Installing Humidity sensors

This guide gives instructions on how to install Humidity Sensors 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 Humidity 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

Prior to installing our Wireless Humidity Sensors, it is essential to carefully plan where you wish to place the sensor and measure humidity and temperature. Keep in mind that these sensors are designed for point measurements, meaning they will record data only at the specific locations where they are placed. After defining your goals, 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 placing the sensors, set how often the temperature and humidity will be measured and transmitted by configuring the Heartbeat Interval for all Humidity sensors in Studio.

Mounting options

To acquire humidity and temperature readings in a standard office environment, it is recommended to install DT's Humidity Sensor on interior walls to minimize the impact of external temperature fluctuations.

Consider the following factors that might impact the measurements:

• Exterior Walls: Placing sensors on exterior walls can expose them to outdoor temperature fluctuations, affecting the accuracy of humidity and temperature measurements.
• Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can raise temperatures and affect humidity readings, potentially lowering relative humidity even with constant moisture content in the air.
• Ventilation Units: Areas with HVAC systems may experience humidity fluctuations due to heating and cooling, impacting sensor accuracy.
• Areas with Excessive Air Movement: High air circulation rates can accelerate moisture evaporation, potentially decreasing relative humidity readings.
• Windows: Unsealed windows can introduce temperature and humidity variations, influenced by outdoor weather conditions, affecting sensor readings.
• Heat-emitting Devices: Devices like computers and copiers can dry the air, leading to lower humidity readings in their vicinity.

Secure sensors using their adhesive backing on clean, dry surfaces by removing the protective film and pressing firmly. Avoid placing sensors on metal surfaces, as connectivity issues may arise. If needed, consider using accessories that can improve range and minimize the influence of the surface the sensor is affixed to.

Configuration

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

Settling Period

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

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.