Data Logger
Updated
by
Travis Bates
METER data loggers are part of the ZENTRA System: a collection of data loggers, software, and compatible sensors to measure environmental parameters accurately and cost-effectively.
Your Data Logger
Connect
Status Lights
The status lights on your data logger provide quick visual feedback about the device’s current state. While connecting to the device using ZENTRA Utility is the most reliable way to confirm its status, the lights can still offer useful insights when direct connection isn’t possible.
The status lights will be active when the data logger is powered on or when the test button is pressed.
Pressing the test button will activate a self-test, data upload, communication test, and activate the Bluetooth® communication.
Status Condition | Description |
Solid Green Light | A solid green light after depressing the test button indicates successful internal tests and communication with the ZENTRA Cloud server. |
Solid Red Light | A solid red light indicates an error occurred. This could be from an unsuccessful communication test, low battery power, a failed internal test, or a firmware issue. If the solid red light persists, contact support. |
Slow Blinking Green Light | The logger is configured to record measurement data. (1 blink every 5 seconds). |
Blinking Green Light | The logger is communicating locally with ZENTRA Utility on a laptop or phone. The logger is running the communication module to communicate with the network. (blinks on and off every second). |
Blinking Green and Red Light | The logger has just been powered on by pulling the battery tab or by installing a new set of batteries. |
Timekeeping
The data logger records all measurement timestamps in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This time is updated daily via the GPS receiver.
Time Zone
The logger time zone is set by ZENTRA Utility or the Cellular network. The cellular network may provide updated time zone information during transitions into or out of Daylight Saving Time (DST). Some cellular updates are not always immediate, and some networks may not transmit time zone data at all. This can lead to discrepancies in local time display.
Clock Synchronization
When using ZENTRA Utility to connect to a data logger, you can disable the clock synchronization to prevent overriding the time zone with the PC or mobile device time zone. See the device manual for more information.
Enforce Time Zone
You can apply a time zone override in ZENTRA Cloud to enforce a specific time zone, regardless of what the logger or network reports.
Firmware
Check for Updates
Antenna
The ZL6 data logger has an antenna inside the device enclosure to transmit data to ZENTRA Cloud via cellular or Wi-Fi networks. Replacement antennas are available if yours becomes damaged, or an extension cable can be ordered to install an antenna separate from the logger for improved signal strength.
Install Extension
- Remove the four screws that hold the circuit board to the case.
- Carefully flip the circuit board over to access the back.
- Detach the cable from the cellular module at the pivot point.
- Snap the extension connector in place.
- Run the cable out under the board through the cable exit for port 2 or port 3. Replace the 4 screws to re-secure the circuit board.
For step-by-step visual instructions, see our Antenna Extension Install Guide.
Update Hardware
Hardware and SIM Cards
ZENTRA Utility Mobile provides tools to update the communication hardware and SIM card configuration in your device. These tools will detect the installed hardware and configure it to work with the network. Use these tools when installing a different module type or swapping the SIM type in your data logger. See the ZENTRA Utility guide for detailed steps.
Disable Communication
ZENTRA Utility Mobile has tools to stop data uploads by disabling the communication hardware to reduce battery consumption. Use this tool when remote communication is not needed, or a network service is not available at the installation site. See the ZENTRA Utility guide for detailed steps.
Additional Resources
See the quick start or user manual for more details about your specific data logger.
Data Logger Model | Manual |
ZL6 | User Manual, Cellular Quick Start, Wi-Fi Quick Start, Product page |
ZL6 Basic | |
ATMOS 41W | |
EM60 |
