low cost, low voltage data logger

[magoo2]

I'm looking for an inexpensive voltage recorder to monitor 240 V of a 120/240 V service (U.S.) for a couple of days. Would prefer 2 channels. Any recommendations?

I thought of a PMI recorder but that's about $3000. Would like something less than $1000. Any suggestions are welcome.

 

[VEBill]

If you search on power 'quality' you'll get tons of hits.

http://www.google.ca/search?q=power+quality+monitor

 

[ScottyUK]

For a couple of days just hire one. That way you get a quality instrument with good capabilities, but without the capital outlay.


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Sometimes I only open my mouth to swap feet...

 

[magoo2]

I'm afraid power quality is too broad a search. I just want rms voltages. Don't need transients and harmonics. And don't need to look at three-phase monitors.

I found an AEMC recorder that may work, but I'll need 2 since it only handles a single channel. Don't know how plug and play it is.

We may rent something or hire someone as Scotty suggests.

 

[VEBill]

I believe that there are many cost-effective (well under $1000) power quality monitors / recorders that include the capability to measure and record RMS voltages. Obviously they'll include the capability to measure and record other aspects of power quality, but those unwanted features can be easily ignored - especially if it makes finding one much easier.

I suspect that such devices are more common and cheaper then finding one that JUST monitors and records RMS voltage.

Maybe a Fluke meter would give you at least the min and max RMS voltage over any period of time (until reset).

 

[jraef]

If you have to have multiple channels, this one is about $700 including the software. I have used it, it's very simple, intuitive and reliable.
AEMC Data Logger

This one is a single channel and is a lot less expensive.
AEMC Simple Logger

 

[magoo2]

Thanks, jraef. The 3-channel model ought to do the trick even though I'll just be using 2 of the channels.