FAQs

Is "110% of the maximum load" what a FlexiForce sensor can handle?

Question: Is "110% of the maximum load" what a FlexiForce™ sensor can handle?

Answer: Typically, the answer is "no". The mechanical properties of the different force range sensors are very similar. The polymer materials of which these sensors are composed will start to deform plastically around 10,000 psi.

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Why do I need to calibrate a FlexiForce sensor?

Question: Why do I need to calibrate a FlexiForce™ sensor?

Answer: Calibration is a very important step. There is a slight variance between sensors, which calibration corrects. When performed in an environment similar to that of the test environment, calibration helps improve repeatability and neutralize drift.

Refer to our Quick Start Calibration Guide for more details.

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What is the maximum period of not using a FlexiForce sensor before you have to recondition it?

Question: What is the maximum period of not using a FlexiForce™ sensor before you have to recondition it?

Answer: You should recondition the sensor if you haven't used it in 24 hours.  Please note that the more you recondition it, the better it should perform.

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How much error is induced if a FlexiForce sensor is not conditioned?

Question: How much error is induced if a FlexiForce™ sensor is not conditioned?

Answer: The error could be greater than the standard ±5% error if not conditioned prior to testing. You should always condition the sensor prior to use.

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Why do you need to condition a FlexiForce sensor?

Question: Why do you need to condition a FlexiForce™ sensor?

Answer: You should always condition the sensor prior to testing because the sensor's output changes the first few times it is loaded. By loading the sensor before your calibration, you will ensure that the sensor is producing repeatable results for your calibration and testing. It will also produce a repeatable drift curve. You can condition the sensor by loading it at 110% of your maximum load for a few cycles.

Refer to our Quick-Start Calibration Guide for more details.

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How do I connect a FlexiForce sensor after it has been trimmed?

Question: How do I connect a FlexiForce™ sensor after it has been trimmed?

Answer: If Tekscan trims the A201 sensors to two inches, four inches, or six inches, the sensor will come with three (3) male square pin connectors spaced at 0.1" (2.54mm). If you trim the sensor yourself, you will need to re-connect the sensor using one of two methods. You can purchase staked pin connectors and a crimping tool, or you can use a conductive epoxy to adhere small wires to each conductor.

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What is the resistance range of a FlexiForce sensor?

Question: What is the resistance range of a FlexiForce™ sensor?

Answer: The resistance range of the sensor is typically from  > 5MΩ at no load to approximately 5kΩ at full load. This can vary depending on the electronics being used to drive and read the sensor.

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What is the maximum recommended current for a FlexiForce sensor?

Question: What is the maximum recommended current for a FlexiForce™ sensor?

Answer: The maximum recommended current for the FlexiForce sensor is 2.5 mA.

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What drive voltages can I apply to a FlexiForce sensor?

Question: What drive voltages can I apply to a FlexiForce™ sensor?

Answer: 0.2V (as long as signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio remains acceptable) to 5V is the typical range.  The sensors output is also a function of the drive voltage/current therefore a constant voltage is recommended.

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How can I measure forces greater than 100 lbs?

Question: How can I measure forces greater than 100 lbs?

Answer: In order to measure forces above 100 lbs. (up to 1,000 lbs.), apply a lower drive voltage and reduce the resistance of the feedback resistor (1kΩ min.) The force ranges of the sensors are based on our electronics. Please refer to FlexiForce™ Specifications Table. If Using our ELF™ electronics, there is a feature in the software which allows you to decrease or increase the sensitivity of the sensor. Refer to your ELF manual for details.

Currently, the A201 and A301 model sensors are able to measure up to 1,000 lbs, whereas the A401 model sensors are able to measure up to 7,000 lbs. Keep in mind, that the A301 and A401 model sensors are currently not compatible with the ELF system.

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