Product Overview
The Elitech RC-5+ is a reusable digital USB temperature data logger designed for accurate and reliable temperature monitoring. It is ideal for applications requiring precise temperature tracking, such as the transportation and storage of pharmaceuticals, frozen food, fresh food, vegetables, and fish. This device features automatic PDF/Excel report generation, an LCD visual display for real-time data, multiple start options, and customizable alarm settings. It offers high accuracy and a large storage capacity for up to 32,000 data points.
Image: Elitech RC-5+ Digital USB Temperature Data Logger. This image shows the front view of the compact, white and orange data logger with its LCD screen and two control buttons.
Image: Various applications of the Elitech RC-5+ data logger. The image displays the logger being used in an ice chest, cold chain containers, an incubator, and a cold truck, highlighting its versatility in different temperature-controlled environments.
Video: RC-5+ Reusable Temperature Data Logger. This video provides a general overview of the Elitech RC-5+ data logger, showcasing its features and compact design.
What's in the Box
Upon opening the package, please ensure all the following items are included:
- Elitech RC-5+ Data Logger
- User Manual
- Calibration Certificate
- CR2032 Battery (pre-installed or included separately)
Image: Elitech RC-5+ Package Contents. This image displays the data logger along with its user manual and calibration certificate, indicating the standard items included in the product package.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Temperature Measuring Range | -22℉ to 158℉ (-30°C to +70°C) |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.9℉ (±0.5°C) |
| Resolution | 0.1°C / 0.1°F |
| Data Storage Capacity | 32,000 points |
| Protection Class | IP67 Waterproof |
| Battery Life | Up to 1 year (typical usage) |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Dimensions | 5 x 1 x 5 inches; 1.44 ounces |
| Model Number | RC-5+ |
| Manufacturer | Elitech |
Image: Elitech RC-5+ Specifications. This graphic highlights key specifications of the data logger, including its temperature measurement range, accuracy, resolution, and IP67 waterproof rating.
Setup Guide
1. Battery Installation
The RC-5+ uses a CR2032 button cell battery. If the battery is not pre-installed or needs replacement, follow these steps:
- Locate the battery cover on the back of the data logger.
- Use a coin or a flat tool to gently twist the battery cover counter-clockwise to open it.
- Insert the CR2032 battery with the positive (+) pole facing upwards (visible).
- Align the battery cover and twist it clockwise to secure it.
Image: Elitech RC-5+ Battery Installation Steps. This series of four images illustrates the process of opening the battery compartment, inserting the CR2032 battery, and closing the cover.
Video: Elitech RC-5 Temperature Data Logger Video Guide. This video demonstrates the battery installation process for the Elitech RC-5 data logger, which is similar to the RC-5+ model.
2. Software Installation (ElitechLog)
While the RC-5+ can generate automatic PDF reports, for full functionality including parameter configuration and detailed data analysis (Excel/CSV export), the ElitechLog software is required. It is compatible with both Windows and macOS.
- Visit the official Elitech website to download the latest version of ElitechLog software. Look for the "Download" or "Support" section.
- Select the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. For macOS users, you might need to adjust security preferences to allow apps downloaded from unidentified developers (System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General).
Note: Some users have reported initial confusion regarding the need for software. Please be aware that while basic PDF reports are auto-generated, the software is essential for advanced settings and data management.
Video: Elitech Software for RC-5+ & RC-5+-TE. This video guides users through the process of downloading and installing the ElitechLog software for both Windows and macOS, which is necessary for advanced configuration and data management.
3. Initial Configuration (Using ElitechLog Software)
Before first use or to change logging parameters, connect the data logger to your computer via the USB port and configure it using the ElitechLog software:
- Open the ElitechLog software.
- Navigate to the "Parameter" (Windows) or "Settings" (macOS) tab.
- Log Interval: Set how frequently the logger records data (e.g., 10 seconds, 5 minutes, 1 hour).
- Temperature Unit: Choose between Celsius (℃) or Fahrenheit (℉).
- Start Mode: Select how logging begins (e.g., "Start by button-press", "Timer start", "Start immediately").
