P3 Instruction Manual

January 2013 130-000109

Model P3 Strain Indicator And Recorder

Instruction Manual

Micro-Measurements Division of Vishay Precision Group

P.O. Box 27777

Raleigh, NC 27611 USA

Telephone: (919) 365-3800 Facsimile: (919) 365-3945

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder Instruction Manual

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................ II

DESCRIPTION ................................................................ 2 1

1.1 GENERAL ................................................................. 2 1.2 FUNCTIONAL FEATURES ..................................... 3

SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................... 4 2

2.1 INPUT CONNECTIONS .................................................. 4 2.2 BRIDGE CONFIGURATIONS .......................................... 4

2.3 DISPLAY ...................................................................... 4 2.4 DATA CONVERSION ..................................................... 5

2.5 MEASUREMENT RANGE/RESOLUTION ......................... 5 2.6 MEASUREMENT ACCURACY ........................................ 5 2.7 GAGE FACTOR CONTROL ............................................ 5

2.8 BALANCE CONTROL .................................................... 5 2.9 BRIDGE EXCITATION ................................................... 6

2.10 COMMUNICATION INTERFACE ..................................... 6

2.11 DATA STORAGE .......................................................... 6

2.12 SHUNT CALIBRATION .................................................. 6 2.13 ANALOG OUTPUT ........................................................ 7 2.14 POWER ........................................................................ 7

2.15 OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT .................................... 7

2.16 CASE ........................................................................... 7 2.17 SIZE & WEIGHT ........................................................... 7

FRONT PANEL ............................................................... 8 3

3.1 USB INTERFACE ......................................................... 9 3.2 MEMORY CARD SLOT ................................................. 9 3.3 INPUT CONNECTORS .................................................. 10

3.4 LCD DISPLAY ........................................................... 10 3.5 KEYPAD .................................................................... 10 3.6 POWER CONNECTOR ................................................. 10


3.7 ANALOG OUTPUT CONNECTOR ................................. 10

OPERATION ................................................................. 11 4

4.1 GETTING STARTED .................................................... 11

4.2 POWER UP ................................................................. 11 4.3 INPUT CONNECTIONS ................................................ 12

Quarter Bridge Connections ................................. 12 4.3.1

Half Bridge Connections ...................................... 13 4.3.2

Full Bridges and Transducers............................... 13 4.3.3

Transducer Input Connector Option..................... 15 4.3.4

4.4 OPERATIONAL MODES .............................................. 18 Run Mode Operation ............................................ 18 4.4.1

Command Mode Operation .................................. 23 4.4.2

4.5 MENU COMMANDS .................................................... 24

Main Menu ........................................................... 24 4.5.1

Select Channels Menu .......................................... 25 4.5.2

Bridge Type Menu ............................................... 26 4.5.3

Gage Factor/Scaling Menu ................................... 29 4.5.4

Recording Menu ................................................... 33 4.5.5

Balance Mode Menu ............................................ 35 4.5.6

Shunt Calibration Menu ....................................... 37 4.5.7

Options Menu ....................................................... 38 4.5.8

Display Options Menu ......................................... 39 4.5.9

Output Options Menu ....................................... 41 4.5.10

Save Setup Option ............................................ 42 4.5.11

Clock Options .................................................. 42 4.5.12

Advanced Options Menu.................................. 44 4.5.13

Calibrate System .............................................. 44 4.5.14

Erase Memory Card ......................................... 48 4.5.15

Poisson’s Ratio ................................................. 49 4.5.16

Factory Defaults ............................................... 49 4.5.17

Version ............................................................. 49 4.5.18

BATTERY REPLACEMENT ...................................... 50 5


SOFTWARE OPERATION .......................................... 52 6

6.1 OVERVIEW ................................................................ 52 6.2 CONNECTING THE P3(S) TO THE PC ........................... 52

6.3 APPLICATION STARTUP ............................................. 53 6.4 SCREEN MANAGEMENT ............................................. 54

6.5 CONTROL SCREEN ..................................................... 54 6.6 MONITOR SCREEN ..................................................... 54

Identify a P3 ......................................................... 55 6.6.1

Peak Values .......................................................... 55 6.6.2

6.7 CHANNEL CONFIGURATION ....................................... 57 Channel Name ...................................................... 58 6.7.1

Bridge Type .......................................................... 58 6.7.2

Number of Decimal Places to Display ................. 61 6.7.3

Scaling .................................................................. 61 6.7.4

Balance (Zero) ...................................................... 62 6.7.5

6.8 SAVING AND RECALLING SETTINGS (PC) .................. 64

6.9 SAVING SETTINGS TO THE P3 .................................... 64 6.10 CHANNEL READINGS ADJUSTMENTS ......................... 65

Reset (Set to Default) ....................................... 65 6.10.1

Excitation Output & Noise Rejection Settings 65 6.10.2

Format Offscale Value ..................................... 66 6.10.3

Poisson’s Ratio ................................................. 66 6.10.4

6.11 P3 DISPLAY OPTIONS ................................................ 67 6.12 P3 OUTPUT SETTINGS ............................................... 67 6.13 CHARTING ................................................................. 68

Charting Controls ............................................. 68 6.13.1

Charting Colors ................................................ 69 6.13.2

6.14 RECORDING TO THE PC ............................................. 69

Setting up the Data File .................................... 69 6.14.1

Data File Format .............................................. 70 6.14.2

6.15 RECORDING TO THE P3 .............................................. 72 6.16 READING DATA FROM THE P3 ................................... 73 6.17 CALIBRATION ............................................................ 74


Shunt Calibration ............................................. 74 6.17.1

System Calibration Software............................ 75 6.17.2

Required Instruments ....................................... 75 6.17.3

6.18 PROGRAM MESSAGES................................................ 82 6.19 UPGRADING FIRMWARE ............................................ 82


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Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder


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DESCRIPTION 1

1.1 GENERAL The Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder is a portable, bat-

tery powered precision instrument for use with resistive strain

gages and strain-gage-based transducers.

The Model P3 accepts full- half- and quarter-bridge inputs; all

required bridge completion components for 120-, 350-, and

1000-ohm bridges are supplied. The Model P3 utilizes tool-free

input connections, and is dust and moisture-resistant.

Operation of the Model P3 is straightforward and intuitive, us-

ing menu-driven commands, and can be controlled by either the

front panel keypad or remotely via a USB connection.

The Model P3 utilizes modern digital signal processing tech-

nology to provide excellent noise rejection and stability. Pro-

prietary scaling and linearization algorithms provide unsur-

passed measurement accuracy for strain gage bridge measure-

ments.

Data may be stored on industry-standard secure digital (SD) and

multimedia (MMC) cards or streamed to a PC using the on-

board USB interface.


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1.2 FUNCTIONAL FEATURES The Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder has the fol-

lowing features:

Four input channels.

Direct-reading, backlit LCD display.

Data storage using MMC/SD cards.

Hardware and software support for quarter-, half-

and full-bridge circuits.

Built-in precision bridge completion for 120-, 350-

and 1000-ohm half and quarter bridges.

Automatic and manual zero-balance and calibration.

Intuitive, menu-driven operations.

Full control of all functions via USB Interface.

Selectable analog output.

Portable, lightweight and rugged design.

Battery, USB, or line-voltage power.

Intuitive, user-friendly software.


- 4 -

SPECIFICATIONS 2Note: Performance may be degraded at high levels of repetitive electrostatic discharge; however, no damage to the unit will occur.

2.1 Input Connections Type: Tool-free eccentric lever release

Quantity: Four

Wire size: 16 to 28 AWG [1.29 to 0.31mm Φ]

Transducer Connector Option: 10 pin bayonet locking

circular connectors are supplied wired parallel to the

terminal blocks. The supplied mating connector has a

.046 inch (1.17 mm) diameter. solder well.

2.2 Bridge Configurations Types: Quarter-, half-, and full bridges

Bridge Impedance: 60 to 2000 Ω

Internal Bridge Completion:

Quarter bridge: 120Ω, 350Ω and 1000Ω ±0.01%

Half bridge: 1000Ω ±0.01%

2.3 Display Type: 128 x 64 pixel FSTN positive, gray transflective

LCD with backlight

Update rate: 2 updates/second typ.


- 5 -

2.4 Data Conversion A/D Converter: Delta-sigma with integral chopper-

stabilized programmable gain instrumentation amplifier

Resolution: 24 bits. Noise-free resolution: 18 bits typ.

