Temperature Monitoring System Offers Food Processors High Level of Control

In December of last year, the NewID Company introduced TempAssure, a wireless temperature monitoring system for paperless HACCP reporting. Originally targeted to food service managers, TempAssure uses strategically located wireless temperature sensors that report to a central monitoring station for logging temperature data, generating reports and activating alarms when temperatures fall outside the safety zone.

For food processors needing to adhere to strict temperature requirements at various stages of production, the TempAssure system can offer improved quality and reduced waste by providing a higher level of control over production temperatures. Computer software acts as a monitoring and recording device, eliminating the need for data loggers or data logging devices.

The TempAssure system consists of: Strobe Sensors, Reader, and Software. The Strobe Sensors are completely wireless and are uniquely identifiable so that a user can track a particular location for unique temperature requirements. The Reader is connected to the computer and relays the Strobe Sensor information to the software. The software monitors and logs the readings into a text file for future reference and analysis.

System Diagram

Strobe Sensors
The strobe sensors actively measure temperatures in a selected area. Functioning as all-in-one temperature sensors and id tags, they detect ambient temperature and continuously send radio frequency information to the Reader. Two models are offered: One for normal temperature detection, and one featuring an external probe for extreme temperatures.

The readings from the strategically placed sensors are continuously sent to a monitoring station where the data is processed. Alarms or lower level alerts are issued when a temperature condition occurs outside the boundaries set for that location.

The temperature data, recorded from all active sensors, is compiled and presented for analysis or verification. In addition, a complete picture of the temperature variations is vividly displayed in a series of colorful graphs and charts.

Type	Sensor and Radio Frequency Transmitter
Physical Dimensions - strobe sensor casting	2 1/8" x 1 3/4" x 1/2" (5.4cm x 4.4cm x 1.2cm)
Weight	<20 g
Operating Temperature - strobe sensor without probe	Low: 0º C High:70º C
Operating Temperature - strobe sensor without probe.	Low: -20º C High: 85º C
Transmission Range	Typical 150ft (line of site).
Mounting Location	On flat calean surface using adhesive or hung using a clip or hook.
Transmission Frequency	Every second. 6 temperature reads per minute
Battery	Replaceable CR2032 lithium battery
Reader	TempAssure Reader - 02 - TAR916
Probe Dimensions (optional)	3 ft wire with 3/8" temperature sensor module at the end. Extends from strobe sensor casing.
Probe Operating Temperature (optional)	Low:-30º C High:120º C

Reader
The Reader accepts temperature and identification information from the strobe sensors and relays the information to the Logger Software.

Type	Radio frequency reader
Physical Dimensions	9 1/4" x 5 1/8" x 1 3/8"
Weight	1/2 lb
Detection	Internal 1/4 wave monopole antenna. 92 dbm sensitivity minimum, 105 dbm sensitivity typical.
Connections/Communications	RJ-45/RS-485 link to computer. 57,600 baud, no parity, 8 bits, one stop bit, asynchronous link to computer
Power Requirements	5VDC minimum @25 milliAmps
Mounting Location	On flat, clean surface using adhesive.
Operating Temperaure	Network Components 10º C to 40º C. Strobe Sensors: Depends on the model.
Accesories	TempAssure Strobe Sensors - 01 - ST1916 and 01 - STE916
Bus Adapter Kit	NewID Dongle Kit - RS232 to RS485 Converter; RJ45 to DB25F Converter; 7 ft CAT5 RJ45 Cord; and 485PS - Power Supply
Certifications	Part 15 FCC approval

Software
Logger software (Version 1.0) displays the activity of all TempAssure strobe sensors and logs their temperature readings into a text file for future reference and analysis. A diagnostic screen allows the user to monitor the system for any problems in the sensory network.

Reporting Software filters data on three different variables - date, day and time. Different levels of data averaging range from none to 6 hours.

System Features:
• Easy installation for software and reader.
• Temperature readings can be monitored from all active strobe sensors.
• Signals can be received up to 100 ft away.
• System can monitor multiple strobe sensors.

For more information contact The NewID Company, 400 Chisholm Place, Suite 114, Plano, Texas 75075. Tel: 972.423.3313; Fax: 972.423.5719.