Dual-Range Force Sensor (DFS-BTA)
Specifications and User Guide

TROUBLESHOOTING
-Primary Test: Does the sensor read near zero when no force is applied? Does the sensor read a positive value when pulling, and a negative value when pushing?
-Secondary Test: Point the hook downward. With nothing attached, note the reading. Then hang a 500 g mass from the hook and note the new reading. Is the difference approximately 4.9 N?

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

RELATED TIL ENTRIES
–How do I put the Vernier Dynamics System mass and the dual range force sensor on the green metal dynamics cart at the same time?
–What is the best way to arrange the Dual-Range Force Sensor and Pasco masses on the same dynamics cart?
–How can I change the sign of the force reading? (Make either push or pull positive or negative)
–Dual Range Force Sensor does not respond to a push, but does measure a pull.
–Can your force sensors be used in a test section of a wind tunnel for educational demonstrations?
–What is the difference between the Dual Range Force Sensor and the Student Force Sensor?
–My Dual-Range Force Sensor is noisy when used with a Motion Detector and LabPro.
–Why does my data table have holes (empty cells) in it?
–Problems with force sensor giving bad readings because hex barrel has been removed and improperly reinstalled.
–What replacement parts are available for the Force Sensor?
–Which version Dual-Range Force Sensor do I have?
–How can I make my own hoop bumper to use with a Vernier force sensor?

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–My force sensor fell into the floor, and now the hex bolt sheared off inside the load cell.
–Can the cable on a Dual Range Force Sensor be repaired?

SPECIFICATIONS
–What is the thread on the bumpers and hooks for Vernier Force Sensors?
–What nut size will work the the accessory rod that comes with photogates and force sensors?

CALIBRATION
Calibrate? No. The sensor is set to the stored calibration before shipping.

If you wish to calibrate the sensor, you will need to 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 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 calibration using the +/-50 N range, use a one kilogram mass (9.8 newtons). Do not exceed the selected range setting during calibration.

If you wish to store a calibration to the sensor, see How do I store the calibration for my sensor using Logger Pro?

RELATED VERNIER PRODUCTS
–Mass for Dynamics Cart (MASS)
–Air Track Adapter (ATA-DFS)
–Force Table Adapter (FTA-DFS)
–Replacement Rod, 5 inch (ACC-ROD)
–Dual-Range Force Sensor Replacement Parts Kit (DFS-RPK)