Tools for downloading and interpreting data captured by the PakSense Labels
PakSense customers use PakSense Readers and Software to download and interpret data.

Downloading Data with the PakSense Ultra Contact Reader
Powered by 2 AAA batteries, the PakSense Ultra Contact Reader is a portable device that is just slightly larger than a deck of cards.  It can be used to download data from both PakSense Ultra Contact and Ultra Wireless Labels. To download data, 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 Ultra Contact Reader can store information from up to 16 labels before a download is required.

Downloading Data with the PakSense Ultra Wireless Reader

The PakSense Ultra Wireless Reader is used to download data from Ultra Wireless Labels.

With the simple touch of a button, the Ultra Wireless Reader will collect data from any Ultra Wireless Label within 300 feet (91 meters) line of sight or 60 feet (18 meters) obstructed.  Information from up to 30 Ultra Wireless Labels can be collected at once. Data can be examined on the screen of the Ultra Wireless Reader immediately after download. Data can then be downloaded into files on a PC for permanent record keeping.

Interpreting the Data with the PakSense Software
Both Ultra Contact and Ultra Wireless Readers interface with the PakSense Software application. Users simply attach either 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.