Setting Up the Data Logger
Compare Particle, Raspberry Pi, and Feather data logger options by connectivity, power use, and deployment needs.
Overview
3D-PAWS stations can operate using several different data logger platforms. The choice of data logger depends on factors such as:
network connectivity
available power
required processing capability
ease of maintenance and firmware updates
Currently supported platforms include:
Particle (Boron / Argon)
Raspberry Pi
Adafruit Feather
Arduino MKR
Each platform has advantages depending on the deployment environment and operational requirements.
Platform Overview
Particle (Boron / Argon)
The Particle platform is the most commonly used data logger for 3D-PAWS stations.
It provides integrated cloud connectivity, remote device management, and reliable firmware updates.
Key characteristics:
Boron → cellular connectivity
Argon → WiFi connectivity
Cloud device management
Over-the-air firmware updates
Low-to-moderate power consumption
Suitable for solar-powered stations
Particle Boron cellular variants include:
Boron 310 / 314 → GSM cellular networks
Boron 404x → North America LTE network
Because of its connectivity and remote management capabilities, the Particle platform is recommended for most remote operational deployments.
→ See Particle Data Logger for full details.
Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi is a full single-board computer that runs a Linux operating system.
It allows advanced data processing and custom software but consumes significantly more power than microcontroller platforms.
Key characteristics:
Full Linux operating system
Local data storage on SD card
WiFi networking
Optional cellular modem
High flexibility for custom software
Higher power requirements
The Raspberry Pi is best suited for research deployments or stations requiring advanced processing.
→ See Raspberry Pi Data Logger for full details.
Adafruit Feather
The Adafruit Feather platform is a lightweight microcontroller system commonly used in low-power environmental monitoring applications.
Key characteristics:
Very low power consumption
WiFi or LoRa communication options
SD card data logging
Flexible microcontroller platform
Because firmware updates must typically be performed locally via SD card or direct connection, Feather-based stations may require physical access for maintenance.
Feather boards are well suited for ultra-low-power deployments and distributed sensor networks.
→ See Feather Data Logger for full details.
Arduino MKR
The Arduino MKR platform is another microcontroller-based data logger that supports cellular connectivity and low-power operation.
Common boards used in 3D-PAWS stations include:
MKR GSM 1400 → GSM cellular connectivity
MKR NB 1500 → LTE / NB-IoT connectivity (availability varies by country)
Like the Feather platform, firmware updates are typically performed locally using SD card or USB connections, which may require on-site access.
The MKR platform provides a compact and flexible solution for low-power cellular stations.
→ See Arduino MKR Data Logger for full details.
Quick Comparison
Particle (Boron / Argon)
Cloud management, console interaction, OTA firmware updates, reliable remote operation
Cellular SKU limitations (310/314 GSM, 404x NA LTE)
Operational remote weather networks
Raspberry Pi
Full Linux system, advanced processing, custom software
High power consumption, more complex maintenance
Research stations or custom data processing
Adafruit Feather
Very low power, LoRa support, flexible microcontroller platform
Firmware upgrades require local SD updates
Ultra-low-power or distributed sensor deployments
Arduino MKR
Low power cellular microcontroller platform, compact system
Firmware updates require local access
Low-power cellular stations
General Guidance
When selecting a data logger for a 3D-PAWS station:
Particle is recommended for most operational deployments because it provides reliable connectivity and remote firmware updates.
Raspberry Pi is useful when stations require advanced processing or custom software.
Feather platforms are ideal for very low-power deployments or LoRa-based sensor networks.
MKR boards provide a compact cellular microcontroller option for low-power stations.
For most solar-powered remote stations, the Particle platform offers the best balance of connectivity, maintainability, and power efficiency.
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