Analog output mode rate: 480 samples/sec.

Filter: Integrated linear phase FIR Sinc5 filter followed

by a Sinc3 filter with a programmable decimation rate.

Software selectable output rate provides >120 dB rejec-

tion of 50 or 60Hz and higher level harmonics.

2.5 Measurement Range/Resolution Strain Range: ±31,000 με at GF = 2.000. (±15.5 mV/V)

Resolution: ±1 με at GF = 2.000 (±0.0005 mV/V)

2.6 Measurement Accuracy ±0.1% of reading ±3 counts. (Analog output disabled,

instrument Gage Factor = 2.000)

2.7 Gage Factor Control Range: 0.500 to 9.900

2.8 Balance Control Type: Software

Control: Manual or automatic


- 6 -

2.9 Bridge Excitation Value: 1.5 VDC nominal

Control: Software enable/disable

Measurements are fully ratiometric, and not degraded by

variations in excitation voltage

2.10 Communication Interface Universal serial bus (USB). Cable included

2.11 Data Storage Type: Removable MMC/SD (supplied).

Size: 2GB maximum

Recording rate: Software-selectable from 1 reading per

second to 1 reading per hour

2.12 Shunt Calibration Location: Across bridge completion resistors

Control: Software

Values:

P- to D120: 11.94KΩ ±0.1% (5000με at GF = 2.00)

P- to D350: 34.8KΩ ±0.1% (5000με at GF = 2.00)

P- to D1000: 99.5KΩ ±0.1% (5000με at GF = 2.00)

Remote calibration: Switch contacts at input terminal

block


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2.13 Analog Output Value: 0 to 2.5V nominal

Ranges: ±310 με, ±3100 με, ±31000 με

(±1.183V change)

Typical error: 0.5% of full-scale voltage

Maximum error: 1.4% of full-scale voltage

Update rate: 480 samples/sec

Output Load: 2000Ω

Connector: BNC

2.14 Power Battery: Two Alkaline "D" cells

Battery life: 400 hours typ.

AC Adapter: 6-15VDC 100mA

USB: 5V 100mA

2.15 Operational Environment Temperature: 0° to +50°C

Humidity: Up to 90% RH. Non-condensing

2.16 Case Material: Aluminum

Accessories: Two rubber grommets installed in the lid

allow leadwires to enter the case with the lid closed for

increased resistance to water splash

2.17 Size & Weight Size: 9 x 6 x 6 in (228 x 152 x 152 mm)

Weight: 4.4 lb (2.0 kg), including batteries


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FRONT PANEL 3

USB

Interface

Memory

Card Slot

Input

Terminals

Keypad Power

Connector

Analog

Output

Connector

LCD

Display


- 9 -

3.1 USB Interface The USB interface is the communication channel between the

P3 and a host PC. All front panel controls (except the system

calibration option) are accessible via the USB interface.

When connected, the PC (running Windows 98, 2000, or XP)

will identify the Model P3 as a standard USB Human Interface

Device, therefore, no special device drivers are required to

communicate with the device.

The Model P3 is supplied with user-friendly Windows-based

application software which provides complete control of the

Model P3.

In addition, an ActiveX control is supplied to simplify the de-

velopment of user-defined applications.

The Model P3 can also operate as a stand-alone system, without

being connected to the USB interface. In the stand alone con-

figuration, all functions are controlled by the keypad.

3.2 Memory Card Slot The memory card slot accommodates industry-standard multi-

media (MMC) and Secure Digital (SD) cards. Data can be rec-

orded to the MMC by selecting the appropriate recording op-

tions. The multimedia card supports FAT16 or FAT12-

formatted cards, such as the one supplied with the unit. SD

cards up to 2GB are supported


- 10 -

Recorded can be either uploaded to a PC using the on-board

USB interface and the supplied software, or by using an indus-

try standard Card reader.

3.3 Input Connectors The input connectors connect the strain gage or transducer to

the Model P3. To attach a wire to the input connector, simply

lift the eccentric lever, insert the wire into the terminal opening,

and lower the eccentric lever.

Note: You should always tin stranded wires before insertion

into the input connector

3.4 LCD Display The LCD display provides the visual interface to control, setup,

and monitor the P3.

3.5 Keypad The keypad is a membrane-switch type. Functionality of the

keys is described in the Operation section.

3.6 Power Connector The power jack accepts a 6 to 15V DC source (0.1A max).

3.7 Analog Output Connector The analog output jack provides a 0-2.5 volt output signal that

corresponds to the displayed value. The output range is user-

selectable.


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OPERATION 4

4.1 Getting Started The Model P3 is designed for ease of use. This section de-

scribes the operation of the Model P3 Strain Indicator and Re-

corder.

4.2 Power Up The Model P3 is ready to use as received. The unit is shipped

with two D cells pre-installed.

The Model P3 has three sources of power: Battery, USB or AC

adapter. If more than one power supply is present, the power

source is determined in the following order: (1) USB, (2) AC

Adaptor, and (3) battery. If the Model P3 is using USB or the

AC adaptor, the system will always remain on as long as power

is supplied. If the Model P3 is using the USB or AC adapter as

the power source, an "x" is displayed on the lower right corner

of the LCD display, indicating the unit is running on external

power. If the system is running on battery power, the ‘x’ is re-

placed by a battery strength indicator.

If no external supply is detected, the system must be turned on

by pressing the Power key, .

When the unit is powered up, the firmware is loaded into the

DSP. During this time an audible beep will be heard, indicating

the unit is booting. After approximately two seconds, the beep

tone will cease, unit will display the opening screen.


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4.3 Input Connections Strain gages and strain gage-based transducers are connected to

the P3 through the input terminals. The P3 can accommodate up

to four input channels, labeled 1 through 4. To connect the

leadwire to the input terminal, lift the black arm of the desired

terminal, insert the leadwire all the way into the terminal, and

carefully lower the arm to clamp the wire to the terminal. Con-

nections can be made whether the unit is on or off. For connec-

tion information to the optional transducer connectors, see the

Transducer Input Connector Option section

Quarter Bridge Connections 4.3.1

The following configuration illustrates the connections for mak-

ing a three-wire quarter bridge connection:

Select the dummy terminal (D120, D350, or D1K) to correspond

with the nominal resistance of the strain gage.

350 D P+ D S- 120 D P-

1K S+

T


- 13 -

Half Bridge Connections 4.3.2

The following figure illustrates the connections for making a

three-wire half-bridge connection.

Full Bridges and Transducers 4.3.3

The following figure illustrates the connections for making a

full-bridge connection:

P+ S+D350

S- D120

P-D1K

T C

1K

D120

DP+ S-350

D P- S+

E XT E RN A L CA L C IR C UIT

T C

C T


- 14 -

In addition to bridge wiring, a switch closure is provided for an

external shunt calibration resistor. This feature will normally be

used to implement shunt calibration of the transducer according

to the transducer manufacturer’s recommendation.

The transducer manufacturer will generally specify exactly how

a specific value of shunt calibration resistor is to be connected.

In some cases, the manufacturer may also supply leadwires, in-

tegral to the transducer assembly, which are used for this pur-

pose. In any case, the transducer manufacturer’s recommenda-

tions should be followed.


- 15 -

Transducer Input Connector Option 4.3.4

Model P3 with Transducer Connectors

The input connectors connect the strain gage or transducer to

the Model P3. To attach a wire to the input connector, simply

lift the eccentric lever, insert the wire into the terminal opening,

and lower the eccentric lever. Additionally, 10 pin bayonet

locking circular connectors are supplied wired parallel to the

front panel terminal blocks. The supplied mating connector has


- 16 -

a .046 inch (1.17 mm) diameter solder well. Each channel uses

a separate (and interchangeable) input plug. Four loose plugs

are supplied with each P3 (one per channel). Wiring connec-

tions are defined as follows:

Symbol Function Pin

P+ Excitation Positive B

P- Excitation Negative C

S+ Positive Signal Input D

S- Negative Signal Input A

D120 120 ohm Dummy Resistor J

D350 350 ohm Dummy Resistor K

D1K 1000 ohm Dummy Resistor E

Rcal1 Rcal Switch Terminal 1 G

Rcal2 Rcal Switch Terminal 2 H

GND Common Reference F

Transducer Input Plug Pin Wiring Connections

If additional plugs are desired, they are available from Micro-

Measurements or through electronic parts distributors.

