Tools for downloading and interpreting data captured by the PakSense Label
PakSense customers employ the PakSense Reader and PakSense Software to extract and interpret data usually when alerted to do so by the flashing amber LEDs on the label. Amber LEDs indicate that shipping conditions drifted outside of acceptable temperature range for an unacceptable amount of time and further investigation is recommended.

Downloading Data with the PakSense Reader
Powered by 2 AAA batteries, the PakSense Reader is a portable device that is just slightly larger than a deck of cards. To download data from the label, users simply connect the pins of the reader to the corresponding circles on the label. A flashing green LED on the reader indicates that information is being downloaded; a solid green indicator indicates that the download is complete. The PakSense Reader can store information from up to 16 labels before a download is required.

Interpreting the Data with the PakSense Software
Information collected by the PakSense Reader is downloaded to a PC via a USB connection. Users simply attach the reader via a USB cable to their computer and start the PakSense Software application. The software downloads all of the data collected by each label, formats it into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, and automatically stores a local copy of the information on the user’s PC. The user can select the information to be downloaded in °F or °C via a drop down menu selection.

Data on each label is stored as a unique file and each contains three primary pieces of information.  First, a graph is provided which gives a quick visual display of temperature fluctuations experienced during shipping.  Second, a spread sheet is provided that indicates the temperature taken in a time/date matrix.  Temperature measurements are taken every minute and averaged for a five minute period or can be programmed to the customer’s exact specifications. Total time out of temperature range is also displayed. Information found in the matrix enables the user to pinpoint the date and time that shipping conditions drifted outside of acceptable temperature range and for how long.

Finally, PakSense can interpret all data collected in a time/temperature algorithm and provide the customer with a remaining shelf-life estimate or PakSense Quality Indicator (PQI). Users will be able to estimate what effect temperature variation has had on a product’s shelf life and use this information to make better decisions about product quality and safety.

A Two Tiered Defense
The PakSense product portfolio provides two layers of information to help determine if product has stayed within an acceptable temperature range.  The first line of defense is the LED indicator on the label.  LEDs give quick visual indication on whether shipping conditions remained within acceptable temperature range. If the LED is green, conditions never drifted outside of acceptable temperature specifications. However, if the LED is amber, further scrutiny is recommended. This is where the PakSense Reader and PakSense Software can provide further insight into the state of a product during its distribution.

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