Installing Temperature sensors

This guide gives instructions on how to install Temperature sensors and Temperature Sensors with Data Backfill so that they can report readings to the cloud. 

Quick access

1. What you need
2. Planning the installation
3. Activation
4. Mounting options
5. Configuration
6. Settling Period
7. Check the signal strength

What you need

The number of sensors in a box can vary, ranging from as few as 1 to as many as 100, depending on the number of sensors ordered. As a standard practice, boxes containing either 25 or 100 sensors will feature a QR code, simplifying the process of claiming multiple sensors at once. In cases where these quantities are not met, the package will lack a QR code and each sensor will need to be claimed individually.

Besides the Temperature sensor itself, it is advisable to have the following on hand:

• a laptop or a smartphone running the DT Studio web application studio.d21s.com. If your company does not have a DT Studio organization, get started at d21s.com/start
• we also recommend having one or more online Cloud Connectors (gateways) close by to enable forwarding sensor data to the DT Cloud and to check the connectivity of the sensor once it is installed. Please refer to our guide for detailed instructions on how to properly install our Cloud Connectors.
• optional: Range Extender accessories. 

Planning the installation

Depending on specific data requirements, DT's Temperature sensor can measure either surface or ambient temperature. Our tiny sensor measures the temperature where it's positioned. Its small size and weight make it sensitive to the surface it rests upon, affecting its temperature readings. This measurement choice is tailored to specific use cases, such as:

1. 1. Environmental Temperature Monitoring
   2. Cold Storage Monitoring
   3. Pipe Temperature Monitoring
   4. HVAC Monitoring

First, identify your measurement objectives, and then carefully plan your approach. Once you've defined what you want to measure, ensure you plan for sufficient Cloud Connector coverage. It is also recommended to review the Safety & Use Manual prior to installing the sensors.

Activation

Claim the sensors in Studio by scanning the QR code found on the sensor packaging. If only a few sensors are needed, they can also be claimed individually in Studio. The sensor is now available in Studio and you can give it a name, a description, a label, etc.

As part of the activation process and before the placement of the sensors, ensure that you also configure both the Heartbeat Interval and the Sampling Rate for all the Temperature sensors in Studio.

Mounting options

The placement of Temperature Sensors may differ based on particular use cases and data requirements. Ensure the sensor is positioned at the exact location where temperature measurement is needed, taking into account whether you're targeting ambient or surface temperature.

Measuring ambient temperature

One of the frequent uses for our Temperature Sensors is to measure ambient temperature. To ensure precise air temperature measurements, it's essential to understand the surroundings where the sensor will be installed and what kind of readings we want to obtain:

Environmental Temperature Monitoring

For accurate Environmental Temperature Monitoring in standard office settings, choose interior walls for sensor installation to minimize the impact of external temperature fluctuations on sensor readings.

Keep sensors away from:

• Heat-emitting devices: Installing the sensor near these devices can lead to false readings due to their radiant heat output.
• Direct sunlight: Sunlight exposure can cause temperature spikes and fluctuations, making it an unreliable location for ambient temperature measurement.
• Exterior walls: Placing sensors on exterior walls can expose them to outdoor temperature fluctuations, affecting the accuracy of humidity and temperature measurements.
• Areas with concealed pipework: Installing the sensor in these locations can lead to inaccurate temperature readings as it may measure the temperature of the concealed pipes rather than the true ambient conditions.
• Ventilation units: Sensors placed nearby may record temperature variations influenced by the hot or cold air expelled by these units rather than the actual ambient temperature.
• Areas with excessive air movement: In such locations, air drafts can disrupt temperature measurements, leading to inaccurate data affected by air movement
• Windows: Unsealed windows can introduce temperature variations, influenced by outdoor weather conditions, affecting sensor readings.

We advise positioning sensors at chest height on central columns or interior walls, maintaining normal air circulation, and avoiding proximity to hot or cold equipment.

Secure sensors using their adhesive backing on clean, dry surfaces by removing the protective film and pressing firmly.

Cold Storage Monitoring

For accurate ambient temperature measurements in refrigerators, freezers, and cooling cabinets, use the Ambient Range Extender. This accessory insulates the sensor from the materials to which it is affixed, eliminating metal interference and enhancing wireless range.

Due to extreme cold storage conditions, the sensor's adhesive may not securely attach to the Ambient Range Extender, increasing the risk of it falling and getting damaged. We highly recommend using super glue for a more secure installation. Find detailed instructions for sensor placement in these specific use cases in the article "How to Measure Temperature in Freezers, Fridges, and Cold Storage."

HVAC Monitoring

When it comes to HVAC Temperature Monitoring, it's crucial to overcome connectivity challenges, especially when sensors are placed inside metal shafts. To address this issue effectively, consider the use of the Ambient Range Extender, as it will ensure that your HVAC system's temperature data remains reliable.

Measuring surface temperature

Temperature sensors, with their small size and rapid heat absorption, are suitable for measuring the surface temperature of most equipment. Applying them to flat surfaces is easy due to their adhesive backing. However, on metal surfaces, connectivity issues may arise, and uneven surfaces can lead to adhesive problems or thermal connection issues. Careful placement is crucial in such situations to ensure accurate readings.

Pipe Temperature Monitoring

For additional guidance on effectively monitoring pipe temperatures and making the most of the Pipe Range Extender in these specific scenarios, please consult our Help Center article: How to measure temperature on pipes.

Configuration

The Wireless Temperature Sensor uses Heartbeat Interval (HBI) to transmit a message notifying the system that it is present and operational, which can be set to 5 min, 15 min, 30 min, 45 min, or 60 min.

Users can also configure Measurement Intervals to determine the frequency of temperature measurements. The available options are 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 15 minutes, and 45 minutes.

Settling Period

After the installation, the sensor is ready to start sending the readings to the Studio immediately. 

Check the signal strength

Tap the sensor to see its live response in Studio. The signal strength should show two bars (no signal icon) or more for a robust installation.