Micro-Measurements 12X300515 ITT/Cannon KPT06B12-10P

Amphenol PT06A-12-10P(SR)


- 17 -

The P3 uses the same transducer connector as the Model P3500.

The following chart shows the wiring differences between the

Model P3 and the Model P3500.

Symbol Function P3 P3500

P+ Excitation Positive B B

RS+ Remote Sense Positive J

P- Excitation Negative C C

RS+ Remote Sense Negative K

S+ Positive Signal Input D D

S- Negative Signal Input A A

D120 120 ohm Dummy Resistor J

D350 350 ohm Dummy Resistor K

D1K 1000 ohm Dummy Resistor E

Rcal1 Rcal Switch Terminal 1 G G

Rcal2 Rcal Switch Terminal 2 H H

GND Common Reference F F

Model P3/Model 3500 Transducer Input Plug Pin Wiring Comparison


- 18 -

4.4 Operational Modes The Model P3 has two operational modes: the run mode and the

command mode.

Run Mode Operation 4.4.1

In the run mode, the display is divided into four quadrants (one

for each channel), along with a status line on the bottom of the

display.

Ch1 με Ch2 με

+01000 +00216

Ch3 με Ch4 με

+00524 +00914 REC OFF CAL OFF


- 19 -

Display Pause 4.4.1.1

While in the run mode, the display can be paused (for example,

to make a handwritten record of the current data). To pause the

display, press the key.

Ch1 με Ch2 με

+01000 +00216 Paused ->Resume

Ch3 με Ch4 με


Note: While in the pause mode, recording to the MMC is also

suspended. To resume to normal operation, press the key.

Peak Read 4.4.1.2

In addition, the Model P3 can be used as a peak hold indicator.

The peak hold function is accessed by using the and arrow

keys.

Pressing the key will update the display if a value larger than

the currently displayed value is measured.

Ch1 με Ch2 με

+01000 +00216 Max Peak ↑=Reset

Ch3 με Ch4 με


- 20 -


To reset the peak display, press the . To return to the normal

(tracking) mode, press .

Pressing the key will update the display if a value smaller

than the currently displayed value is measured.

Ch1 με Ch2 με

+01000 +00216 Min Peak ↓=Reset

Ch3 με Ch4 με


To reset the peak display, press the key. To return to the

normal (tracking) mode, press .

Shunt Calibration 4.4.1.3

The shunt calibration switch may be toggled while in the run

mode by pressing the cal key. When activated, a precision

shunt resistor is placed between the P- and the appropriate

dummy (Dxxx) resistor, additionally, the Remote Cal switch

closed. The internal shunt calibration resistors simulate an

equivalent strain of 5000 microstrain at a gage factor of 2.000.

MENU

MENU


- 21 -

The lower right of the screen indicates whether the calibration

switch is active (CAL ON) or inactive (CAL OFF).


- 22 -

Auto Balance 4.4.1.4

If any active channels are configured to use the auto balance

mode, pressing the BAL key will initiate the auto balance

sequence. The auto balance sequence requires confirmation to

avoid unintentional rebalance of the signal.

Ready to Auto Balance

[BAL] = Balance

[MENU] = Cancel

To start the auto-balance sequence, press the BAL key. To

cancel, press the key. Once the balance sequence is com-

pleted, the user is given the option to save the settings to the

flash memory. To save the settings, press the key. In addi-

tion to saving the newly acquired balance readings, all setup

information is saved (identical to the “Options|Save Setup”

function). Press the key to continue without saving the set-

tings.

Save Settings?

[REC] = Save

[MENU] = Don’t save

MENU

MENU


- 23 -

Manual Recording 4.4.1.5

If the recording mode is selected as "Manual" recording, press-

ing the Record key will transfer the current readings to the

Multimedia card.

Ch1 με Ch2 με

+01000 +00216

Ch3 με Ch4 με

+00524 +00914 MAN REC 1 CAL OFF

The total number of records in the currently open file will be

indicated next to the MAN REC indicator on the bottom of the

LCD.

Backlight 4.4.1.6

While in the run mode, pressing the Backlight key will

illuminate the backlight for the duration specified in the back-

light options menu.

Command Mode Operation 4.4.2

The command mode is entered when the user is in the run mode

and the , , , , key is pressed, or the key

is pressed when the record mode is off.

MENU3 4

1 2K


- 24 -

Pressing the Menu key will display the Main Menu (see

section 4.5.1).

Pressing the Select Channels key will display the select

channels menu (section 4.5.2).

Pressing the Bridge Type key will display the Bridge

Type Menu (section 4.5.3).

Pressing the Gage Factor/Scaling key will display the

Gage Factor/Scaling Menu (section 4.5.4).

4.5 Menu Commands

Main Menu 4.5.1

The Main menu is displayed when the key is pressed while

in the run mode. When the main menu appears, all measurement

activity is suspended. Use the and arrow keys to highlight

the desired menu item. Choose the desired item by pressing the

key.

** MAIN MENU **

Select Channels Bridge Type

Gage Factor/Scaling

Recording

Balance

Shunt Calibration

Options

The following table briefly describes the menu items and the

section of this manual associated with the item.

MENU

3 4

1 2

K

MENU

MENU


- 25 -

Menu Item Section Description

Select

Channels

4.5.2 Displays the Select Channels

Menu. This menu is used to ena-

ble/disable each channel

Bridge

Type

4.5.3 Displays the Bridge Type Menu.

This menu allows the user to se-

lect the type of bridge that is con-

nected to each selected channel

Gage Factor /

Scaling

4.5.4 Displays the Gage Factor/Scaling

Menu

Recording 4.5.5 Displays the Recording Menu

Balance 4.5.6 Displays the Balance Menu

Shunt

Calibration

4.5.7 Displays the Shunt Calibration

Menu

Options 0 Displays the Options Menu

Select Channels Menu 4.5.2

The Select Channels menu is used to activate or deactivate each

channel. If a channel is activated, the channel will accept inputs

and the measured value will be displayed while in the run mode.

A channel must be activated in order to be recorded, shunt cali-

brated, or balanced. In order to activate/deactivate a channel,

use the and keys to highlight the desired channel. Toggle

the selection by using the and keys. Press the key

to return to the run mode.

* SELECT CHANNELS *

Chan 1: Active

Chan 2: Active

Chan 3: Active

Chan 4: Active

←→ Toggle Menu=Exit

MENU


- 26 -

This menu can be directly accessed while in the run mode or the

command mode by pressing the key.

Bridge Type Menu 4.5.3

The Bridge Type menu selects the type of bridge connected to

the selected channel. The bridge type menu is accessible from

the main menu, or by pressing the key. The bridge type

determines whether the internal half bridge is used, and also de-

termines the appropriate scaling/linearization algorithm based

upon the bridge type selected.

* BRIDGE TYPE *

Ch 1: Undef HB/QB

Ch 2: Undef HB/QB

Ch 3: Undef HB/QB

Ch 4: Undef HB/QB


The table below summarizes the meaning of the provided bridge

types. For more information on the calculations used by the

Model P3, please contact our Applications Engineering De-

partment at: [email protected].

The following bridge configuration examples assume that the

raw strain data is to be reduced to equivalent uniaxial strain

with the nonlinearity correction applied where appropriate.

3 4

1 2


- 27 -

The "Undef" bridge, either HB/QB or FB, is selected when the

net output of the active strain gages without mathematical cor-

rection for either Bridge configuration or nonlinearity applied is

desired.

Display Bridge Diagram Description

Quarter

Single active gage in

uniaxial tension or

compression.

HB adj ,-

Two active gages with

equal and opposite

strains -- typical of

bending-beam ar-

rangement.

HB opp ,-


equal strains of the

same sign -- used on

opposite sides of col-

umn with low thermal

gradient (bending can-

cellation, for instance.)

HB shear


equal and opposite

strains aligned with the

maximum and mini-

mum principal strains

to measure shear strain.


- 28 -

HB adj ,

Two active gages in

uniaxial stress field--

one aligned with max-

imum principal strain,

the other with trans-

verse "Poisson" strain.

Default Poisson’s Ratio

= 0.3.

FB 4 active

Four active gages with

pairs subjected to equal

and opposite strains

(beam in bending).

FB shear




(shaft in torsion).

FB opp

Four active gages in

uniaxial stress field--

two aligned with max-


the other two with

transverse "Poisson"

strain (column). De-

fault Poisson’s Ratio =

0.3.

