Building a Data Logger with Direct Excel Input
Data Logger with Direct Keyboard Input: A Comprehensive Guide |
| As an enthusiast of electronics and DIY projects, I often find myself in need of measuring voltage and current simultaneously. This is especially true when working with buck converters, which require precise adjustments to function optimally. In my previous video, I explored the theory behind trimmers on a stepdown converter and discovered that one sets the voltage, another sets the maximum current, and the third sets the threshold for indicating a fully charged battery. However, I wanted to test this theory in reality. |
| To accomplish this, I built a small device consisting of a cheap meter, a battery, and a case. This device allowed me to read voltage and milliampere simultaneously, which was very useful but not sufficient for my current task. I needed a more advanced data logger that could record values over time and monitor the behavior of two LEDs. |
| After researching various options, I decided to build an Arduino-based data logger with direct keyboard input. This approach allowed me to take advantage of the versatility and programmability of Arduino while also providing a convenient way to log data directly into Excel. The goal was to create a device that could measure voltage, current, and LED activity simultaneously and record this data over time. |
| The first step in building the data logger was to design and assemble the circuitry. I chose an Arduino board as the brain of the operation, which would handle all calculations and data processing. The voltage and current measurements were taken care of by dedicated sensors, while the LED activity was monitored using a simple photoresistor-based sensor. |
| Next, I programmed the Arduino board to read the sensor inputs, perform any necessary calculations, and transmit the data to Excel via a serial connection. This involved writing custom code that would handle data formatting and transmission protocols. |
| To ensure accuracy and precision, I also implemented an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) storage system. This allowed me to store calibration values and other settings that could be retrieved and used even after the device was powered down. |
| Once the circuitry and programming were complete, I assembled the entire device into a compact case. The final product consisted of an Arduino board, sensors, photoresistors, EEPROM storage, and a serial connection for transmitting data to Excel. |
| To test the data logger, I connected it to a buck converter and two LiPo batteries. The output voltage of the converter was set to 8.4 volts, which is the maximum charging voltage for two LiPo cells. The current limitation was adjusted to 1000 mA, and the current for the charging indicator LED was set to 100 mA. |
| With everything in place, I started the experiment by disconnecting the plus pole of the battery and then reconnecting it after zeroing the current sensor. The data logger began recording values immediately, which were transmitted directly into Excel for analysis. |
| The results of the experiment were nothing short of impressive. The data logger recorded precise measurements over time, allowing me to create detailed charts and graphs that revealed valuable insights into the performance of the buck converter and LiPo batteries. |
| This project demonstrated the power and flexibility of Arduino-based DIY projects. By combining a few simple components with clever programming and design, it is possible to create sophisticated data loggers that can provide valuable insights into complex systems. |
| Data Logger |
A data logger is an electronic device that records and stores data over time, allowing users to track and analyze trends, patterns, and changes in various physical parameters such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and more. |
| Background |
Data loggers have been used for decades in various fields such as science, engineering, and industry. The first data loggers were simple devices that recorded analog signals on paper or film. With the advent of digital technology, modern data loggers can store large amounts of data in digital format, making it easier to analyze and interpret. |
| Building a Data Logger with Direct Excel Input |
| Introduction |
Data loggers are electronic devices that record data over time, and they have become an essential tool in various industries such as science, engineering, and environmental monitoring. With the advancement of technology, it is now possible to build a data logger with direct Excel input, making it easier to collect and analyze data. In this article, we will discuss how to build a data logger with direct Excel input. |
| Components Required |
To build a data logger with direct Excel input, you will need the following components: |
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- A microcontroller (e.g., Arduino or Raspberry Pi)
- A sensor (e.g., temperature, humidity, pressure, etc.)
- An Excel-compatible device (e.g., a laptop or tablet with Microsoft Excel installed)
- A data transmission method (e.g., USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.)
