This section lists the more common questions our customers have. If you have a question you would like answered that does not appear below then please email us. We are happy to help!
Q. Can data be sent between the DRT4 and a PC for storage, further analysis etc?
A. Yes, this is easily done via the Serial or USB ports of the PC, using our dedicated Windows software package (moorSOFT). Data transfer can be 'live' - i.e. at the time of measurement or after the measurement by downloading from the DRT4 memory. Where conditions and space allow we recommend live monitoring as the safest form of data capture.
Q. How long is the stored data safe in the DRT4 without connecting it to the electrical supply?
A. We would always recommend downloading data as soon as practically possible to safeguard your measurement. However your data is safe for at least eighteen months (new DRT4) - as the data is saved by an internal battery. As the DRT4 gets older, or the battery weaker this 'safe' time is reduced.
Q. How often should the probes be calibrated?
A. We have some customers who calibrate daily and others less regularly. The important thing to bear in mind is that the room temperature should be close to the same each time you calibrate. There is a risk of 'over calibration' - excessive calibration throughout the day - which can be counterproductive if there are large temperature swings. This can result in changes in the Brownian motion of the polystyrene microspheres. We would normally recommend calibrating at least weekly during the course of a scientific investigation. Calibration is also a good indicator of probe condition. A damaged probe will not calibrate!
Q. Can I measure other signals at the same time as flux and temperature?
A. Yes, the DRT4 has 4 analogue input channels. Signals of 0-10 volts can be monitored via the AN02 (AN01 for DRT4 serial Nos 3000 - 3124) interface and transferred live from the DRT4 (research software) to PC with moorSOFT/DRT4 PC software.
Q. Should the skin be cleaned before measurements?
A. Yes - we recommend using an alcohol wipe. Dry or flaky skin can be removed with sticky tape.