Dual-Range Force Sensor Troubleshooting and FAQs

Dual-Range Force Sensor, order code DFS-BTA, $109
Specifications and User Guide

TROUBLESHOOTING

-Primary test: Confirm that the setting on the sensor box is appropriate for the experiment. In general, you should use the +/-10 N range if you can. If the forces exceed ten newtons, use the +/-50 N range.
-Secondary Test: Was the sensor properly zeroed? If you plan to use the Dual-Range Force Sensor in a different orientation (horizontal vs. vertical) than calibrated, zero the Force Sensor to account for this. This additional step makes the sensor read exactly zero when no force is applied.

RELATED TIL ENTRIES

-TIL 1108: What Vernier equipment is used with the Holt Spectrum Science manuals?
-TIL 681: Can you tell me the difference between the Dual Range Force Sensor and the Student Force Sensor?
-TIL 1262: Can your force sensors be used in a test section of a wind tunnel for educational demonstrations?
-TIL 757: What is the best way to arrange the Dual Range Force Sensor and PASCO masses on the same dynamics cart?
-TIL 1862: What is the threading on the bumpers and hooks for the Dual Range Force Sensor?
-TIL 1915: Dual Range Force Sensor does not measure a push, but does work with a pull.

SPECIFICATIONS

-new order code: DFS-BTA
-old order code: DFS-DIN
-There are no specifications given in the sensor booklet.

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. First point: Remove all force from the sensor. Enter 0 as the first known force. Second point: apply a known force to the sensor by hanging a labeled mass from the hook on the end of the sensor. Enter the weight of the mass (note: 1 kg applies a force of 9.8 newtons). For calibration using the +/-10 N range, use 300 grams of mass (2.94 newtons) for the second calibration point. For calibration using the +/-50 N range, use a one kilogram mass (9.8 newtons) for the second calibration point. Do not exceed the selected range setting during calibration.

RELATED VERNIER PRODUCTS

-Mass for Dynamics Cart, order code MASS, $12
-Air Track Adapter, order code ATA-DFS, $55
-Force Table Adapter, order code FTA-DFS, $29