July 3, 2007

2 Min Read
Sensors Can Be Plugged Directly Into USB Port

Originally Published MPMN July/August 2007

BREAKTHROUGHS

Sensors Can Be Plugged Directly Into USB Port

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Award-winning sensors enable users to measure loads, forces, or weights without the need for any additional signal conditioning, data acquisition, or special software.

A capacitive sensing technology integrates signal processing and communications in a single package. The iLoad Digital USB sensors are the world’s first capacitive load sensors with USB output, according to their maker, Loadstar Sensors Inc. The sensors can be plugged directly into the USB port of a PC and enable users to measure loads, forces, or weights without the need for any additional signal conditioning, data acquisition, or special software.

Because of this, Frost & Sullivan has given its 2007 North American Product Innovation of the Year award to the sensors. “By integrating sensing, signal processing, and communications in a single package, Loadstar’s sensors can significantly reduce the complexity of designing and incorporating such sensors into computerized measurement and control applications,” says Peter Adrian, of Frost & Sullivan.

The sensors are available in 10, 50, 100, 250, and 500-lb capacities to measure both compressive and tensile loads. They offer accuracies of 0.25 to 0.025% of full-scale loads. Higher capacities up to 15,000 lb are expected to be released in the coming months, but are available earlier as a special order. Temperature compensation schemes are built in for temperatures ranging between –10° and 40°F in order to be accurate in most operating conditions with a tare.

Other features include flexible output options, including digital USB or analog 0–5 V dc; a rugged low-profile stainless-steel package; and easy mounting ability.

Loadstar Sensors Inc., Mountain View, CA
www.loadstarsensors.com

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