Datalogging Software by Laurel Electronics can turn a PC connected to up to 32 digital panel meters, counters and timers into a powerful datalogging system with distributed displays. On-screen simulated meters can show readings and alarm indications of actual meters or mathematical combinations of readings. Data can be saved in an ASCII file and imported into MS Excel for graphing and analysis.

Data can be displayed on the computer screen in the form of up to 64 simulated panel meters in 4 groups (or screens) of up to 16 meters each. These simulated meters can show the readings and alarm indications of selected actual meters, or show values other than those normally displayed by meters, such as peak value.

A virtual meter can also show calculated parameters or weighted averages that combine data from multiple meters. For example, a virtual meter can display watts, obtained by multiplying the current reading from one meter and the voltage reading from another meter. Available operands are multiply, divide, add, and subtract, with parentheses to allow complex expressions.

A virtual meter can also totalize analog readings over time, for example to display kilowatt-hours from watts, or totalized volume from flow rate. The on-screen position and appearance of individual meters is user selectable to achieve meaningful groupings.

Data can be logged from selected meters into an ASCII file, which is easily imported into MS Excel or other programs for graphing and analysis. User settable parameters include the logging time interval in seconds, the separator character (normally a comma), and header data (with or without time and date). Data files can be password protected.

Up to 32 UL-listed Laureate meters can be connected to the PC in addressable multidrop fashion using a single RS485 line. Each of these Laureates must be equipped with an RS485 board. Modbus RS485 is fully supported. A single Laureate meter equipped with an RS232 board can be connected to the COM port of a PC operating under MS Windows.

A free download version of Laureate Datalogging Software allows operation in a demo mode. Connection to actual instruments requires a 12-digit activation code at a cost of $150.

The price of Laureate Datalogging Software is $150. The software can be downloaded and will operated in a demo mode at no charge. For more information, visit www.laurels.com/datalogging-software.htm