In the past
Previously, the microprocessors available were not powerful enough to measure and simultaneously calculate various parameters. As a result, older measuring devices could only perform random measurements, where measurements were taken for a few cycles, stopped for calculations and then resumed. This approach captured only a few periods out of 50, leading to less accurate measurements.
Customer quote
„Every measuring device measures constantly, doesn't it..."
Today
With the advent of new product families like Janitza’s UMG line, advanced microprocessors featuring entirely new architecture, integrated performance scope and significantly higher capacities have been employed. These microprocessors were not available in the past and are more of an investment than conventional chips, but they allow for constant and gapless measurements, capturing all periods and providing much better measurement accuracy.
Market situation
In the current market, simple measuring devices and devices with economical or older measuring electronics still exist for random measurement. In fact, random measurement is dominant in the global market and remains a common engineering practice. In some cases, energy is measured constantly, but other values are acquired on a random sampling basis.
Summary
Constant measurement requires higher quality components and offers considerably higher accuracy. By constantly measuring all values, devices can capture more precise and reliable data, enabling better analysis and optimization of energy consumption and power quality.