# Setting Up the Data Logger

### 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.

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### 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**](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/building-3d-paws/setting-up-the-data-logger/particle-iot) for full details.

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#### 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**](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/building-3d-paws/setting-up-the-data-logger/raspberry-pi) for full details.

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#### 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**](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/building-3d-paws/setting-up-the-data-logger/adafruit-feather-m0) for full details.

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#### 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**](https://3dpaws.comet.ucar.edu/building-3d-paws/setting-up-the-data-logger/arduino-mkr) for full details.

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## Quick Comparison

| Platform                     | Strengths                                                                              | Weaknesses                                          | Typical Use                                       |
| ---------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------- |
| **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                       |

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## 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.