When you need to log multiple analog signals, the right piece of gear depends on whether you want a complete control-and-recording station or a compact front end that streams data to a computer. Both of these pre-owned units deliver real data acquisition - but they go about it in very different ways.
The Eurotherm Nanodac is a panel-style recorder with a controller built in, while the IOtech Personal Daq/56 is a computer-connected measurement module. Understanding that distinction is the first step to choosing the one that fits your bench.
Quick Verdict
The Eurotherm Nanodac, at $416.04, is the practical pick if you want a recorder that also acts as a process controller. The IOtech Personal Daq/56, at $599.99, is the cleaner choice if your work is built around a computer and you need a computer-connected acquisition front end. Both units are used, with the Eurotherm showing cosmetic wear and the IOtech described as excellent in its condition.
Comparison at a Glance
| Product | Price | Relative price | What it does best |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eurotherm Nanodac | $416.04 | Adds display, Ethernet, and relay outputs to data logging | |
| IOtech Personal Daq/56 | $599.99 | Provides 22-bit acquisition with four screw-terminal blocks |
Where Each Product Wins
The Eurotherm Nanodac is the more complete package when you need to monitor and act on a signal without external hardware. It is well suited to small process setups where you want to log data and drive a simple alarm or control output from the same box. The IOtech Personal Daq/56, on the other hand, is the better fit when you want a straightforward wired input stage. Its included terminal blocks and cable reduce the amount of extra shopping you have to do.
Product Notes
Eurotherm Nanodac Invensys Recorder Process Controller Data Logger Ethernet USB
This used British-made unit is a genuine process recorder and controller. The color display gives you an at-a-glance view of trends, while the USB host port and Ethernet connectivity make it straightforward to pull logged records into your own files. It also offers multiple universal analog inputs and relay outputs, so it can handle a small control loop on its own. The main downside is cosmetic: the description mentions light scratches and minor marks on the bezel, so it will show its age. That combination makes it a versatile centerpiece for a small test bench.
IOtech Personal Daq/56 USB Data Acquisition System DAQ56 22-Bit w/ Terminal Bloc
The Personal Daq/56 is a clean, ready-to-run USB data acquisition system. It was pulled from a lightly used classroom test unit and comes with all four removable screw-terminal blocks and the USB cable, so you can start wiring signals immediately. Its 22-bit resolution is a notable feature, offering a high degree of measurement granularity. This is a front-end device, though: you will need a computer to host the acquisition, so it won't give you the standalone display or control outputs that the Eurotherm offers. If your work is already computer-centric and you need a high-resolution DAQ with minimal setup fuss, that tradeoff is easy to accept. That simplicity is a real advantage on a crowded bench.
Which Should You Choose?
Pick the Eurotherm Nanodac when you want the box itself to do both logging and control. Pick the IOtech Personal Daq/56 when you want a front end that feeds your existing setup. Both are solid used units; the right choice depends on how much you want the hardware to do on its own.
