Data Logger Module – Logging Shield Data Recorder for Arduino

Key Features:

• Easy Integration: Designed as a shield that fits directly on top of compatible Arduino boards, simplifying the connection process.
• Micro SD Card Support: Allows for large data storage, suitable for long-term logging projects.
• Real-Time Clock (RTC) Support: Some variants may include a real-time clock (like the DS1307 or DS3231) for timestamping recorded data.
• Multiple Input Options: Can interface with various sensors and modules, enabling versatile data collection.
• Simple Library Usage: Compatible with the Arduino SD library, allowing easy file handling for reading and writing data.

Physical Characteristics:

• Pin Configuration: The module has the following pins:
  • GND: Ground connection.
  • VCC: Power supply (5V).
  • CS: Chip Select for SD card.
  • MOSI: Master Out Slave In for SPI communication.
  • MISO: Master In Slave Out for SPI communication.
  • SCK: Serial Clock for SPI communication.
  • DIO: Digital Input/Output pins for additional sensors.
  • RTC: Connection for Real-Time Clock (if included).

Wiring Connections:

1. Power Connections:

1. • Connect the GND pin to the GND on the Arduino.
   • Connect the VCC pin to the 5V pin on the Arduino.

2. Data Connections:

1. • Connect the CS pin to a digital pin on the Arduino (e.g., D10).
   • Connect the MOSI pin to the SPI MOSI pin (D11).
   • Connect the MISO pin to the SPI MISO pin (D12).
   • Connect the SCK pin to the SPI clock pin (D13).

Here’s a simple wiring diagram:

lua Data Logger Shield        Arduino——————————–GND      ————->  GNDVCC      ————->  5VCS       ————->  D10MOSI     ————->  D11MISO     ————->  D12SCK      ————->  D13

How to Use:

1. Install Required Libraries:

1. • In the Arduino IDE, you will need to install the SD library to manage file operations on the micro SD card. This library is usually included with the Arduino IDE.

2. Format the Micro SD Card:

1. • Ensure that the micro SD card is formatted to FAT16 or FAT32 for compatibility.

3. Upload Example Code:

1. • Below is a simple example to demonstrate how to log data to the SD card.

#include <SPI.h>#include <SD.h> const int chipSelect = 10; // CS pin for SD card void setup() {    Serial.begin(9600);    while (!Serial) {        ; // Wait for serial port to connect    }     Serial.print(“Initializing SD card…”);     if (!SD.begin(chipSelect)) {        Serial.println(“initialization failed!”);        return;    }    Serial.println(“initialization done.”);} void loop() {    // Open a new file for writing    File dataFile = SD.open(“datalog.txt”, FILE_WRITE);     // If the file is available, write to it    if (dataFile) {        dataFile.println(“Logging some data…”);        dataFile.close(); // Close the file        Serial.println(“Data logged.”);    } else {        Serial.println(“error opening datalog.txt”);    }    delay(1000); // Wait for a second before logging again}

4. Testing:

1. • After uploading the code, open the Serial Monitor to see the output. Check the micro SD card for the created file datalog.txt to verify that data is being logged correctly.

5. Adjusting Data Logging:

1. • You can modify the code to log data from sensors by replacing the dataFile.println(“Logging some data…”); line with actual sensor readings.

6. Reading Logged Data:

1. • You can read the logged data by inserting the micro SD card into an SD card reader connected to a computer, or by implementing additional code to read and display the contents on the Arduino Serial Monitor.

Applications:

• Environmental Monitoring: Ideal for collecting data from temperature, humidity, and other environmental sensors.
• Research Projects: Useful in experiments requiring continuous data logging over time.
• Robotics: Can log data from various sensors for analysis and debugging.
• Home Automation: Monitor and log various parameters in smart home applications.
• Event Logging: Record events or triggers from sensors or switches for later analysis.

Additional Features:

• Real-Time Clock: If integrated, the RTC can provide precise timestamps for each logged data entry.
• Low Power Consumption: Designed for efficient power use, suitable for battery-operated projects.
• Multiple File Handling: Supports logging to multiple files on the micro SD card, allowing organized data storage.

Considerations:

• Power Supply: Ensure the Arduino board has sufficient power for both itself and the data logger shield, especially when using external sensors.
• Micro SD Card Compatibility: Use a high-quality micro SD card to avoid read/write errors.
• File System: Make sure the SD card is formatted correctly to prevent initialization issues.

The Data Logger Module is an essential tool for anyone looking to capture and analyze data in their Arduino projects. With its easy integration, extensive storage options, and versatility, this shield is perfect for a wide range of applications, from hobbyist projects to professional research. Whether you’re logging environmental data, monitoring sensor output, or creating a data collection system, this module can provide the necessary functionality to help you achieve your project goals.