|
| Hardware Setup |
The hardware setup involves connecting the sensor to the microcontroller and the microcontroller to the Excel-compatible device. The specific connections may vary depending on the components used, but a typical setup would involve: |
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- Connecting the sensor to the microcontroller using analog or digital input pins
- Connecting the microcontroller to the Excel-compatible device using a USB cable or wireless connection
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| Software Setup |
The software setup involves programming the microcontroller to read data from the sensor and transmit it to the Excel-compatible device. This can be done using a programming language such as C++, Python, or MATLAB. The specific code may vary depending on the components used, but a typical program would involve: |
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- Reading data from the sensor using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) or digital input
- Processing and formatting the data for transmission to Excel
- Transmitting the data to Excel using a serial communication protocol such as RS-232 or USB
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| Excel Setup |
To receive and display the transmitted data in Excel, you will need to: |
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- Open a new spreadsheet or workbook in Microsoft Excel
- Set up a cell range to receive the transmitted data using a formula such as =SERIAL("COM3",9600,8,N,1)
- Format the received data for display and analysis using Excel formulas and functions
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| Advantages |
The advantages of building a data logger with direct Excel input include: |
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- Easy setup and configuration using familiar software tools
- Real-time data display and analysis in Excel
- Flexibility to use a variety of sensors and devices
- Cost-effective compared to commercial data loggers
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| Conclusion |
Building a data logger with direct Excel input is a fun and rewarding project that can be completed using readily available components. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a customized data logging system that meets your specific needs. |
| Q1: What is a data logger? |
A device or software that records and stores data over time, allowing for tracking and analysis of the data. |
| Q2: Why use direct Excel input for a data logger? |
To simplify data collection and analysis by directly storing data in an Excel spreadsheet, eliminating the need for manual data entry or additional software. |
| Q3: What are the benefits of using a data logger with direct Excel input? |
The benefits include increased efficiency, reduced errors, and faster analysis and reporting, as well as the ability to easily share and collaborate on data. |
| Q4: What type of data can be logged with direct Excel input? |
Any type of data that can be measured or collected, such as temperature, pressure, voltage, current, and more, as well as text-based data like timestamps and notes. |
| Q5: How does direct Excel input work for a data logger? |
The data logger connects to an Excel spreadsheet through a software interface or API, allowing it to write data directly to the spreadsheet in real-time. |
| Q6: What are some common applications of data loggers with direct Excel input? |
Applications include laboratory research, industrial monitoring, quality control, environmental monitoring, and more. |
| Q7: Can I use a data logger with direct Excel input for real-time monitoring? |
Yes, many data loggers can provide real-time data updates to an Excel spreadsheet, allowing for immediate monitoring and response. |
| Q8: How do I ensure data security and integrity with direct Excel input? |
Data security and integrity can be ensured through measures such as password protection, encryption, and regular backups of the Excel spreadsheet. |
| Q9: Can I customize the layout and formatting of my data in the Excel spreadsheet? |
Yes, most data loggers with direct Excel input allow for customization of the layout and formatting of the data, as well as the ability to add formulas and charts. |
| Q10: What are some popular software options for building a data logger with direct Excel input? |
Popular options include LabVIEW, Visual Basic, Python, and MATLAB, as well as specialized data logging software like DAQFactory and WinDaq. |
| Rank |
Pioneers/Companies |
Description |
| 1 |
Microchip Technology |
Introduced the first microcontroller with built-in USB and Excel-compatible data logging capabilities. |
| 2 |
LabJack Corporation |
Developed a range of data loggers with direct Excel input, including the popular LabJack U3 and U6 models. |
| 3 |
National Instruments |
Released a series of data loggers with Excel-compatible software, including the NI CompactDAQ and cDAQ-9178. |
| 4 |
Keysight Technologies |
Offered a range of data loggers with direct Excel input, including the Keysight U1271A and U1282A models. |
| 5 |
Yokogawa Electric Corporation |
Developed the Yokogawa DL350, a portable data logger with Excel-compatible software. |
| 6 |
Fluke Corporation |
Released the Fluke 2638A, a data logger with direct Excel input and advanced analysis capabilities. |
| 7 |
Data Translation, Inc. |
Offered the DataQ DI-1110, a USB data logger with Excel-compatible software and advanced analysis capabilities. |
| 8 |
Omega Engineering |
Developed the Omega OMB-DB1, a data logger with direct Excel input and advanced analysis capabilities. |
| 9 |
Hottinger Baldwin Messtechnik (HBM) |
Released the HBM Somat eDAQ, a data logger with direct Excel input and advanced analysis capabilities. |
| 10 |
Dewesoft d.o.o. |
Offered the Dewesoft SIRIUS, a data logger with direct Excel input and advanced analysis capabilities. |
| Hardware Components |
Description |
| Microcontroller |
Arduino Uno or compatible board (e.g., Arduino Nano, Arduino Mega) |
| Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) |
MCP3421 or equivalent (12-bit, 4-channel ADC) |
| Thermocouple Amplifier |
AD8495 or equivalent (thermocouple amplifier with cold junction compensation) |
| SD Card Module |
Supports standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, compatible with Arduino libraries |
| USB-to-TTL Serial Converter |
FT232R or equivalent (for serial communication between microcontroller and computer) |
| Software Components |
Description |
| Arduino IDE |
Version 1.8.x or later (for programming the microcontroller) |
| Excel Driver Library |
LibXL or equivalent (for interacting with Excel files) |
| SD Card Library |
SdFat or equivalent (for reading/writing to SD cards) |
| Circuit Diagram and Connections |
Description |
| Microcontroller to ADC |
VCC (5V), GND, SCL (SCK), and SDA (SDI) connections for I2C communication |
| ADC to Thermocouple Amplifier |
Analog output from ADC connects to the thermocouple amplifier input |
| Thermocouple Amplifier to Microcontroller |
Analog output from thermocouple amplifier connects to microcontroller analog input pin (e.g., A0) |
| Microcontroller to SD Card Module |
VCC (5V), GND, SCK, MOSI, MISO, and CS connections for SPI communication |
| USB-to-TTL Serial Converter to Microcontroller |
TX, RX, VCC (5V), and GND connections for serial communication |
| Firmware Overview |
Description |
| Initialization |
Initialize ADC, SD card module, and serial communication; configure thermocouple amplifier |
| Data Acquisition |
Read analog data from thermocouple amplifier using ADC; convert to temperature values |
| Data Logging |
Write temperature data to SD card in CSV format using SdFat library |
| Excel Input |
Read Excel file from SD card using LibXL library; parse and extract relevant data |
| Example Use Case |
Description |
| Data Logging |
Log temperature data to SD card at regular intervals (e.g., every minute) |
| Excel Input |
Read Excel file containing calibration data or other relevant information |
| Data Analysis |
Analyze logged temperature data using Excel or other software tools |
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