Dickson DBL - User Manual

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Summary

Navigating the Device

Device Indicators and Controls

Identifies key indicators like battery, alarm, recording status, and controls like the Start/Stop button.

Getting Started with the DBL

Install DicksonWare 2.0

Steps to install the DicksonWare 2.0 software from the USB stick.

Configure Device Settings

Guidance on launching DicksonWare 2.0 and connecting the DBL to configure settings.

Sample Rate Configuration

Setting the interval for data readings and logging behavior when full.

Channel Configuration

Adjusting temperature units and enabling/disabling humidity recording.

Alarm Configuration

Setting minimum and maximum thresholds for temperature and humidity alarms.

The DBL (Data Logger) is a compact, portable device designed for environmental monitoring, specifically for logging temperature and, if active, relative humidity. It is a key component in a system that includes DicksonWare 2.0 software (both standard and 21CFR Part 11 compliant "Secure" versions are available, with the secure version sold separately) for configuration, data download, and analysis.

Function Description

The primary function of the DBL is to continuously log environmental data, specifically temperature and relative humidity. It captures readings at user-defined intervals and stores them internally. The device features a clear display that shows the recent reading, a recording indicator, temperature units (which rotate between channels), the active channel number (CH1 for temperature, CH2 for relative humidity), and a battery indicator. An alarm icon (bell, not pictured) is also present to signal alarm conditions. Data logging can be initiated and paused directly on the device using a dedicated Start/Stop button. Once data is collected, it can be downloaded to a computer for viewing and analysis using the DicksonWare 2.0 software.

Important Technical Specifications

Power Source: The DBL operates on a single AA battery. A standard AA battery provides an estimated two years of battery life under specific assumptions (5-minute sample rate, 3-second display refresh rate, 3 audible/visual alarms per month, and operation at ambient temperature). Battery life can be extended up to 6 years by using a Lithium AA battery under the same assumptions.
Connectivity: The device connects to a computer via a USB cable for configuration and data download.
Firmware: The DBL comes preloaded with up-to-date firmware. Firmware updates, if available, can be accessed via the manufacturer's website.
Data Storage: The device stores logged data internally until downloaded. Users can configure whether the device stops logging when its memory is full or overwrites older data (WRAP mode).
Software Compatibility: Requires DicksonWare 2.0 software (version 20.3.2.0 or greater) for full functionality, including configuration and data download. DicksonWare 2.0 Secure, which is 21CFR Part 11 compliant, is available separately.

Usage Features

Getting Started:
1. Open the rear battery compartment and insert one AA battery. The device will power on and briefly display its firmware version.
2. Four static dashes and a wrench icon will appear, indicating readiness for configuration.
3. Connect the DBL to a computer via a USB cable.
4. Install DicksonWare 2.0 software (if not already installed) from the provided USB stick.
5. Launch DicksonWare 2.0, which will recognize the connected device.
Device Configuration (via DicksonWare 2.0):
- Logger Naming: Assign a name to the logger for easy identification.
- Sample Rate: Select the interval at which the device takes readings. Faster sample rates will impact battery life.
- Logging Mode: Choose between stopping logging when full or overwriting old data (WRAP).
- Channels: Adjust temperature units (Fahrenheit or Celsius) and enable/disable relative humidity channel recording.
- Alarms:
  - Set minimum (lower threshold) and maximum (upper threshold) alarm values for temperature and humidity.
  - The device will sound an alarm when readings cross these thresholds.
  - The alarm icon on the display will illuminate.
  - The unit will blink a specific color to indicate the alarm type: Red for temperature, Green for humidity, Blue for calibration past due.
  - Alarms sound for 1 minute; if the condition persists, the device will beep twice every 5 minutes.
  - Audible/visual alarms clear automatically once readings return within the set limits.
Starting and Stopping Logging:
- After configuring and saving settings in DicksonWare 2.0, disconnect the device.
- Four flashing dashes will appear, indicating readiness.
- Hold the Start/Stop button for 5 seconds to begin logging. "Strt" will appear on the screen.
- Hold the Start/Stop button for 5 seconds again to stop or pause logging. Logging will resume when the button is pressed again.
Downloading Data:
1. Launch DicksonWare 2.0.
2. Connect the DBL to the computer via USB.
3. Click the "Download" button on the DicksonWare home screen.
4. Data will automatically download. The time required depends on the amount of data stored.
5. Once downloaded, data can be viewed and analyzed within the software interface.

Maintenance Features

Battery Replacement: The device uses a standard AA battery, which can be easily replaced by opening the rear battery compartment.
Firmware Updates: While the device comes with up-to-date firmware, the manufacturer provides information on their website for rare occasions when new updates are available. This ensures the device remains current with any improvements or bug fixes.
Software Updates: Keeping DicksonWare 2.0 updated (version 20.3.2.0 or greater is required) ensures compatibility and access to the latest features for device configuration and data analysis.