New software tool saves sensor data

A new backup and restore solution is said to secure and save data from out-of-service or replaced level sensors and pressure sensors.

Measurement technology company VEGA notes that smartphones and tablets are now standard equipment in industrial plants and that almost 40% of its sensors for level, point level and pressure are parameterised, read out, and serviced using Bluetooth and the VEGA Tools application (app.). The adjustment of sensors in hazardous zones or hard-to-reach measuring points is made considerably easier with these wireless tools, as it can be performed from a safe distance of up to 50 m.

VEGA product manager Philipp Ketterer says that app-based wireless operation is gaining acceptance even in less demanding, standard applications, as a result of the added convenience and speed of these technologies.

"Actually, the same arguments for Bluetooth in industry apply to the private use of wireless: It saves an enormous amount of wiring and time, and ultimately, costs," he adds.

Sensors monitor the status and quality of individual production steps and store important information related to settings, diagnostics and the status of machines and systems and universally accessible process data is regarded as an important prerequisite for reliable, cost-effective production, and users always require reliable access to all sensor parameters, as well as an added backup solution.

VEGA offers a cloud solution to provide support for users, as well as its new ‘Backup & Restore’ software tool, provided free of charge to VEGA customers, with the option to back up and restore sensor data. Access to the service is provided by the instrument device type manager, or DTM, and the VEGA Tools app. The app enables sensors to be directly controlled and adjusted using a smartphone or tablet.

The software tool also allows for flexible backups and quick restores to ensure that process data is available for immediate reinstatement of device settings, diagnostics, or process analysis.

The company explains that all parameters can be saved securely in the VEGA cloud at regular intervals, enabling companies to permanently secure complex, ever-growing data flow.