Datalogging FAQ

What is datalogging on a gas detector?

Datalogging is the automatic recording of gas concentration readings over time. The detector stores each measurement with a timestamp.

Why is datalogging needed?

It is needed to save gas detector results for experiments or general analysis, allowing you to review exposure history, verify compliance, and analyze trends after monitoring is complete.

What is the difference between internal memory and PC datalogging?

There are two types of datalogging.

1. Internal memory logging: This stores readings directly on the detector for later download. 
2. to PC datalogging: This streams live readings to a PC computer via USB, where software records and displays data in real time. 

Model Datalogging Comparison Table

Model	Datalogging?	Datalogging Type?	PC Interface / Software
FD-600M (Dataloggers)	✅	📳 Internal Memory	USB cable download; Direct CSV export. Analyzer shows up as a drive.
FD-600 (Analyzers with Built-in Pump)	✅	💻 to PC	USB cable download; Direct CSV export. FD Manager Software Required.
FD-4S / FD-4X (4 Gas Monitors)	✅	💻 to PC	USB cable download; Direct CSV export. FD Manager Software Required.
FD-60 (Wall Mount Industrial Monitors)	✅	💻 to PC	RS485 MODBUS (Digital) & 4-20mA (analog) outputs.
FD-UV-O3 (Ozone Lab Analyzer)	✅	💻 to PC	RS485 MODBUS (Digital) output.
FD-VAPE-8100 (Vape Portable Analyzer)	✅	📳 Internal Memory	USB cable download; Direct PDF export.
FD-OXY2000	✅	💻 to PC	RS485 MODBUS (Digital) & 4-20mA (analog) outputs.
FD-4A	❌	❌	❌
FD-90A (all versions)	❌	❌	❌

 

How does PC (real-time) datalogging work?

The detector connects to a computer via a USB cable. Dedicated software receives readings and saves the data to a file. The detector must remain connected for the entire logging period.

How does internal memory datalogging work?

The detector saves readings to onboard memory at a user-set interval. No computer is needed during monitoring. Afterward, you connect the detector to a PC and download the stored data.

What is a logging interval?

The logging interval is how often a reading is saved — for example, every 1 second, 30 seconds, or 5 minutes. Shorter intervals capture more detail but fill memory faster. 

How long can a gas detector log data?

Logging duration depends on memory capacity, logging interval, and battery life. 

What file formats do datalogging gas detectors export?

Most detectors export CSV or Excel-compatible files containing timestamps and gas concentrations. Some software also generates PDF reports or graphs. CSV is the most versatile format for analysis, archiving, and sharing with regulators or clients.

What happens when internal memory is full?

Depending on the model, the detector either stops logging or overwrites the oldest data (circular logging). Check your manual, and download and clear memory before long monitoring sessions to avoid losing data.

Are logged readings timestamped?

Yes. Each data point is stamped with date and time from the detector's internal clock. Always verify the clock is set correctly before logging — an incorrect clock makes exposure records difficult to defend in compliance reviews.

Can I log multiple gases at once?

Yes. Multi-gas monitors such as the FD-4S, FD-4X-BLUE and FD-600-4GAS or FD-600M-4GAS log all sensor channels simultaneously — for example, O2, CO, H2S, and LEL. Each gas appears as a separate column in the exported file with a shared timestamp.