FB adj


uniaxial stress field -

two aligned with max-


the other two with

transverse "Poisson"

strain (beam). Default


- 29 -

Poisson’s Ratio = 0.3.

Undef FB

Undefined full bridge

circuit. No correction

for Wheatstone Bridge

nonlinearity or active

arms.

Undef HB/QB

Undefined half or quar-

ter bridge circuit. No

correction for Wheat-

stone Bridge nonlinear-

ity or active arms.

Gage Factor/Scaling Menu 4.5.4

The Gage Factor/Scaling Menu allows the user to scale the in-

put signal to display the measured data in the desired engineer-

ing units. The gage factor/scaling menu is accessible from the

main menu or by pressing the key. In order to highlight the

desired item, use the and keys. Toggle the selection by

using the and keys. Press the key to return to the

run mode.

Scaling options are determined by the units selected. To change

the units, highlight the "Units" menu item and use the and

keys to scroll through the provided units.

Microstrain Scaling 4.5.4.1

If the selected units are με (microstrain), scaling is determined

by the gage factor of the sensor.

K

MENU


- 30 -

*GAGE FACTOR/SCALING*

Chan : 1

Units : με Gage Factor : 2.000

To change the gage factor, highlight the "Gage Factor" menu

item, and use the and keys to select the desired digit to

modify. The digit is changed by using the the and keys.

The default gage factor is 2.000.

Millivolts per Volt Scaling 4.5.4.2

If the selected units are millivolts per volt (mV/V), no scaling is

necessary, since the unit natively measures mV/V.


Chan : 1

Units : mV/V


- 31 -

Other Engineering Units 4.5.4.3

For convenience, the following other engineering units are pro-

vided:

Psi Pounds per square inch

Ksi Thousand pounds per square inch

GPa Gigapascals

MPa Megapascals

Pa Pascals

G Grams or G’s (acceleration)

Lbf Pounds force

Lb Pounds

Kg Kilograms

In Inches

Mm Millimeters

Mil Mils (1/1000 of an inch)

Rpm Revolutions per minute

M Meters

S Seconds

A Amps

N Newtons

V Volts

Ohm Ohms

Hp Horsepower

Deg Degrees

Rad Radians

Oz Ounces

m/s2 Meters per second ^2

ton Tons

degF Degrees Fahrenheit

degC Degrees Celsius

All of the above units assume linear scaling. In order to proper-

ly scale the data, it is necessary to supply the full scale value (in


- 32 -

the selected engineering units) and the mV/V output at the full

scale value.


Chan : 1

Units : psi

Full Scale : 1

F.S. mV/V : 2.000

Dec. Places : Auto

To change the full scale value, use the and keys to se-

lect the desired digit to modify. The digit is changed by using

the and keys. The default full scale value is 1.

The full scale value must be an integral value between +99999

and -99999. A full scale value of 0 is not permitted. The default

value is 1.

The full scale mV/V value must be between +15.625 mV/V and

-15.625 mV/V. A value of 0 is not permitted. The default value

is 2.000.

Note that during manual calibration, the full scale value is fixed,

and the full scale mV/V output is changed. It is therefore rec-

ommended to set this value at or near the expected full scale

value when manually scaling the channel.

To change the number of decimal places being displayed, high-

light the "Dec. places" menu item and use the and keys

to change the value. The range of decimal places is 0-3.


- 33 -

Recording Menu 4.5.5

The recording menu selects the recording mode and the rate at

which data is recorded to the multimedia card (MMC). The re-

cording interval menu can be accessed directly from the main

menu by pressing the key.

There are three recording modes: Disabled, Auto, and Manual.

Use the and keys to highlight the desired menu item.

Toggle the selection by using the and keys.

Recording Disabled 4.5.5.1

In the disabled mode, recording will not occur.

* RECORDING *

Mode : Disabled



- 34 -


In the Manual recording mode, selected channels are recorded

whenever the key is pressed.


- 35 -

* RECORDING *

Mode : Manual

Chan 1 : ON

Chan 2 : OFF

Chan 3 : OFF

Chan 4 : OFF


Auto Recording 4.5.5.3

In the Auto recording mode, selected channels are recorded at

the specified interval. Each channel can be recorded from once

per second to once per hour (3600 seconds). When in the Auto

record mode, recording will begin when the key is pressed

* RECORDING *

Mode : Auto

Chan 1 : 1 sec

Chan 2 : OFF

Chan 3 : OFF

Chan 4 : OFF


Balance Mode Menu 4.5.6

The Balance Mode menu selects the balance mode for each

channel. Use the and keys to select the desired menu

item. Change the highlighted selection by using the and

keys. There are three modes: Auto, Manual, and Disable.


- 36 -

Auto Balance 4.5.6.1

Channels using the auto balance mode will automatically be

balanced when the key is pressed while in the run mode.

The P3 makes a series of measurements and uses the mean val-

ue as the balance value.

* BALANCE MODE *

Chan: 1

Mode: Auto


Manual Balance 4.5.6.2

The manual balance mode allows the user to manually adjust

the balance. This mode allows the user to introduce an offset in

the reading. To adjust the offset, highlight the Adjust ←→

Menu item and use the and keys to increase or decrease

the measured value.

* BALANCE MODE *

Chan: 1

Mode: Manual

Adjust ←→


- 37 -

+00010 ←→ Toggle Menu=Exit

Disable Balance 4.5.6.3

This mode disables the balance function. Channels using this

mode have no correction for balance; however the initial ampli-

fier zero is removed. This mode allows the user to evaluate ini-

tial bridge offsets.

* BALANCE MODE *

Chan: 1

Mode: Disable


Shunt Calibration Menu 4.5.7

The Shunt Calibration menu allows the user to adjust the sensi-

tivity of the selected channel (gage factor or full scale value)

while a calibration signal is applied. In this menu, the shunt cal

switch is closed. Use the and keys to select the desired

channel to shunt calibrate. To adjust the calibration, use the

and keys to highlight the Adjust ←→ menu item. Once

selected, the and keys can be used to increase/decrease

the sensitivity.

SHUNT CALIBRATION

Chan: 1

Adjust ←→


- 38 -

+05000

Options Menu 4.5.8

The Options Menu provides the ability to modify settings not

directly related to making measurements. Use the and

arrow keys to highlight the desired menu item. Choose the de-

sired item by pressing the key.

* OPTIONS MENU *

Display

Outputs

Save Setup

Clock

Advanced

Version

Exit

MENU


- 39 -

The following options are available: Menu Item Section Description

Display 4.5.9 Adjusts the backlight and contrast

settings

Outputs 4.5.10 Controls the analog output mode

Save Setup 4.5.11 Saves the current setup to the Flash

memory

Clock 4.5.12 Adjusts the data/time of the real

time clock

Advanced 0 Advanced options

Version 4.5.18 Displays the firmware version of

the Model P3

Exit Returns to the Run Mode

Display Options Menu 4.5.9

The Display Options menu allows the user to modify the LCD

display parameters. Use the and keys to select the desired

item. Change the selection by using the and keys.

* DISPLAY OPTIONS *

Backlight: 5 sec

Contrast:



- 40 -

Backlight 4.5.9.1

Adjusts the duration of the backlight while in the run mode. The

backlight key activates the backlight. Valid options are:

5 sec The backlight remains illuminated

for approximately 5 seconds.





Toggle The backlight remains illuminated

until the Backlight key is pressed

again.

Note: If the backlight is illuminated while the key is

pressed, the backlight will remain illuminated until the P3 re-

turns to the run mode.

Contrast 4.5.9.2

The contrast control adjusts the contrast of the LCD display.

Temperature variations may make it necessary to adjust the con-

trast of the LCD for the best viewing experience. Change the

selection by using the and keys. A bar graph indicates

the amount of contrast.

MENU


- 41 -

Output Options Menu 4.5.10

The Output Options menu chooses the operational mode. The

possible modes are Normal, Analog out 1, Analog out 2, Ana-

log out 3, or Analog out 4:

* OUTPUT OPTIONS *

Excitation: ON

Analog Out: Off

Rejection : 60Hz


Excitation 4.5.10.1

ON: Bridge Excitation is applied during the measurement.

OFF: Bridge excitation is not applied during the measurement.

This provides the ability to identify self-generating noise

sources.

