Load cell recommendations

[LV_Pro]

I've been asked to upgrade a test system, which I developed about 10 years ago, to use currently available hardware on a "modern" computer. The test system is on a laptop and consists of a load cell that is used to make drop test measurements. The current system's load cell is what the manufacturer called a "smart" cell which has an analog to digital conversion done at the load cell, the resulting measurements being sent back over a fairly long cable to a measurement box with both a digital display and an analog output, which I then read with a older, no longer support NI PCMCIA DAQ card. The main problem is that the data rate for this unit is no longer sufficient, that newer test requirements require higher sampling rates. I have been trying to find a replacement for this unit or suggestions on a load cell, signal conditioning set up that will provide a >1K/s rate and allow me to mount it remotely in a exterior location. The current test stand is outdoors (no room to change that) and the laptop is up to 30 feet (10m) away. The sensor doesn't have to be out there continuously, only when testing is to be done, but in our climate that might mean snow or rain (probably not to hard of snow or rain, the test operator is only under an awning near by.

Thanks

[aeastet]

Futek has sensors that can do exactly what you are looking for. THey have sensors that have the signal conditioning built and they respond well to the timming that you are requesting.

http://www.futek.com/index.aspx

Thier web site is one of the most useful that I have seen. You can also order the cable length that you are looking (for 30ft). You will need to the accuracy, repeatablity and range that you are looking for. They have many different types of sensors.

If you want something that is very good but may not have the signal conditioning built in I would look at interface. I use interface when I really need a very accurate sensor (0.1% FS). You will need to call them. Thier website really is not very good and they do not have the infomation that Futek does on their website.

I hope this helps.

[LV_Pro]

Thanks

   Is Interface the name of the company?

[lion75]

Probably HBM's digital load cells could also help you. They support sampling rates above 1ks/s, and the FIT5 load cell offers special housings for difficult environmental conditions.

Digital Load Cells

[aeastet]

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@LV_Pro wrote:

Thanks

   Is Interface the name of the company?

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Yes Interface is the name of the company.

[JB]

Have also a look at the load cells from Honeywell. They sell many models, with or without integrated amplifier, TEDS, USB...

I generally use the AL311 models with amplifiers from GEFRAN (2400 with analog output).