- Alarm Settings: Configure up to 5 alarm settings for high and low temperature thresholds.
- Time Zone: Adjust the time zone to match your local time.
- Click "Save Parameter" to apply the settings to the data logger.
Operating Instructions
1. Starting and Stopping Logging
Once configured, the data logger is ready for use:
- To Start Logging: If configured for "Start by button-press", press and hold the left play (▶) button for approximately 5 seconds until the play sign appears on the LCD.
- To Stop Logging: Press and hold the right pause (‖) button for approximately 5 seconds until the stop sign appears on the LCD.
Image: Elitech RC-5+ Temperature Monitoring Solutions. This graphic illustrates how to start and stop the data logger by long-pressing the left button to clear data and restart, and double-clicking the right button to mark an event.
Video: Elitech RC-5+ & RC-5+-TE Temperature Data Logger. This video demonstrates the basic operation of the data logger, including how to start and stop recording.
2. Viewing Data on Device LCD
Press the left play (▶) button briefly to cycle through the following information on the LCD screen:
- Current Temperature Value
- Total Logged Points
- Current Time
- Current Date
- Maximum Temperature Recorded
- Minimum Temperature Recorded
Image: Elitech RC-5+ LCD Interface. This graphic illustrates the various screens displayed on the data logger's LCD, including current temperature, logging points, current time, current date, maximum temperature, and minimum temperature.
Data Export and Analysis
The Elitech RC-5+ offers convenient ways to retrieve and analyze your temperature data:
1. Automatic PDF/Excel Report Generation
The data logger can automatically generate a PDF report when connected to a PC or Android phone, without needing additional software for basic viewing. For Excel (CSV) reports, the ElitechLog software is required.
- Ensure logging has stopped on the device.
- Remove the protective cap and plug the RC-5+ into a USB port on your computer.
- The device will appear as a removable drive. Open the drive to find the auto-generated PDF report.
- For Excel (CSV) reports, open the ElitechLog software and proceed to the next section.
Image: Elitech RC-5+ Auto-generated PDF & CSV. This image highlights the data logger's ability to automatically generate PDF and CSV reports upon connection to a computer, with the option for further export via ElitechLog software.
Video: How to Export CSV and PDF data report from Elitech RC-5+. This video demonstrates the process of exporting data reports in both CSV and PDF formats directly from the Elitech RC-5+ data logger.
2. Exporting Data via ElitechLog Software
For comprehensive analysis and different file formats (Excel, PDF, AELT), use the ElitechLog software:
- Connect the RC-5+ data logger to your computer.
- Open the ElitechLog software.
- The software will automatically detect the connected logger and display its data.
- Click on the "Export Data" button (usually found in the toolbar).
- Choose your desired file format (e.g., Excel for CSV data, PDF for a detailed report).
- Select a save location and filename, then click "Save".
Maintenance
1. Battery Replacement
The RC-5+ uses a standard CR2032 button cell battery. Replace the battery when the low battery indicator appears on the LCD or when the device no longer powers on. Refer to the "Battery Installation" section under Setup for detailed steps.
2. Cleaning
To maintain the device's performance and longevity, wipe it clean with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or submerging the device in liquids (beyond its IP67 rating for temporary immersion) unless specifically instructed.
Troubleshooting
- Device not recognized by computer: Ensure the USB connection is secure. Try a different USB port or computer. Reinstall the ElitechLog software.
- Software installation issues (especially on macOS): If you encounter "unidentified developer" warnings, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General, and click "Open Anyway" for the ElitechLog application.
- Logger not starting/stopping: Ensure you are pressing and holding the correct button for approximately 5 seconds. Check the battery level.
- Inaccurate readings: Ensure the logger is placed in an environment representative of the temperature you wish to measure. Check for any physical damage to the device.
- No data after logging: Ensure logging was properly started and stopped. Connect to the ElitechLog software to verify if data was recorded.
Warranty and Support
Elitech provides 24/7 US Technician Support via Email and Phone for any inquiries or issues you may encounter with your RC-5+ data logger. Please refer to the contact information provided in your product packaging or on the official Elitech website for assistance.