Analog Out 4.5.10.2

OFF: Data is collected at 0.5 second intervals. From one to 4

channels can be displayed. This mode provides the longest bat-

tery life, since excitation is on only during the A/D conversion.

Ch1 – Ch4: Data is collected at approximately 2ms intervals

(480 samples/sec) and the reduced data is available to the ana-

log output connector. This mode significantly decreases battery

life, since the A/D converter and excitation is constantly on.

Only one channel can be active at a time.


- 42 -

Rejection 4.5.10.3

The digital filters in the Model P3 can be tuned to optimize the

noise rejection from power line frequencies. Choose between

50Hz and 60Hz

Out Range 4.5.10.4

The analog output range can be adjusted to provide full scale

output range of ±31000 (High), ±3200 (Normal) or ±310 (Low)

microstrain at Gage Factor of 2.000. Note that while the output

range can be adjusted, the resolution remains unchanged.

Save Setup Option 4.5.11

The Save Setup option takes the current instrument settings and

stores them on the internal flash memory. When the system is

powered on the next time, these settings will be utilized.

Clock Options 4.5.12

The Clock Options screen allows the user to set the date and

time on the internal real-time clock. The clock is used to time

stamp the recorded data. Highlight the desired field by using the

and keys. The and keys change the value of the

highlighted item.

* SET DATE/TIME *

MM/DD/YY HH:MM:SS

10/17/02 16:47:43

←→ Change Field

↑↓ Change Value


- 43 -

Menu = Set


- 44 -

Advanced Options Menu 4.5.13

The Advanced Options menu allows the user to access less fre-

quently used commands.

* ADVANCED OPTIONS *

Calibrate System

Erase MMC

Poisson Ratio: 0.30

Factory Defaults

Exit

Calibrate System 4.5.14

This option allows the user to recalibrate the Model P3. This

process requires a Micro-Measurements Model 1550A Strain

Indicator Calibrator, or another device with equivalent features

and specifications.


Calibrate System

Erase MMC

Poisson Ratio: 0.30

Factory Defaults

Exit

System calibration is accomplished by making four measure-

ments on each channel (amp zero, zero, positive and negative

full scale). Once the measurements are made and the data vali-

dated, calibration values for amplifier zero and software gain


- 45 -

are stored in the internal flash memory. Readings are validated

by comparing the measured values with tolerances which are

hard coded within the firmware. If the readings fall outside the

established tolerances, the system will reject the calibration.

Once this menu item is chosen, the following screen is dis-

played:

SYSTEM CALIBRATION

Install calibrator

On channel 1 now

CAL = Calibrate

MENU = Exit

Press the key to begin the calibration process. To cancel

the calibration operation, press the key.

NOTE: Once the calibration process is initiated, it must be

completed in full; otherwise, the system will lose its calibration

information.

SYSTEM CALIBRATION

Set calibrator to

0 microstrain

CAL = Calibrate

MENU


- 46 -

Connect the Model P3 to a Model 1550A Strain Indicator Cali-

brator, configured as a full bridge circuit, to channel 1. Set the

1550A to read 0 microstrain, positive polarity, and press the

key. The system will make a series of measurements, and

evaluate the average readings. If the system determines that the

values are not within a reasonable range an error screen will be

displayed:

Zero measurement

Exceeds tolerance

Calibration aborted

Menu = Exit

The system will then revert back to the previous calibration val-

ues. If the readings are within tolerance, the system initiates the

next step:

SYSTEM CALIBRATION

Set calibrator to

+30000 microstrain

CAL = Calibrate

Set the 1550A calibrator to read 30000 microstrain (positive

polarity), and press the key.


- 47 -

The system will make another series of measurements, validate

the readings, and, if valid, will display the next step:

SYSTEM CALIBRATION

Set calibrator to

-30000 microstrain

CAL = Calibrate

Set the 1550A calibrator to -30000 (negative polarity), and

press the key.

Finally, the system needs to establish a true electrical zero (amp

zero).

SYSTEM CALIBRATION

Set calibrator to

S+/S- short

CAL = Calibrate

Short the S+ and S- terminals on the 1550A calibrator and press

the key.


- 48 -

This process will repeat on the remaining three channels. Once

the calibration process is complete, the system will store the

new calibration coefficients in the internal flash memory, along

with the calibration date.

NOTE: The Model P3 is a ratiometric measuring device, so the

measurement is not affected by fluctuations in the excitation

voltage. It is therefore important to use a Wheatstone Bridge-

based calibrator. Other sources, such as a precision voltage ref-

erence, are not suitable for calibration purposes.

Erase Memory Card 4.5.15

The Erase MMC option erases all files on the memory card.


Calibrate System

Upgrade Firmware

Erase Memory Card

Poisson Ratio: 0.30

Factory Defaults

Exit

Top prevent accidental erasure, a confirmation screen is dis-

played:

Erase Memory Card?

REC=Yes Menu=No

Press the key to erase the card. Press the key to abort

without erasing.

MENU


- 49 -

Poisson’s Ratio 4.5.16

This option allows the user to define Poisson’s ratio of the ma-

terial that the strain gage is bonded to. Poisson’s ratio is used to

calculate strain in bridge configurations which are dependent

upon Poisson’s ratio.


Calibrate System

Upgrade Firmware

Erase MMC

Poisson Ratio: 0.30

Factory Defaults

Exit

Use the and keys to increase or decrease this value. The

factory default is 0.3.

Factory Defaults 4.5.17

This option returns the P3 to its initial factory settings. The set-

tings can be made permanent by pressing the record key

when prompted.

Version 4.5.18

This option displays the splash screen and the version infor-

mation. Normal operation resumes after approximately 3 sec-

onds.


- 50 -

Battery Replacement 5When the P3 is operated under battery power, battery condition

is indicated by the battery icon, located on the lower right hand

corner of the screen in the run mode.

Ch1 με Ch2 με

+01000 +00216 Ch3 με Ch4 με

+00524 +00914

When the battery icon indicates that the battery is low (by re-

placing the battery icon with "LO" on the lower right corner of

the display), the batteries should be changed. To replace the bat-

teries, follow these steps:

Determine the location of battery compartment. Newer units

have the batteries accessed from the left side of the case. On

older units the batteries are accessed from the interior of the

case. Follow the following instructions that apply to your

unit:

Newer Units:

1. Locate battery compartment on left of case.

2. Push on knurled cover and rotate counterclockwise until

cover separates from battery compartment.

3. Remove the two "D" cells from the compartment, and

replace them with two new alkaline "D" cells. OB-

SERVE CORRECT POLARITY.

4. Reassemble the unit.

5. Reset the date/time (Options|Clock).


- 51 -

Older Units:

1. Remove the four screws located on the bottom of the

case with a Phillips head screwdriver and remove the in-

strument from the case.

2. Remove the two screws from the battery retainer plate

using a Phillips head screwdriver.

3. Remove the two "D" cells from the retainer, and replace

them with two new alkaline "D" cells. OBSERVE

CORRECT POLARITY.

4. Reassemble the unit.

5. Reset the date/time (Options|Clock).

NOTE: If the P3 must remain on during battery replacement,

connect a power source to either the Power In jack or the USB

connector.

Model P3 Data Acquisition Conditioner Instruction Manual

- 52 -

Software Operation 6

6.1 Overview The Model P3 is supplied with application software to config-

ure the P3 and collect data via the USB Interface. The software

supports a combination of up to six Model P3 or Model D4 de-

vices, differentiated by serial number. The firmware version of

your P3 (or D4) must be 2.50 or greater to work with this ap-

plication. Use the upgrade firmware feature of your previous

application to update the firmware to the latest level.

6.2 Connecting the P3(s) to the PC Connect the USB interface on the P3 to an open USB port on

the PC using the supplied cable. After the P3 goes through its

initialization cycle, the PC should recognize the P3 automati-

cally.

When multiple P3s or D4s are connected at the same time, it

may take the PC several minutes to recognize all units.

You may monitor the PC’s

recognition of each device

in the Windows Device

Manager. A USB Human

Interface Device will appear

in the Device Manager for

each D4 and P3 connected.


- 53 -

6.3 Application Startup Once the devices are connected to your PC, start the applica-

tion from Windows by navigating to the following item in the

startup menu:

Start>>Programs>>

Micro-Measurements P3-D4>> P3-D4 Application

The application will automatically connect to the devices. De-

pending on the speed of the PC and the number of devices, this

process can take 1-5 minutes.

