Digitally Programmable Amplifier

At FUTEK, their engineers are dedicated to being on the forefront of technology. They also understand the importance of developing high quality sensors and instruments that seamlessly fit into their customer’s applications. They're excited to announce their latest product: the IDA100 Digitally Configurable Strain Gauge Amplifier.

The IDA100 is a one of a kind amplifier that provides both analogue and digital output via USB. The Analogue output can be used to send information directly to a PLC while the USB output can be used to simultaneously verify that the system is functioning correctly.

Manual adjustments can cause unnecessary interruptions. The IDA100 eliminates the need for manual adjustment via dip switches and potentiometers. So micro adjustments and calibrations can all be done electronically. 

If you like further information on any of the Futek  IDA 100 Digital Strain Gauge Amplifier and reside in Australia or New Zealand, please contact Metromatics on +61 7 3868 4255 or sales@metromatics.com.au  

For outside this area, contact FUTEK directly on +949 465 0900

Futek Demonstrates using LEGO

Futek demonstrates three load cell applications using LEGO®!

You read that right. For the MD&M West trade show this year, Futek decided to have some interactive applications at their booth; and instead of using aluminum or stainless steel, they constructed them entirely out of LEGO bricks!

In this three part video, the first application is an infusion pump/syringe test stand. Futek has attached a motor to a crank that creates a pushing/pulling motion. This motion is applied to the plunger of the syringe, which allows it to take in and push out water (or any other fluid). In line, between the plunger and the crank, is an LSB200 Miniature S-Beam Load Cell that measures the force exerted onto the plunger. 

The next application features Futek's LCM100 Miniature In-Line Load Cell in a pulley system to measure the tension created from the crane's payload. The tensile force will be immediately visible on Futeks IHH500 Handheld Display.

And lastly, what you are seeing here is a marble loaded onto a ramp and rolling down onto a sensing platform. The sensing platform has the LLB130 Miniature Load Button centered underneath, which measures the weight of the marble as it is loaded onto it. The load cell outputs a value (mV/V), which is amplified by the IDA100 Digital Amplifier (VDC), and then fed into the Arduino. The Arduino makes the decision if the marble is classified as "heavy" or "light". Once the distinction is made, it sends a command to the LEGO motor to sort the marble into the appropriate bin.

But seeing is believing. So take a look at these videos!