Field-mounted Data Logger "Web Logger 2 DL30-G" | Collect and Record Factory Data, Monitor via Web Browser

In factories with long used machinery or those that have gradually expanded their equipment, data such as temperature, electric power, sensor signals, and equipment operating status are often scattered across multiple locations.

Furthermore, depending on the site, there are cases where the person in charge must patrol the equipment to check data and record it manually.

Consolidating such on site data into a single system and creating an environment that is easy to monitor is one of the first steps toward advancing factory DX and realizing a smart factory.

Table of Contents

• Scattered factory data increases the burden of on site inspections
• What is DL30-G? A field mounted data logger that collects and records factory data
• Collectively gather data from existing and newly added equipment
• Visualize factory data with web monitoring and logging
• Link recorded data to upper level systems
• Points to check before implementation
• FAQ
• Keywords for understanding this article

■ Scattered factory data increases the burden of on site inspections

When there are multiple machines and equipment in a factory, data such as temperature, power consumption, and equipment operating status are sometimes managed in different locations. In such cases, the person in charge must physically visit each piece of equipment on site and manually record the data, which takes significant time for both checking and recording.

By consolidating these data into a single system, it becomes easier to check the status of each piece of equipment, leading to a reduction in the work required to patrol the site and verify data. Furthermore, continuously recording the equipment's status makes it easier to grasp any abnormalities or changes in operational conditions.

■ What is DL30-G? A field mounted data logger that collects and records factory data

The DL30-G is a highly functional type of the field mounted data logger "Web Logger 2" from MG Co., Ltd. (formerly M-System Co., Ltd.). It collects and records data such as temperature, electric power, and equipment operating status from factory equipment, making it easier to collectively view scattered information.

Collected data can be monitored from a web browser on a PC or tablet via a network. There is no need to install dedicated application software on the viewing device; you can check the on site status directly from the browser.

It is also possible to continuously record the collected data and automatically generate daily, monthly, and annual reports. Furthermore, it features a function to send email notifications when equipment abnormalities or events such as start/stop operations occur. Therefore, it is suitable for factories looking to streamline the recording and monitoring of equipment data, as well as those considering equipment management utilizing on site data.

■ Collectively gather data from existing and newly added equipment

The DL30-G can collect data from R30 series I/O cards, as well as from remote I/O and PLCs. It supports Modbus/TCP and SLMP communications, and up to 64 target devices can be connected. Gathered data is recorded and can be viewed as trends or reports via a web browser. It is also well suited for data visualization utilizing existing equipment.

However, because connectable devices and data acquisition methods vary depending on the specifications of existing equipment, it is important to verify the interface and communication protocol prior to implementation.

■ Visualize factory data with web monitoring and logging

The DL30-G can continuously record measured values and event data acquired on-site. It supports up to 128 points for logging and reporting data, with a standard sampling period of 1 second. Recorded data can be checked from trend screens, event screens, report screens, and more.

Since it can be viewed from a web browser on a PC or tablet, dedicated application software for viewing data is unnecessary. By consolidating data that was previously checked on a per equipment basis, you can establish an environment where equipment status and data changes are easy to confirm.

■ Link recorded data to upper level systems

The DL30-G is equipped with FTP server/client and Modbus/TCP master/slave functions. Collected and recorded data, as well as report data, can be saved as CSV files, which can then be transferred to a server or retrieved externally using FTP.

Moreover, by utilizing the Modbus/TCP slave function, the data collected by the DL30-G can be passed on to upper level systems such as SCADA, making it useful for centralized monitoring systems overseeing multiple sites. Beyond merely collecting and recording data on site, it also paves the way for future equipment monitoring systems, factory DX, and data utilization toward realizing a smart factory.

■ Points to check before implementation

When considering the implementation of the DL30-G, the first crucial step is to clarify "what kind of data you want to collect."

At the same time, check the following items:

• Types of data to be collected
• Machinery and equipment from which data will be acquired
• Types of I/O signals
• Communication methods for PLC and Remote I/O
• Current network configuration
• How the collected data will be viewed and utilized
• Whether integration with upper level systems like SCADA is required

The required equipment configuration and connection methods will vary depending on the specifications of your existing equipment and your specific goals.

Nippon Denka Kogyosho (Thailand) Ltd. handles products from MG Co., Ltd., including signal conditioners, data loggers, and remote I/O devices.

Please feel free to contact us if you are considering the implementation of the DL30-G or connecting it to your existing equipment.

※For more details, please download the PDF attached to this article or contact us via the form at the bottom of the page.

※In January 2024, M-System Co., Ltd. changed its company name to "MG Co., Ltd."

■ FAQ

Q1 : Can it collect data from the machines currently in use and utilize it for factory data visualization?
A1 : The DL30-G can be combined with existing machinery and production equipment to acquire data via I/O signals, remote I/O, PLCs, and more.

However, because the connection method varies by equipment, you must check the interfaces and supported communication protocols before implementation.

Q2 : How can I check the collected data?
A2 : Data collected by the DL30-G can be viewed using a web browser on a PC or tablet.

Trend screens, event screens, and report screens are provided, allowing you to check the gathered data and equipment status.

Q3 : Can data collected by the DL30-G be used in upper level systems?
A3 : Yes. The DL30-G supports Modbus/TCP and FTP, allowing collected data to be linked to upper level systems such as SCADA.

Additionally, logging data and report data can be saved as CSV files to be utilized in other systems.

※For more details, please download the PDF attached to this article or contact us via the form at the bottom of the page.

■ Keywords for understanding this article

• Data Logger : A device that continuously collects and records data acquired from sensors, equipment, etc.
• Logging : Recording data such as temperature, electric power, and equipment operating status at regular intervals.
• PLC : A control device used to control machinery and equipment in factories.
• Remote I/O : A device used to capture input/output signals from sensors or equipment located at a distance via a network.
• SCADA : A system for collecting, monitoring, and managing factory and equipment data.
• Modbus/TCP : One of the protocols used to communicate data between devices using Ethernet.

※For more details, please download the PDF attached to this article or contact us via the form at the bottom of the page.