remote environmental monitor/logger

This is how fargin firmware could work with a hypothetical monitor/logger (hereafter referred to simply as "logger").

This logger is designed for monitoring various types of environmental data in remote locations. It has the ability to:

• acquire data from various types and number of sensors

• store the collected data internally

• upload the data to the cloud via satellite

• perform various other actions based on the monitored data (e.g., change monitoring/filtering/storage/upload interval)

Every logger consists of the same base hardware.

• • Various types and numbers of of sensors may be connected via standard wired or wireless interfaces (e.g. Modbus, SDI-12, CAN, 1-wire, Zigbee, etc). 

Every logger is programmed with the same native mcu code.

• • The native mcu code does not need to be configured - i.e. there are no "option switches" or compilation conditionals. (MTCW: embedded systems with "option switches" usually (1) have too many options to be maintainable and at the same time (2) have too few options to work for all users.)

  • DFU (device firmware upgrade) is never needed.

The interpreted code for each logger is customized to suit the application.

• • The logger is initially programmed prior to deployment.

  • The application is written entirely in Lua.

  • Some programming know-how is required, but it does not take a professional software engineer, since Lua is a low-threshold language.

  • Libraries, examples and programming support are available.

  • The logger does not need to be programmed prior to deployment - it can be programmed remotely via satellite.

Once deployed, these loggers are typically inaccessible for a year or longer. However, their application code can be changed via satellite messages. These changes can be for logging-related changes or for troubleshooting.

Contrast this hypothetical logger with some real devices:

EnviroDIY Mayfly data logger

• loosely comparable to this hypothetical logger in that it is intended for many users with differing requirements

• doesn't do anything until you do all the programming (extensive libraries and examples easily available)

• requires software engineering expertise

• code cannot be modified after deployment

• no built-in wireless interface

beadedstream D605 data logger

• turnkey remote logging solution

• integrated solar panel and battery

• integrated Iridium (satellite) modem

• not user programmable, but logging parameters may be modified remotely

• currently limited to ds18b20 (1-wire) digital temperature sensors

• firmware may be upgraded via bluetooth