor, such as a capacitive or resistive sensor, to measure humidity. The sensor changes its electrical properties according to the moisture level in the air. This converts to a digital signal displayed on an LCD screen. This type of hygrometer is accurate, precise, and fast, but may require calibration and maintenance.

Psychrometer

A psychrometer is a type of hygrometer that uses two thermometers, one with a wet bulb and one with a dry bulb, to measure humidity. The wet bulb is covered with a moist cloth, which cools down due to the evaporation of water. The dry bulb measures the ambient temperature. The difference between the two temperatures is used to calculate the relative humidity, using a formula or a chart.

Dew Point Hygrometer

Dew point hygrometers measure the temperature at which the air becomes saturated with water vapor, also known as the dew point. The dew point is related to the relative humidity, as the higher the dew point, the higher the humidity. Dew point hygrometers use a mirror or a metal surface, which is cooled down until condensation forms on the surface. Then, the temperature of the surface is measured. This is very accurate and sensitive, and it may require a power source and a cooling system.

Conclusion

Hygrometers are devices that measure the humidity, or the amount of moisture, in the air. They are useful for various purposes, such as comfort, health, preservation, and agriculture. By using hygrometers, you can monitor and control the humidity levels in different environments and achieve a balanced atmosphere.

Power of Precision: Benefits of NIST Traceable Digital Bottle Thermometers

Temperature monitoring is crucial in many industries, especially in the food industry and for scientific research. You need a reliable and accurate device that can measure and display the temperature of your products, samples, or surroundings. That’s why you should consider using NIST traceable digital bottle thermometers. These are innovative devices that offer many benefits and are easy to use. Let’s see how they work and why they are essential tools for temperature measurement.

Digital Bottle Thermometers: What Are They and How Do They Work?

A digital bottle thermometer consists of a probe that senses the temperature and a plastic bottle that protects the probe. A liquid medium inside the bottle protects the probe from abrupt temperature changes. The thermometer features an easy-to-read digital display that shows the temperature. These thermometers are useful in a variety of environments and applications, including ambient research laboratories, clean rooms and storage closets.

What is NIST Traceability?

NIST traceability refers to a process in which a measurement or calibration is directly or indirectly related to a national standard. This standard is maintained by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The standard ensures that measurements and calibrations are accurate and consistent across different laboratories and industries. This in turn ultimately promotes confidence in the accuracy of results. Traceability is essential for maintaining quality control, facilitating trade, and complying with regulatory requirements. Find out more about NIST Traceable standards.

Benefits of NIST Traceable Digital Bottle Thermometers

Unmatched Accuracy

Digital bottle thermometers are known for their high level of accuracy, ensuring that you get precise temperature readings every time. This is particularly important in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and research. In these industries, even a small deviation in temperature can have significant consequences.

Easy to Read

The digital display on these thermometers makes it simple to read and monitor temperature readings. This is especially useful in busy environments where time is of the essence. For example, if you need to quickly assess the temperature of your products or samples.

Versatile Applications

Digital bottle thermometers can be used in a wide range of applications, including ambient research laboratories, clean rooms, and storage closets. This versatility makes them a valuable tool for professionals across various industries, as well as for everyday use at home.

User-Friendly

Digital bottle thermometers are designed with the user in mind, offering a user-friendly interface and easy-to-understand instructions. This makes them accessible to users of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

Long-Lasting Performance

With a replaceable battery, digital bottle thermometers offer long-lasting performance, ensuring that you can rely on them for accurate temperature readings for years to come.

Conclusion

NIST Traceable digital bottle thermometers are devices that can improve your temperature monitoring capabilities. They offer many benefits, such as high accuracy, easy reading, multiple applications, waterproof and durable design, user-friendliness, and long-lasting performance. They’re essential tools for professionals and individuals who value precision and accuracy in temperature monitoring. NIST Traceable digital thermometers are a smart investment for anyone who wants vastly improved temperature monitoring.

Learn more about NIST traceable digital bottle thermometers and explore a variety of options available for purchase.

How to Change Infrared Thermometer from Celsius to Fahrenheit

Infrared thermometers are innovative devices that have revolutionized temperature measurement. These devices measure the temperature of objects in both Fahrenheit and Celsius units without the need for physical contact. They operate by detecting and measuring the infrared radiation emitted by the surface of the object. This makes infrared thermometers incredibly useful for measuring the temperature of hard-to-reach or potentially dangerous places, such as electrical equipment, engines, pipes, or food, and they can even be used alongside a temperature data logger.

Understanding Infrared Thermometers

Infrared thermometers usually feature a digital display that shows the temperature reading. This display can present the temperature in either Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F), depending on the user’s preference or the requirements of the task at hand. The ability to switch between these two units is a standard feature in most models. However, the exact method for switching may vary depending on the specific model and brand of your infrared thermometer. Therefore, it is crucial to read the user manual carefully before using your infrared thermometer. This will ensure you understand all its features and how to use them effectively.

For example, with the ScanTemp 485 Handheld Infrared Thermometer, the following instructions apply:

Changing the Temperature Unit from Celsius to Fahrenheit

To change the temperature unit from Celsius to Fahrenheit on the TFA ScanTemp 485 thermometer, follow these steps:

  1. Locate the battery compartment on the thermometer.
  2. Open the battery compartment and look for a slide switch labeled “°C/°F” inside.
  3. Slide the switch to the desired temperature unit. For Fahrenheit, slide the switch to the “°F” position.
  4. Close the battery compartment securely.
  5. The thermometer will now display temperature readings in the selected unit (Fahrenheit).

