Portable Instrumentation for Diverse Test and Measurement Applications
- Interface Inc.
- Apr 16
- 4 min read
In the dynamic landscape of test and measurement, the ability to conduct precise product testing extends beyond the confines of traditional laboratories. Field testing scenarios necessitate flexible and robust instrumentation.
Interface offers a comprehensive suite of portable instrumentation devices that are engineered to pair with our catalog of sensors, empowering users to leverage Interface's high-performance measurement capabilities wherever their application demands.
Portable Sensor Displays for On-the-Go Analysis
Among Interface's flagship portable instruments is the 9330 High-Speed Data Logging Indicator. This battery-powered device integrates a bipolar display, data logging functionality, and precision amplification. It features integrated bridge completion for common strain gauge resistances (120 Ω, 350 Ω, and 1000 Ω) and accommodates active sensors with 0-10V output signals. The 9330 boasts a high sampling rate of up to 3750 Hz and can store calibrations for up to six distinct sensors, facilitating versatile portable or benchtop test setups. Data acquisition can be performed directly to an SD card at rates up to 1000 Hz or streamed directly to a computer for in-depth analysis.
The 9325 Portable Sensor Display offers a streamlined solution for displaying measurements from strain bridge-based transducers, including load cells and torque transducers with sensitivities up to ±1 V/V. It supports up to six calibration ranges, accommodating various tension and compression loading scenarios or multiple sensors. Each calibration range retains user-defined settings such as units and tare values, enhancing operational efficiency. While comprehensive configuration is achievable via a PC-based toolkit, essential adjustments like two-point calibration can be performed directly through the handheld interface. The 9325NU Portable Sensor Display provides the same core functionality without the USB connectivity option.
Advanced Portable Data Logging Solutions
For multi-channel data acquisition in portable environments, Interface offers advanced Bluetooth-enabled data loggers, including:
These devices enable users to conduct comprehensive force measurement tests and record data remotely, expanding the possibilities for field-based analysis.
Portable Wireless Telemetry Systems Instruments for Enhanced Flexibility
Interface's Wireless Telemetry System product line provides exceptional portability and convenience. The WTS-BS-1-HS Wireless Handheld Display for Single Transmitters allows operators to monitor individual transmitter modules within a WTS network. The data transmitted can be received by various devices, including displays, handheld readers, analog outputs, relay modules, and computer interfaces. Receivers are designed for industrial power supplies and feature robust IP-rated enclosures with optimized internal antennas for reliable coverage. The WTS lineup also includes the WTS-BS-1 Wireless Handheld Display For Unlimited Transmitters and the WTS-BS-1-HA Wireless Handheld Display for Multiple Transmitters., catering to diverse application needs.
Test and Measurement Applications Across Industries Using Portable Instrumentation
Interface's portable instrumentation solutions are instrumental in various industrial applications.
Surgical Instrument Evaluation
The 9330 High-Speed Data Logging Indicator paired with an LBS Load Cell enabled the precise measurement of clamping forces generated by different vascular clamps, aiding in selecting optimal instruments for surgical procedures. Here's a video: https://youtu.be/SUYMmtm5RfY
In spacecraft docking simulations, multiple WTS 1200 Standard Precision LowProfile™ Wireless Load Cells integrated with WTS-AM-1E Wireless Strain Bridge Transmitter Modules and a WTS-BS-1 Handheld Display allowed for the accurate measurement and logging of actuator forces during the critical "lunge" phase, ensuring operational parameters and overload limits were maintained. Check out the spacecraft docking simulator application note.
Inventory Management
For real-time, weight-based inventory management, MBI Overload Protected Miniature Beam Load Cells installed under inventory shelves, connected via A JB104SS 4-Channel Stainless Steel Junction Box is connected to each load cell and to a WTS-AM-1E that wirelessly transmits the sum weight to the WTS-BS-1-HA Wireless Handheld Display for multiple transmitters. This system provided real-time weight data, improving inventory accuracy and reducing operational costs. Here's a video: https://youtu.be/f672o-6Jf-g
Crane Safety Monitoring
Jib cranes are used to move or carry heavy loads, as it is attached to a vertical mast or strong support structure. A tension monitoring system is needed to ensure the lifted loads do not exceed the jib crane’s capacity. Interface’s WTSATL-JR Aluminum Compact Wireless Tension Link can be attached to the cable of the jib crane. When a heavy load is placed at the end of the jib crane, the force results are wirelessly transmitted to the WTS-BS-1-HS Wireless Handheld Display for Single Transmitters. Using this solution, the customer could monitor the cable tension forces of the jib crane to ensure it did not reach its maximum capacity.
Offshore Mooring System Analysis
In catenary mooring systems, specialized submersible ISHK-B Bow Type Crosby™ Cabled Load Shackles were attached to the main node to measure the tension forces exerted by anchors and chains. The data was displayed, logged, and analyzed using the 9325NU Portable Sensor Display with accompanying PC software, verifying the structural integrity of the mooring system.
Interface's commitment to providing portable force monitoring solutions empowers engineers and technicians to conduct critical tests with precision and efficiency, regardless of the testing environment. Utilizing Interface portable displays represents a key component of comprehensive portable force measurement systems designed to meet the evolving demands of modern industries.
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