Force Plate Troubleshooting and FAQs

Force Plate, order code FP-BTA, $215
Specifications and User Guide

TROUBLESHOOTING

-Primary Test: Confirm that the range setting is set properly on the sensor. You may have to reset the data-collection program (File New in Logger Pro, Clear in DataMate, New in Data Pro) to access the appropriate calibration equation for the range setting. Place a known mass on the Force Plate and check the readings.
-Secondary Test: Changing the physical orientation of the sensor will change the reading when no force is applied. Reset the data-collection program or zero the sensor.

RELATED TIL ENTRIES

TIL 553: Can I use your equipment for a bridge-building contest?
TIL 1298: How short an impulse can I measure with the Force Plate?
TIL 1582: What activities are available for the Force Plate?
TIL 1834: What does the Force Plate measure?
TIL 2472: My Force Plate reads a constant -1000 N or +4000 N when on 3500 N range.
TIL 1241: Having Trouble attaching handle to Force Plate.
TIL 2472: My Force Plate reads a constant -1000 N or +4000 N when on 3500 N range.

SPECIFICATIONS

-new order code: FP-BTA
-old order code: FP-DIN
-Force range: -850 to +3500 N or -200 to +850 N, where positive value is a compression force
-Maximum non-damaging force: 4500 N (1000 lb) compression or 900 N (200 lb) pull evenly distributed
-12-bit resolution (LabPro, Go! Link, ULI): 1.2 N or 0.3 N
-10-bit resolution (CBL 2, CBL): 4.8 N or 1.2 N
-Dimensions: 28 cm by 32 cm by 5 cm

CALIBRATION

-Calibrate? No. The sensor is set to the stored calibration before shipping.
-If you wish to calibrate the sensor, you will conduct a two-point calibration. The first point is zero. Set the Force Plate on a level surface and remove all force from the Force Plate. Enter 0 (zero). Second point: apply a known force (known mass) to the Plate. To obtain a good calibration, the weight should be at least 25% of the range used for the plate (200 or 850 N). Enter the weight of the mass (note: 1 kg weighs 9.8 N). Be careful not to exceed the selected range setting during the calibration.

RELATED VERNIER PRODUCTS

-Extra Force Plate Handles, order code FP-HAN, $15