Please note that the specific location and design of the switch may vary slightly depending on the model of the thermometer. Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions and illustrations specific to the TFA ScanTemp 485 thermometer.

If you are unable to locate the switch or encounter any difficulties, it is recommended to consult the user manual or contact customer support for further assistance.

Getting Help

If you encounter any questions or problems with your infrared thermometer, please contact the customer service of your product’s manufacturer. They can provide expert advice and solutions. You can also visit their website for more information and support. Many manufacturers offer detailed guides, FAQs, and troubleshooting tips online.

How to Set Up and Use AccuTherm™ VFC SmartLOG 2021 Data Logger with Wireless Temperature Sensors

ACCSL2021 SmartLOG® is a WiFi enabled Digital Data Logger (DDL) (also called SmartLOG in this article) featuring wireless external sensor(s) which monitor and record temperature of up to two appliances simultaneously. This could be any combination of refrigerators, freezers, and/or ambient temperature.

The DDL scans for the wireless sensor(s) in 1 minute intervals retrieving temperature, battery and signal data. This data is analyzed to look for temperature swings, limited battery life, or a lack of data indicating a wireless sensor signal loss. The SmartLOG® will notify the contacts specified on the dashboard’s settings page via text message and email if any of these criteria hold true. A temperature excursion will cause a visual alert LED and audible buzzer to sound. The main DDL display screen and dashboard are refreshed with the most recent values by the logger.

Features of the wireless sensor(s) include no wires to be jumbled in/out of appliance ports, appliance seals being breached or requirement to be returned for calibration services. Simply source a new wireless sensor (ACCSLBLET) and pair with the existing DDL.

A web browser is used via PC or Smart device to access the SmartLOG® dashboard. Using the dashboard, you configure and adjust sensor settings, produce PDF reports for regulatory compliance, monitor all DDL statistics, and review status of monitored appliances.

Wireless Temperature Sensor(s) Setup

To set up the ACCSL2021 wireless temperature sensor(s), follow these steps:

  1. Install 2 AAA batteries. Rotate the clip cap 1/8 degree counterclockwise to release it.
  2. Insert the negative end of the batteries first.
  3. Press in and twist 1/8 turn clockwise to bring the printed arrows on the clip cap and sensor into close alignment with one another.
  4. Press the power button until the blue LED flashes five times to turn on the wireless sensor. Every ten seconds, the LED should flash. To power off the sensor, press the power button until the LED flashes two times, then release the button.
  5. Locate the four-digit serial number on the rear of the sensor or sensors, write it down, and link it to the intended P1/P2 on the settings page (e.g., P1 Name: Fridge SN# 000E)
  6. Place wireless sensor in storage unit to be monitored. Allow the sensor temperature to equilibrate before setting up DDL parameters. This will require you to wait approximately 60 minutes. 

SmartLOG® Digital Data Logger (DDL) Setup

NOTE: The following instructions are only necessary on the initial Start-up of SmartLOG®. All configuration settings will be saved in the DDL memory.

To set up the SmartLOG DDL, follow these steps:

  1. Place three AA batteries in the compartment behind the DDL. To open, slide the cover down. Batteries are for backup ONLY! Use wall 110V AC adapter as your main power source.
  2. Use a USB cable to attach the wall 110VAC adapter to the DDL, then insert the AC adapter into the wall outlet.
  3. Press and hold the SmartLOG DDL’s ON button, located on the back of the device until you hear a beep, then let go.
  4. “Scanning For Networks” will appear on the screen.
  5. Once the scan is finished, the screen will read “Select Network”. Tap on this using the provided plastic stylus
  6. The names of the WiFi networks (SSIDs) will be listed in a drop-down menu, arranged by networks closest to, to farthest from you. Tap the name of the network you wish to connect to.
  7. A keyboard and password field will show up; type in the password for the wireless network.
  8. To confirm values, tap the return key in the lower right corner of the keyboard. The DDL will now establish a network connection.
  9. A notice telling you to finish the remaining setup with a web browser will appear if SmartLOG is successful in connecting to the network. Complete the settings by following the “Dashboard” section. The SmartLOG data logger will go back to step 4 above if it is unable to establish a network connection, requiring you to repeat steps 4-9 until the connection is successful.
  10. A ‘guest’ network connection is not able to be used.

Dashboard

The dashboard is a web-based interface that allows you to monitor all DDL conditions, generate PDF reports, and change settings using a web browser on a PC or smart phone.

To access the dashboard, follow these steps:

  1. Launch a web browser and enter the SmartLOG DDL’s IP address that appears on the DDL’s main screen.
  2. Type in the username and password you established when you first set up the DDL.
  3. The dashboard will be visible to you, consisting of four tabs: Help, Reports, Settings, and Overview.
  4. On the Overview tab, you can see current status of the wireless sensors, the backup battery voltage, the alarm status, the ambient room temperature and humidity, and the strength of the Wi-Fi signal.
  5. On the Reports tab, you can generate PDF reports of the temperature data for a chosen period of time.  It is recommended that it is generated on a more frequent basis rather than monthly.
  6. On the Settings tab, you can change various settings such as alarm thresholds, email/text contacts, wireless sensor names/serial numbers, time zone, date format, etc.
  7. On the Help tab, you can find useful information such as the user manual, FAQ, contact details, etc.

This article should help you get started with the ACCSL2021 SmartLog refrigerator/freezer thermometer data logger. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for choosing SmartLOG!

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