PASCO CI-6537 Force Sensor - Manual (Page 14)

Force Sensor Model No. CI-6537
14 ®
Appendix B: Calibration using DataStudio
Software
All calibrations assume that the sensor produces an output voltage that
is linear with respect to the input signal. Calibration is done by setting
up two calibration situations (such as “no force” and a known force),
measuring the input signal in each situation in comparison to a known
standard, and entering the readings.
Whenever possible, calibrate the Force Sensor in the orientation in
which it will be used.
Calibration Procedure (for Short-Term Measurements):
You will need a known mass, such as 1 kilogram, and a support rod for
mounting the sensor.
1. Connect the Force Sensor to an analog channel on the interface.
2. In DataStudio, click on the Setup button to open the Experiment
Setup window.
3. In the Sensors list of the Experiment Setup window, double click the
Force Sensor icon to associate it with the same analog channel on
the picture of the interface.
4. Mount the Force Sensor vertically on a support rod. (Attach the
hook to the sensor and rotate to tighten).
5. Double-click on the Force Sensor icon to open the Sensor Properties
dialog. In the Calibration tab, the dialog box shows the default
settings for the calibration (i.e., 50.000 newtons at 8.000 volts and -
50.000 newtons at -8.000 volts).
6. Press the Tare button to “zero” the sensor. Without mass on the
hook, enter “0” in the value box under the Low Point. When the
voltage under “Current Reading” stabilizes, click the “Take
Reading” button for the low point.
7. Hang the known mass from the hook. Enter the mass value (in
newtons, e.g. -9.8 newtons if you used a 1 kilogram mass) in the
value box under the High Point. When the voltage under “Current
Reading” stabilizes, click the “Take Reading” button for the high
point. Click OK.