When choosing temperature monitoring devices that can send a message when things get too warm or cold, there are a few basic choices. Which to choose is a question that comes up often.
There are three basic types of devices: wired including RS232 and USB, WiFi including Zigbee and Bluetooth, and wireless including GSM and CDMA cellular and satellite. The table shows basic factors to consider when choosing Temperature@lert temperature monitoring devices.
| Type | Std Sensor | Optional Sensors | #Sensors per device | Power | Connection Requirements | Standard Alert Types* |
| USB | 1-Temp | None | 1 | Operating Computer | Running Computer with Internet Connection | e-mail* |
| WiFi | 1-Temp | Humidity | 2 | AC | WiFi Network | e-mail* |
| Cellular | 1-Temp
| Humidity, Soil Moisture Wind Speed | 2 | AC (opt. 12VDC, Solar Panel) Includes Back-up Li-ion Battery | Cellular Carrier Signal | e-mail, SMS text, phone call |
*USB and WiFi can provide SMS text and voice phone messages with optional Sensor Cloud subscription
A quick review reveals USB and WiFi devices provide essential coverage and are dependent on connection to the internet to send the alert. Cellular devices operate through major providers and include back-up batteries, so are selected for mission critical applications.
For questions or additional information, contact Temperature@lert at info@temperaturealert.com.