FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes the alarm on the logger to activate?

The alarm will activate when the sensor's reading that the logger records is not within the specified monitoring range, as defined in the sensor specification step of the programming process.

2. My logger has LED's and I am using the logger in a light sensitive environment, how do I make sure the LED's always remain off?

It is possible to ensure the alarm, Red, LED is never activated during a logging period by ensuring the "Raise alarm on below upper spec readings" and the "Raise alarm on below lower spec readings" options are disabled. On some models of loggers, the active, Green, LED can be disabled by disabling the "Beeper On" option in the "Miscellaneous Settings" window of the programming sequence.

3. When should I use an external sensor instead of the internal temperature sensor?
An External sensor should be used:

 a. When the best response time is required. An external sensor will respond to changes in its environment  slightly quicker than an internal sensor.

 b. When the temperature of the environment may not be within the operating temperature limits of the logger.

 c. When the logger cannot be placed within the cargo to be monitored and the temperature within the cargo is  what is to be monitored. An external temperature sensor occupies far less space than a logger will.

 d. When the environment to be monitored is in a non-transparent and/or soundproof area and it is required to  continuously view the status of the logger, like if the logger is in alarm mode. A logger does not need to be  located in the same area as the external temperature sensor.

4. Where is the best place to place the logger and/or the external sensor?

A logger, or external sensor, best functions when placed in a location where abnormal air currents and environmental changes are not an issue. For example, if you want to monitor the temperature of a room, it is advisable not to place the logger too close to the door. Otherwise, every time the door is opened the logger and/or external sensor will be subjected to the temperature of the neighbouring room, while the, average, temperature of the room may not actually significantly change.

5. The software askes for a password to access the logger and I do not know what it is. What should I do now ?

The logger can be optionally password protected upon re-programming and downloading the recorded readings. The factory default password is "1234" and we recommend that it is changed from this as soon as possible if security is an issue. If you have changed the password from the factory default and you do not know what the new password is then the only way to gain access to your logger is to contact your local distributor, the logger will have to be sent to the servicing department to have the password reset (there is no other way).

6. Why does the alarm, Red, LED on the logger still blink even when the logger has finished?

This feature is provided so that you are aware that the logger was in alarm mode when the logger finished its logging. When monitoring temperature sensitive cargo, for example, this feature is extremely useful to give an immediate indication that the cargo may not be in an acceptable condition. You may stop the alarm, Red, LED flashing by swiping a magnet over the logger in a similar fashion to starting the logger.

7. Why does the LCD display incorrect sensor readings?

When the logger is programmed to display different sensor readings using an alternate scale, for example °C instead of °F, then the logger must be instructed on how to display these new values. This will extend the time involved in transferring program settings to the logger. If this process is not successfully completed, for example because the logger was removed from the interface while transferring the new program settings to the logger, then the LCD will appear to display incorrect sensor readings.

8. I have upgraded to a new computer, but my logger does not communicate any longer, why?

Please make sure that all your communication settings are correct, and also check that no other serial devices (for example mouse, modem etc) try to access the serial port at the same time as the ESCORT software. You may also require a Serial Port Adapter (see below). Also check that your logger is still working on a different PC.

9. There is grease on my humidity logger, why is that?

The only grease deposit on a humidity bung should be around the perimeter of the o-ring, which is located in the recess of the upper black bung. This will assist un-screwing the lid for battery replacement in the same way that it assists on the lid o-ring. Any other grease deposit is purely accidental. Please be careful when you handle the bung during battery replacement, as there MUST not be any grease deposit on the actual humidity sensor, as it will affect its accuracy and calibration. The grease we use is DowCorning Molykote 111, which is valve and o-ring lubricant. This is also used on the battery terminals to prevent corrosion.

10. My humidity logger does not show any sensible humidity or temperature readings, only <-22.2 & 100%, but I can program and list OK, what is wrong?

The most likely cause is that you have at some stage removed the bung with the sensors for battery replacement, and subsequently put it back the wrong way around. Make sure that the bung is orientated so that the humidity sensor is on the right hand side and the temperature sensor is on the left hand side.

11. Why can the software communicate with my old loggers but not my new one(s)?

The Escort product range is continually being improved and new variations are continually being created. It is very likely that the version of software that you are using is not aware of the new features included in your new logger(s) and therefore is unable to safely access the logger. To overcome this problem you can download the latest version of the software that will communicate with the new logger(s).

12. I have searched the user guides and this FAQ but still have not found the answer to my question. What should I do now ?

Please fill out our online help form and a customer service representative will be happy to assist.