The Need for Standardized Performance Characteristics for Digital Strip Chart Recorders

Abstract

Digital-based linear-array chart recorders are replacing conventional stylus recorders in telemetry data stations everywhere. They offer advantages in virtually all respects, and are becoming indispensable. But because of the completely different writing method and technology employed, it is difficult to make completely analogous performance comparisons between analog and digital chart recorders. This has led to some confusion when replacing aging stylus recorders is contemplated. Objectives: Establish a set of universal, standardized performance characteristics for digital chart recorders. Introduce appropriate terminology, allowing valid, repeatable comparison of old and new systems.