When the software has recognized the devices, the software

will display a Monitor Screen for each device connected and

one Control Screen that contains the menu bar.


- 54 -

Note: Additional devices should not be added while the appli-

cation software is running. Exit the software before adding or

removing devices from the system.

6.4 Screen Management The Control Screen and Monitor Screens may be moved by

clicking and dragging the title bar. A Monitor Screen may be

re-sized by clicking and dragging the lower right corner of the

screen.

6.5 Control Screen The control screen gives you access to the main program menu

and the recording controls.

6.6 Monitor Screen The Monitor Screen shows the channel readings. By default,

the channel readings are active when you start the program. To

turn the readings display on or off, on the Control Screen

menu, select Hardware>>Real Time Display.


- 55 -

The screen on the left shows a Monitor Screen when readings

are inactive. The screen on the right shows the screen when

readings are active. Note that readings are grayed out when the

display is inactive.

Identify a P3 6.6.1

The serial number of each P3 displays in the title bar of the

window. If you need to identify which P3 is associated with a

serial number, you may select Hardware>>Identify and then

select that serial number. The front panel will blink on

the P3. You may also use the icon on the display area

to illuminate the front panel.

Peak Values 6.6.2

The display of peak values (“Min peak” and “Max peak”) may

be turned on or off with the menu item File>>Display Peak

Values. Peak values for all channels may be reset with the


- 56 -

menu item Channels>>Reset Peak Values. Peak values for a

specific channel may be reset by right-clicking in the channel

reading segment and selecting Reset Peak.

No peak values displayed

Peak values reset

Peak values displayed


- 57 -

6.7 Channel Configuration To access the configuration values for a channel, select Chan-

nels>>Settings on the Control Screen. (The real-time display

readings must be disabled to access this screen.) If multiple

devices are connected, click on the serial number of the desired

P3 under Devices. The front panel on that P3 will blink to con-

firm the selection.

Click on the channel to be configured. Note: Each of the four

channels on a P3 must be set independently.


- 58 -

At the bottom of the screen are three buttons:

Click Cancel to exit the screen without saving changes.

Note: Cancel will not undo any changes that have been

applied.

Click Apply to apply the configuration changes imme-

diately. Results may be viewed on the Monitor Screen.

Click OK to exit the channel configuration screen and

save changes.

Channel Name 6.7.1

The channel name entered will identify the channel on the

Monitor Screen and in the recorded data file. The default is:

Channel N, where N is the channel number 1 through 4.

Bridge Type 6.7.2

The bridge type determines whether the internal half bridge is

used and determines the appropriate scaling/linearization algo-

rithm. The following table summarizes the bridge types. For

more information on the calculations used by the P3, please

contact the Micro-Measurements application engineering de-

partment.

The following bridge configuration examples assume that the

raw strain data is to be reduced to equivalent uniaxial strain

with the nonlinearity correction applied where appropriate.

Select the "Undef" bridge, either Half-Bridge/Quarter-Bridge

or Full-Bridge when you require the net output of the active

strain gages without mathematical correction for either bridge.

mailto:[email protected]?subject=D4%20Channel%20Configuration


- 59 -

Selection Bridge Diagram Description

Quarter

Single active gage in

uniaxial tension or com-

pression.

HB adj

,-


equal and opposite

strains—typical of bend-

ing-beam arrangement.

HB opp

,-


equal strains of the same

sign—used on opposite

sides of column with

low thermal gradient

(bending cancellation,

for instance.)

HB shear


equal and opposite

strains aligned with the

maximum and minimum

principal strains to

measure shear strain.

HB adj

,

Two active gages in uni-

axial stress field—one

aligned with maximum

principal strain, the other

with transverse "Pois-

son" strain. Default

Poisson’s Ratio = 0.3.


- 60 -


FB 4

active




(beam in bending).

FB shear




(shaft in torsion).

FB opp


uniaxial stress field—

two aligned with maxi-

mum principal strain, the

other two with trans-

verse "Poisson" strain

(column). Default Pois-

son’s Ratio = 0.3.

FB adj


uniaxial stress field—

two aligned with maxi-

mum principal strain, the

other two with trans-

verse "Poisson" strain

(beam). Default Pois-

son’s Ratio = 0.3.

Undef FB

Undefined full bridge

circuit. No correction for

Wheatstone Bridge non-

linearity or active arms.


- 61 -


Undef

HB/QB

Undefined half- or quar-

ter-bridge circuit. No

correction for Wheat-

stone Bridge nonlineari-

ty or active arms.

Table 1 Bridge Types

Number of Decimal Places to Display 6.7.3

Enter the number of values you would like to have after the

decimal place on the displayed data.

Value Description

0 Display no decimal places; e.g. 123

1 Display 1 decimal place; e.g. 123.1

2 Display 2 decimal places; e.g. 123.12

n Where n is the number of decimal places.

Scaling 6.7.4

The engineering units for a channel may be microstrain (ue),

millivolts per volt (mV/V), or may be user defined. Scaling

options on the P3 are determined by the units selected.

Strain Gage Inputs 6.7.4.1

Microstrain: If the selected units are ue (microstrain), scaling

is determined by the gage factor of the sensor as follows:

Range: 0.500 to 9.900

Default: 2.000

Millivolts per volt: If the selected units are millivolts per volt

(mV/V), no scaling is necessary.


- 62 -

Transducer Inputs 6.7.4.2

Custom: User-defined units (such as psi or cm) assume linear

scaling. To properly scale the data, enter the following parame-

ters:

Engineering Units

Enter up to four characters. This will be displayed in

the channel segment on the Monitor Screen.

Full Scale in mV/V

Enter the millivolt per volt value at full scale. This val-

ue is used in conjunction with the Full Scale in Engi-

neering Units value. It is used with engineering units

other than microstrain (ue) or mV/V. During manual

shunt calibration, fix the full-scale value in engineering

units and change the full-scale mV/V value. It is rec-

ommended to set this value at or near the expected full-

scale value when manually scaling the channel.

Range: -15.625 to +15.625 (excluding 0)

Default: 2.000

Full Scale in Engineering Units

Defines the full-scale value for engineering units other

than ue or mV/V. All scaling is linear.

Range: -99999 to 99999 (excluding a value of 0)

Default: 1

Balance (Zero) 6.7.5

Balancing specifies that the current value of a sensor is the zero

offset reading. Because this zero offset reading is rarely 0.00,

it is typically subtracted from all subsequent readings. Channel

readings returned from the P3 have the zero offset removed.


- 63 -

You may auto-balance a channel, manually balance the chan-

nel, or disable the removal of the zero offset. The default bal-

ance value is 0.

Auto Balance (Zero) 6.7.5.1

The steps in performing an auto-balance operation for a single

channel are:

1. Enter all of the other channel settings before you

auto balance.

2. Adjust the sensor to the correct setting for a zero

reading.

3. Set the Balance Mode of the channel to Auto.

4. Click the Zero button.

5. The new balance value is reflected in the slide bar

and applied to the channel reading.

A zero (auto-balance) also may be applied to an individual

channel on the Monitor Screen by right-clicking in the channel

segment and selecting Zero.

You may also perform a zero (auto-balance) of all channels on

all P3s by the menu item Channels>>Zero All.

Manual Balance 6.7.5.2

Before performing a manual balance operation, it is recom-

mended that the real time display is active. The steps in fine-

tuning the balance value after an auto-balance operation are:

1. Perform the auto-balance operation; make sure the

value is applied. (If you don’t wish to auto-balance

first, then configure the channel and adjust your

sensor to the correct setting for a zero reading.)

2. Set the Balance Mode to Manual.


- 64 -

3. The balance value from the auto-balance operation

is reflected in the slide bar. The balance value is

displayed in raw counts.

4. Depending on the current reading and the desired

reading, adjust the balance value on the slide bar ei-

ther up or down.

The slide bar has the range selections of coarse, medium, fine

and ultra-fine. The coarse selection has the widest range of

balance settings and a coarser step size. Ultra-fine has the nar-

rowest range of balance settings and a small step size. The

medium and fine selections fall in between.

Balance Mode Disabled 6.7.5.3

Channels with the Balance Mode disabled will not remove any

zero offset from the reading; however, the initial amplifier zero

is removed. This mode allows you to evaluate initial bridge

offsets. Click the Apply button to see the changes reflected in

the channel reading on the Monitor Screen.

