Why use an automated Internet connected temperature and humidity logging system?

There are many different types of monitoring systems available in the market today. You can roughly divide these into mechanical, electrical, and IoT-enabled devices. In this post, we compare these three types focusing on temperature and humidity monitoring.

Mechanical System - Wet and Dry Bulb Hygrometer

These devices date back to the 1800s and require manual calculation using printed lookup tables to determine humidity readings. The process is time-consuming, prone to human error, and requires regular maintenance of the wet bulb's cotton wick.

Electrical System

Wall-mounted units from the 1980s offer quick visual readings with clock displays. They are common in server rooms, though pharmaceutical companies have been moving away from them. While easier to read than hygrometers, they still require manual logging and don't provide remote access.

IoT System - Blake

Blake is an internet-connected device built on the Bolt IoT platform, enabling remote monitoring capabilities from anywhere in the world.

Comparison

Ease of Use

Blake enables viewing readings from anywhere globally via internet connectivity, surpassing both the mechanical hygrometer and the electrical meter alternatives. No need to be physically present to check conditions.

Maintenance

• Hygrometer: Requires water replacement every 1-5 days; risks algae growth in the water reservoir
• Electrical: Battery replacement annually
• Blake: Powered via power bank or micro-USB charging; includes offline alerts when power is disconnected

Calibration

Only Blake permits calibration adjustments for sustained accuracy. Mechanical and electrical units typically require replacement once their accuracy drifts beyond acceptable ranges, as there is no way to recalibrate them.

Data Logging

Blake automatically logs data every 5 minutes continuously, 24/7. This eliminates the need for manual 3x daily logging requirements and removes the possibility of human error in recording data.

Alerts

Blake provides threshold-based SMS and email alerts to multiple recipients, functioning 24/7 regardless of physical proximity. If temperature or humidity exceeds set limits, alerts are sent immediately - something neither mechanical nor electrical systems can do.

Conclusion

With all these advantages, the question is: why would any modern facility continue to rely on nineteenth-century technology for monitoring temperature and humidity when automated, internet-connected solutions like Blake are available?