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most responsive of the three temperature readings (BT, ET, MET). Thus, it is an excellent choice to
monitor the effects of heater and blower control changes.
Measuring Devices
Energy Monitors:
Some owners like to see the power displayed in Watts, rather than amperes, as
indicated by the current meter, as this is more precise. A Watt is a Watt. These owners often add an
energy monitor, such as the KIll-a-Watt
®
, or one of its clones. This type of meter provides a more
accurate indication of the consumed power, as it does not matter what the voltage is. Also, it allows
users to compare settings between roasters, even if one operates on 120-Volts and the other on 220-
Volts.
Digital Thermometers:
Consumer-grade digital thermometers are available everywhere. The only
important thing is that the type and the plug match with the thermocouple. If only a BT measurement is
needed, many inexpensive single-channel meters are readily available. Some multimeters include a
single K-type socket and a selector-switch position to convert the voltage into the equivalent
temperature. If using multiple probes, multichannel thermometers are available, the most common
having either two or four ports. A quick search of popular online sites, such as Amazon, will turn up
dozens.
Data Meters:
However, digital thermometers and multimeters usually lack a computer interface. If a
computer connection is wanted, lab-quality meters with a data port are available in one to four-channel
versions. Arguably the most popular is the Mastech MS-6514. It is a 2-port meter that can run on its
internal battery or a standard 5-volt USB power supply. A meter’s advantage over a thermometer is that
a thermometer cannot interface to a computer; it only provides a temperature reading. On the other
hand, a meter provides both a computer interface and a digital readout. So, one can use it with or
without a computer.
Custom Interfaces:
Small single-board computers, such as the Arduino, can e used to interface
between the Quest and a computer. Similar input/output devices such as those from Phidget are even
more popular. How to use these is beyond the scope of this handbook. Find information on Arduino
. Find information on Phidgets here:
. Search the Home-Barista website.
for additional information.
Using Artisan With the Quest
Artisan is arguably the most popular open-source computer-based roasting application.
Artisan doesn’t have an inbuilt configuration for the Quest. You have to configure it yourself
depending on what meter or interface you purchased. The Phidget is arguably the easiest, as Artisan has
inbuilt configurations for them. The meter reads the temperatures and sends them to Artisan. Once you
have that connected, follow the steps below.
1.
Skim the following pages, derived from the
Artisan RoasterScope can do, and then go back and read the pages of interest in detail. For each