6.8 Saving and Recalling Settings (PC) You may save the application’s current settings to a file on

your PC with the menu item File>>Save Configuration. The

settings may be recalled with the menu item File>>Load Con-

figuration.

In addition to the channel settings, the Poisson’s Ratio, Record

Interval, Peak Value setting and Offscale Values are saved.

6.9 Saving Settings to the P3 The menu item Hardware>>Save Configuration to Flash lets

you select a device and store the current device settings to the

device’s internal flash memory. This will become the default

configuration for the device after a power-cycle. If you wish to


- 65 -

return to the factory default settings, use the Channels>>Reset

All menu item to reset the settings and then store those settings

to flash. You can also reset to factory defaults via the P3’s

front panel.

6.10 Channel Readings Adjustments

Reset (Set to Default) 6.10.1

The menu item Channels>>Reset All resets the channel con-

figuration values on all devices to their default settings.

Excitation Output & Noise Rejection Settings 6.10.2

The Hardware>>Other Device Settings menu item allows you

to access the Excitation Output setting and the Noise Rejection

frequency setting.

The bridge excitation out-

put should be enabled dur-

ing normal operation. You

may disable the excitation

output to identify self-

generating noise sources.

The digital filters in the P3

may be tuned to optimize

the noise rejection from

power line frequencies.


- 66 -

Format Offscale Value 6.10.3

You may specify the value that is used to indicate positive off-

scale and negative

offscale readings us-

ing the menu item

File>>Configure Off-

scale Display. This

value is used on the

Monitor Screen and in

recorded data.

If you are planning on charting your recorded data with a

spreadsheet, you may wish to change these values to a numeric

(for example, 99999 and -99999).

Poisson’s Ratio 6.10.4

You may define the Poisson’s ratio of the material to which the

strain gage is bonded using the menu item Hard-

ware>>Poisson’s Ratio. Poisson’s ratio is used to calculate

strain in bridge configurations that are dependent upon Pois-

son’s ratio. This value is shared among all channels on the se-

lected P3.

Range: 0.0 to 0.5

Default: 0.3


- 67 -

6.11 P3 Display Options Backlight mode sets amount of time the backlight remains il-

luminated when the backlight key is pressed while in the run

mode. Toggle means

that the backlight re-

mains illuminated

until the backlight

key is pressed again.

The contrast dial sets

the contrast of the P3

front panel.

You may use the icon

on the P3’s display area to illuminate the front panel.

6.12 P3 Output Settings When the analog mode is disabled, data is collected and dis-

played from all active channels. When the analog output is ac-

tive for a selected channel, the reduced data is available to the

analog output connector.

Only one channel can be

active at a time.

The analog output range

can be adjusted to provide

full scale output range of

±31000 (High), ±3200

(Normal) or ±310 (Low)

microstrain at Gage Fac-

tor of 2.000.

Please see the description

in the front panel section

for more information.


- 68 -

6.13 Charting Charting maps the real time display readings. To begin chart-

ing, select Channels>>Chart. The chart window will display

and charting will begin.

Charting Controls 6.13.1

The following fields displayed at the bottom of the screen may

be used to control the charting:

Pause Display checkbox – Suspends/resumes the

charting.

Update Interval – Enter the desired interval for how

often the chart is updated in milliseconds. The min-

imum interval is 125 milliseconds.

Number of points – Enter the desired number of da-

ta points (readings) to be displayed.


- 69 -

Min Y Axis – Two options exist for charting the

minimum Y axis value:

o One is to check the Auto (min) box. This will

automatically adjust the min value based on the

min value of the plotted data.

o Or, uncheck the Auto checkbox. This will allow

entry of a fixed value in Min Y Axis.

Max Y Axis – As with the minimum value, either

check the Auto checkbox, or uncheck it and enter a

value in Max Y Axis.

Channels - Select the channels to be charted.

Charting Colors 6.13.2

Colors may be adjusted by selecting File>>Configure Chart

Trace Colors. Select and save the colors prior to launching the

chart.

6.14 Recording to the PC The P3-D4 application software supports both manual and

time-based recording.

Setting up the Data File 6.14.1

To specify the data file name and location, click Select File on

the Control Screen.

Browse to the path of the desired

location, enter the file name,

then click Save.


- 70 -

Time-based Recording 6.14.1.1

The application records data on a periodic basis. To set the

interval, select File>>Record Interval. The minimum record-

ing interval for a scan is 500 milliseconds. A scan is defined as

one reading from all active channels. Active channels are dis-

played on the Monitor Screen(s).

Note: P3s cannot acquire data faster than 2Hz.

Time-based recording can be started, paused, or stopped from

the Control Screen.


Click the manual recording button Manual Record (Single

Shot) to record one scan to the data file. Manual recording can

be performed when time-based recording is active. The maxi-

mum recording rate is 8Hz.

Data File Format 6.14.2

The data is stored in a standard, ASCII-format text file. This

format may be viewed with MS Notepad or with a spreadsheet

program such as MS Excel.

The first line is the data header. All columns are separated by

the ASCII tab character 09 (09h). The line is terminated with a

carriage return and line feed.

Subsequent lines contain the tab-delimited data. All lines are

terminated with a carriage return (ASCII character 13 (0Dh)

and line feed (ASCII character 10 (0Ah).


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Text file shown in Notepad

File shown after import into MS Excel


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6.15 Recording to the P3 The recording options select the recording mode and the rate at

which data is recorded to the P3’s on-board multimedia card

(MMC).

The recording

options but-

ton is located

at the top of

each P3’s

display win-

dow.

There are three recording modes: Disabled, Auto, and Manual.

In the disabled mode,

recording will not occur.

In the manual recording

mode selected channels

are recorded whenever

the recording button is

pressed.


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In auto mode you

may configure the

selected channels to

record on a periodic

basis.

Manual and auto recording modes stop when the stop recording

button is pressed.

The number of data groups recorded is counted in the “Rec-

ords” field.

6.16 Reading Data from the P3 After data has been recorded to the multimedia card it can be

downloaded to the PC by removing the MMC card and using a

card reader on your PC. Or you can use the programmatic

function accessed by the button

To download programmatically, first select the file you wish to

download then press the download button.


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In order to make sure your MMC card doesn’t fill up, it’s rec-

ommended that you erase the MMC card after your downloads

have been verified.

6.17 Calibration

Shunt Calibration 6.17.1

Shunt Calibration functionality allows you to adjust the sensi-

tivity of the selected channel (gage factor or full-scale value)

while a calibration signal is applied. The shunt calibration fac-

tor is primarily used to remove any offsets due to lead-wire re-

sistance.

When you enable shunt calibration, a precision shunt resistor is

placed between the P- and the appropriate dummy (D120, D350,

D1000) resistor. The internal shunt calibration resistors simulate

an equivalent strain of 5000με at a gage factor of 2.000. The

shunt resistor is applied to all channels simultaneously.


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The steps in performing a shunt calibration are:

1. Configure the channel.

2. Balance (zero) the channel.

3. Enable the shunt calibration by selecting Hard-

ware>>Enable Shunt Calibration on the Control

Screen.

4. View the adjusted channel reading on the Monitor

Screen.

5. If the channel’s engineering unit is set to ue (mi-

crostrain), adjust the gage factor. If the engineering

units are user-defined, adjust the full-scale in milli-

volts/volt setting. Click the Apply button to see the

changes reflected in the channel reading on the

main screen.

6. Loop through steps 4 and 5 until the desired reading

is obtained.

7. Unselect Hardware>>Enable Shunt Calibration on

the Control Screen.

System Calibration Software 6.17.2

To calibrate a P3, first stop the channel readings by unselecting

Hardware>>Real Time Display on the Control Screen. Then

select Hardware>>Calibrate on the Control Screen and select

the serial number of the P3 to be calibrated.

Note: Performing an improper calibration may render your P3

inoperable.

Required Instruments 6.17.3

The calibration process requires a Micro-Measurements Model

1550A Strain Indicator Calibrator, or another device with

equivalent features and specifications. The P3 is a ratiometric

measuring device, so measurement is not affected by fluctua-

tions in the excitation voltage. It is therefore important to use a


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Wheatstone Bridge–based calibrator. Other sources, such as a

precision voltage reference, are not suitable for calibration pur-

poses. This section assumes that you are using a Model

1550A.

The system calibration process takes four measurements on

each channel: zero, positive and negative full scale, and amp

zero. After the measurements are taken, calibration values for

amplifier zero and software gain are stored in the internal flash

memory.

