A strain gauge is a small sensor whose resistance changes depending on the strain experienced by the structure it is attached to. They are similar to Load Cells, but are useful for applications where the structure has already been built. For example, you could use a strain gauge and a bridge interface to measure the strain on various segments of the chassis of a robot or vehicle.
This strain gauge is designed to be used with steel structures. It can be used with other materials, but using steel will result in the lowest sensitivity to changes in temperature.
For more information on the different types of strain gauges and how to properly install them, have a look at our Strain Gauge Primer.
Connection:
This is a half-bridge strain gauge. You can either use two to form a full-bridge circuit, or use resistors with a half-bridge. For more information on bridge circuits, see the Strain Gauge Primer. Strain gauges require power and produce a small voltage differential when under load. In order to read this small signal, you'll need an amplifier or a board with a high-precision analog-to-digital converter. See the Connection & Compatibility tab for a list of Phidgets that will connect to this strain gauge.
Bridge Interfaces:
Load cells and strain gauges produce a very tiny voltage differential and must be read by a high-resolution analog-to-digital converter. The bridge interfaces in the table below can be used to interface them. For more information on how to properly attach a strain gauge, see the Strain Gauge Primer.
Product |
Board |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
Image |
Part Number |
|
Controlled By |
Number of Bridge Inputs |
|
USB (Mini-USB) |
4 |
||
|
VINT |
2 |
Included:
Specifications:
Sensor Properties |
|
---|---|
Controlled By |
Bridge Input |
Sensor Type |
Half-bridge Strain Gauge |
Strain Gauge Mount Type |
Steel |
Electrical Properties |
|
Resistance Value |
(per quarter-bridge) 1 kΩ |
Physical Properties |
|
Backing Material |
Phenolic Resin |
Active Area Length |
3 mm |
Customs Information |
|
Canadian HS Export Code |
8423.90.00 |
American HTS Import Code |
8423.90.10.00 |
Country of Origin |
CN (China) |
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