The FridgeAlert™ is a wired temperature monitoring solution, to ensure the most accurate information is provided as consistently as possible. While wireless temperature sensors offer convenience, wired temperature sensors offer reliability. We receive a lot of questions about the difference between wired and wireless sensors. We want to explain why we provide wired solutions for the FridgeAlert, and answer a few frequently asked questions.
Why do you choose wired temperature sensors over wireless ones?
Wired temperature sensors offer some advantages over wireless options. The most significant benefit of wired sensors is the stability of the connection. Wired connections don’t suffer from data loss from signal strength issues that can occur with wireless systems. A wired connection also helps to reduce interference from outside sources that can have an impact on wireless signals. The constant and stable connection from wired sensors provides the most accurate, real-time results possible.
Wired temperature sensors are more reliable and durable than their wireless counterparts, making them well-suited for applications that need consistent readings in challenging environments. They are easy to maintain because they do not need batteries like a wireless sensor. With a wireless system, you have to worry about maintenance and replacement.
Wired temperature sensors provide cost savings. Since you only need one sensor instead of multiple pieces for a wireless system, you save money on both the initial purchase price and long-term maintenance.
What are the pros and cons of wired temperature sensors?
All temperature sensors have a number of pros and cons that must be considered before making a decision about which type is best for your specific needs. Wired sensors offer the most stable and reliable readings, as they are connected directly to the device and are less prone to interference.
On the other hand, wired temperature sensors can be difficult to install due to their physical connection requirements. The wires must run from the sensor through walls or other obstructions to reach their destination, and this makes installation more time-consuming. If there are any issues with the wiring, it could cause problems with the accuracy or reliability of the readings. Some locations may not allow the use of wired sensors due to safety concerns or regulations.
Wired temperature sensors offer greater stability and reliability than wireless ones, but require more effort when being installed and setup. It’s important to consider all these factors when deciding which type of sensor is right for your application.
How difficult is it to install wired temperature sensors?
Typically, installing low-voltage wires is easy. Check out our video demonstrating a common installation here. However, the difficulty will vary with each scenario.
The difficulty of installation will depend on how many walls or dividers through which the sensor will need to pass. It is important to ensure that you can safely route the sensor wire from it’s installation point to the FridgeAlert. You’ll need to check for other network and electrical wires inside walls and avoid them.
The first step in installing a wired temperature sensor is to identify where both the sensor and the FridgeAlert will be mounted. The second step is to identify pre-existing wires and plan a route that avoids those wires. Depending on the complexity of the location, this could involve running wires through walls or ceilings.
The accuracy of wired sensors makes them well worth considering for many applications. With proper planning and installation, wired sensors can provide reliable readings for years without needing maintenance or repair work.
What are the pros and cons of wireless temperature sensors?
Wireless temperature sensors offer convenience and mobility but at the cost of stability and reliability. Pros include flexibility in installation, no need for wiring, and a typically easier setup. Cons include potential interference with other signals or networks and lower reliability than wired sensors. Wireless sensors also require a battery to power the sensor, and the life of a battery suffers in cold temperatures.
Wireless temperature sensors can be a great choice for applications where installation flexibility is paramount, such as mobile monitoring systems. However, if accuracy is more of a priority than convenience, then wired sensors should be the preferred option.
Will ControlByWeb ever offer a wireless temperature sensor?
While we can’t say for sure, it is definitely something that we are keeping on our radar. ControlByWeb has no current plans to release any wireless sensors in the near future.