Following are the steps involved in performing a system cali-

bration. These steps must be performed in the order shown and

all channels must be calibrated. To abort the process after be-

ginning calibration, select the Abort Calibration button and

power-cycle the P3. To abort before beginning calibration, se-

lect Exit Calibration.

Note: Each time Take Reading is selected, in-process and com-

pletion messages are displayed in the status bar at the bottom

left of the screen.

Step 1: Get previous calibration values (optional)

Before calibrating the system, you may want to report the last

calibration date and the previous (on-card) calibration settings

for each channel. Select the Get Previous Cal Values button to

retrieve the data from the P3. Enter any desired text into the

Additional Report Data text box; this text will be included in

saved/printed calibration reports.


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To save and print a calibration report, select the Save Previous

Cal Values button. When the Save As window displays. navi-

gate to the desired location in which to save the file. Retain the

default file name or change as desired.

The default file name for the calibration report, whether created

before or after calibration, is as follows: SSSSSS_YYYY_MM_DD_M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt where:

SSSSSS is the serial number of the P3, YYYY_MM_DD is the date, and M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt is the terminator.

When Save is clicked, your default text file viewer, e.g., MS

Notepad, will be launched, displaying the calibration values.

The file may be printed using the viewer.


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Step 2: Calibrate each channel

All of step 2 must be repeated for each of the four channels on

the P3. The channels may be calibrated in any order, but steps

2A through 2E must be performed sequentially. Begin by se-

lecting a channel (1 through 4) from the drop-down list.

Step 2A: Install calibrator on selected channel

Configure the Model 1550A Strain Indicator Calibrator as a

full-bridge circuit and install on the selected channel. See

Figure 9 for connection details.


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Step 2B: Take a zero reading

Set the 1550A calibrator to 0 µε, positive polarity and click

the Take Zero Reading button.

Step 2C: Take a positive, full-scale reading

Set the 1550A calibrator to +30,000 µε (positive polarity)

and click the Take Reading button.

Step 2D: Take a negative, full-scale reading

Set the 1550A calibrator to -30,000 µε (negative polarity)

and the click the Take Reading button.

Step 2E: Take an amp zero reading

Finally, the system needs to establish a true electrical zero

(amp zero). Set the 1550A calibrator to 0 µε, positive po-

larity, short the S+ and S- terminals on the 1550A calibra-

tor and click the Take Reading button below step 2E. Val-

ues will appear in the Amp Zero and Gain indicator fields.

Note: After the first channel has been completed, the Abort

Calibration is available.

Step 3: Finish the system calibration process

After measurements for all four channels have been taken, se-

lect the Finish Calibration button to complete the system cali-

bration process.


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When the calibration process is complete, “Calibration Com-

plete” displays in the status bar at the bottom of the screen.

The system will store the new calibration values in the P3s in-

ternal flash memory, along with the calibration date.

Step 4: Retrieve the new calibration data and date (option-

al)

After calibration, you may view, save and print the new cali-

bration date and calibration settings. To view the data, select

the Get Current Cal button.


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To save and print a calibration report, select the Save Current

Cal Values button. When the Save As window displays, navi-

gate to the desired location in which to save the file. Retain the

default file name or change as desired. The default file name

for the calibration report is as follows:

SSSSSS_YYYY_MM_DD_M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt, where:

SSSSSS is the serial number of the P3, YYYY_MM_DD is the date, and M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt is the terminator.

When Save is clicked, your default text file viewer, e.g., MS

Notepad, will be launched, displaying the calibration report.

Both the previous and current calibration data will be included.

The file may be printed using the viewer.

Click the Exit Calibration button to end the calibration process.


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6.18 Program Messages Program status and informational messages may be displayed

by selecting the File>>Show Activity Log menu item. Mes-

sages are added to this log only when it is opened.

6.19 Upgrading Firmware Note: Before upgrading, disable the real-time display. Go to

Hardware>>Real Time Display and unselect it if it is checked.

To upgrade to a newer version of firmware on the P3, select

Hardware>>Update Firmware on the menu. Select the serial

number of the P3 to receive the update. (Recording and dis-

plays will be halted when selection is made.)

A file browser appears that lets you select the firmware up-

grade file. By default this file is named “158000056_P3.hex”.


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Typically you will navigate to the latest file provided by Mi-

cro-Measurements. After you select OK, a confirmation

prompt will appear showing the current firmware version of the

P3 and the version that you are attempting to install. If the ver-

sions are correct, select OK to continue. A progress bar will

display to track the upgrade.

While the upgrade is occurring, do not touch the P3 hardware

or the software application. You will be requested to power-

cycle the P3 and restart the application when the upgrade is

complete.

If you need to upgrade several P3’s, it is okay to choose Restart

Later. That way you only need to restart the application once

after you have upgraded all of the P3s. However, power-cycle

the P3 immediately. Note: You will be unable to communicate

with the P3 until the application has been restarted.


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WARRANTY

Vishay Measurements Group, Inc., warrants all instruments it manufactures to be free from defect in materials and factory

workmanship, and agrees to repair or replace any instrument that fails to perform as specified within three years after date of

shipment. Coverage of computers, cameras, rechargeable batteries, and similar items, sold in conjunction with equipment

manufactured by Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. and bearing the identifying name of another company, is limited under this

warranty to one year after the date of shipment. The warranty on no rechargeable batteries and similar consumable items is

limited to the delivery of goods free from defects in materials and factory workmanship. This warranty shall not apply to any

instrument that has been:

i) repaired, worked on or altered by persons unauthorized by the Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. in such

a manner as to injure, in our sole judgment, the performance, stability, or reliability of the instrument;

ii) subjected to misuse, negligence, or accident; or

iii) connected, installed, adjusted, or used otherwise than in accordance with the instructions furnished by us.

At no charge, we will repair, at our plant, or an authorized repair station, or at our option, replace any of our products found to

be defective under this warranty.

This warranty is in lieu of any other warranties, expressed or implied, including any implied warranties of merchantabil-

ity or fitness for a particular purpose. There are no warranties which extend beyond the description on the face hereof.

Purchaser acknowledges that all goods purchased from Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. are purchased as is, and

buyer states that no salesman, agent, employee or other person has made any such representations or warranties or

otherwise assumed for Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. any liability in connection with the sale of any goods to the

purchaser. Buyer hereby waives all rights buyer may have arising out of any breach of contract or breach of warranty

on the part of Vishay Measurements Group, Inc., to any incidental or consequential damages, including but not limited

to damages to property, damages for injury to the person, damages for loss of use, loss of time, loss of profits or income,

or loss resulting from personal injury.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages for consumer products, so the above

limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.

The Purchaser agrees that the Purchaser is responsible for notifying any subsequent buyer of goods manufactured by Vishay

Measurements Group, Inc. of the warranty provisions, limitations, exclusions and disclaimers stated herein, prior to the time any

such goods are purchased by such buyer, and the Purchaser hereby agrees to indemnify and hold Vishay Measurements Group,

Inc. harmless from any claim asserted against or liability imposed on Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. occasioned by the

failure of the Purchaser to so notify such buyer. This provision is not intended to afford subsequent purchasers any warranties or

rights not expressly granted to such subsequent purchasers under the law.

Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. reserves the right to make any changes in the design or construction of its instruments at any

time, without incurring any obligation to make any change whatever in units previously delivered. Micro-Measurement’s sole

liabilities, and buyer’s sole remedies, under this agreement shall be limited to the purchase price, or at our sole discretion, to the

repair or replacement of any instrument that proves, upon examination, to be defective, when returned to our factory, transporta-

tion prepaid by the buyer, within the applicable period of time from the date of original shipment.

Return transportation charges of repaired or replacement instruments under warranty will be prepaid by Vishay Measurements

Group, Inc..

Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. is solely a manufacturer and assumes no responsibility of any form for the accuracy or

adequacy of any test results, data, or conclusions which may result from the use of its equipment.

The manner in which the equipment is employed and the use to which the data and test results may be put are completely in the

hands of the Purchaser. Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. shall in no way be liable for damages consequential or incidental to

defects in any of its products.

This warranty constitutes the full understanding between the manufacturer and buyer, and no terms, conditions, understanding,

or agreement purporting to modify or vary the terms hereof shall be binding unless hereafter made in writing and signed by an

authorized official of Vishay Measurements Group, Inc..

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P3 Instruction Manual

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