Temperature indicators and instruments are specially designed for temperature monitoring and analysis. They either come equipped with a sensor or need a sensor input.
In most industrial applications, collecting temperatures as a permanent record for manufacturing needs is important. These devices provide historical data which can be used to find out problems within a system. These data collection methods vary from using simple, inexpensive and portable indicators to more sophisticated DCS (Distribution Control Systems) that can both log and control data.
The most cost-effective and portable indicators do not offer any kind of memory or recording features. Readings from these portable temperature indicators and instruments are required to be recorded by hand. On the other hand, some portable indicators do come with memory. This allows users to store the data in the memory and then download it onto a computer.
Other devices used for temperature measurement
Chart recorders are other devices used for recording temperature data. These recorders provide digital readouts. They also offer a digital indication of a process temperature at scanned and selected points. The DCS also provides a data-logging feature as a part of its operating capability. As these systems are mostly computer based, data-logging functions can be programmed to any required configuration.
When looking for temperature instruments and indicators, input options, sensed temperature range and number of channels or inputs are some important points to consider. Input options include permanent probe or sensor, RTD inputs, thermocouple inputs, solid-state inputs and thermistor inputs.
