Do I need a special or separate computer to install Global Sensors CheckPoint?

Can I put a sensor inside a metal–lined cooler or walk–in?

Is there a limit to the size of a facility or the number of temperature points?

How much does it cost?

My budget doesn’t allow a large expenditure at this time. How can I make the purchase?

What if I damage one of the sensors–How quickly can I get a replacement?

My HACCP program requires that I monitor multiple temperature critical control points. Does Global Sensors CheckPoint satisfy requirements for HACCP and other documentation requirements?

What type of probes are used, and how about temperature accuracy?

Do I need to calibrate the sensors on a regular basis?

How do I install Global Sensors CheckPoint?

What about Internet database availability on a remote server?

How is Global Sensors CheckPoint a more effective system than manually taking temperatures on a regular basis and what is the ROI?

We plan on moving in the next few months or a year. How difficult is it to move the system?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Do I need a special or separate computer to install Global Sensors CheckPoint?

No. The program and the database can be installed on any PC that you are now using for your other applications, and multiple users on your network can access the program from their PC’s. If possible, however, we do recommend the program be installed on your server.

Can I put a sensor inside a metal-lined cooler or walk–in?

Yes. You can place the sensor anywhere inside a reach–in or walk–in cooler, or any other type of equipment, shut the door and the temperature data will transmit out.

Is there a limit to the size of a facility or the number of temperature points?

No. With the use of one or more signal repeaters strategically placed, the facility can be of any size or multiple floors. The number of sensors (temperature points) that can be used in a system is virtually unlimited.

How much does it cost?

Generally, the basic cost for the software and receiver is the same so that a small installation with just a few sensors will start at around $2,000. The cost per temperature point will become less for larger installations with more sensors, so that an installation for about 20 sensors may range from $9,000 or up, depending on the number of repeaters required and the type of sensors. There is an additional cost for the optional installation service. Please provide us with your requirements and a layout of your facility, and we can give you a free cost estimate.

My budget doesn’t allow a large expenditure at this time. How can I make the purchase?

Global Sensors CheckPoint is a very flexible and adaptable system with no need for wiring. Additional sensors can be easily added later with no interruption to your operations. You can purchase the minimum components now, and continue to add sensors as your budget allows.

What if I damage one of the sensors–How quickly can I get a replacement?

We can usually ship the same day, and replacing a new sensor at your facility can be done in a matter of minutes.

My HACCP program requires that I monitor multiple temperature critical control points. Does Global Sensors CheckPoint satisfy requirements for HACCP and other documentation requirements?

Yes. It satisfies HACCP, ISO 17025, and other procedures requiring full documentation. CheckPoint temperature sensors are NIST traceable, and all data and user entries made within the program cannot be deleted nor changed. All alerts are kept in history, and every alert and the corresponding corrective action can be identified by date, time, location and user name for full accountability and validation.

CheckPoint conforms to CFR 21 part 11, and the system is currently being used by the FDA Laboratories, the folks who wrote the rules in the first place!

What type of probes are used, and how about temperature accuracy?

Thermistor probes are used, and every probe is serialized and NIST traceable. The probes typically exceed the requirement for each application. For example, certain sensors used for laboratories have an accuracy of ±0.05°C. Thermistor probes typically do not drift out of calibration, unless they are physically damaged.

Do I need to calibrate the sensors on a regular basis?

The need for re–calibration depends on your application. If you are a foodservice or processing operation, your HACCP may only require your in-house accuracy validation. A laboratory may require an annual calibration certificate, which we can supply. If an annual certificate is required, then we can provide special sensors where only the probes can be easily replaced so that the re-calibration job is quick and simple.

How do I install Global Sensors CheckPoint?

You can install the system on your own and we can provide phone support. However, our optional installation service can save you a lot of time and effort especially for large or complex installations, and get it right the first time. Our experienced personnel will come to your facility to install the wireless equipment and software, set up the program to meet your requirements, train all users, and verify that the total system performs to your satisfaction. Typically, you will be up and running in 2 days.

What about Internet database availability on a remote server?

We strongly believe that the equipment information and the historical temperature data collected from your facility are proprietary to you and can be sensitive information. It should never be kept on vendor’s outside computer where you may lose control. Moreover, there is no reason to use an outside server since you can always access the data over your own network, with remote access software such as PC Anywhere, or by accessing your intranet via your own website.

For this reason, Global Sensors does not provide Internet database availability.

How is Global Sensors CheckPoint a more effective system than manually taking temperatures on a regular basis and what is the ROI?

ROI study of CheckPoint has shown that the payback through labor savings, consistency of data, and loss prevention can be a few months. Human clipboard carriers to take temperatures are costly, prone to error, subject to ‘pencil whipping,’ and critical conditions may be missed. A computerized temperature data management can help identify mechanical or operational problems, maintain irrefutable history of all corrective action and comply with internal and regulatory requirements or audits.

We plan on moving in the next few months or a year. How difficult is it to move the system?

Remember, it’s wireless! Just collect all the sensors, unplug the receiver and repeaters and take them to your new location. Re-install at the new location, and the system is back in operation. If you need more sensors, you can add as many sensors as you need in the same system.