Zeroing Sensors


    Between tests, the load cell output will usually drift a small amount.  At best, the no-load condition will be in the range of ±0.025% of load cell full capacity, which translates to about ±0.001 kN (±0.25 lb) for a 4.45 kN (1000 lb) load cell.  If you observe a no-load condition on the System Monitor window that is greater than ±0.025% of full capacity, use the following steps to zero the load cell.


  1.     Be sure the load cell is not in contact with anything.
  2.     Bring down the Calibrate menu and select Summary to open the Calibration Summary window.  Position this window beside the System Monitor window.
  3.     Note the Load reading in counts on the System Monitor window (top left text field).
  4.     Replace the Offset value that is shown on the Calibration Summary window (when Load is selected for the Channel choice) with the Load reading (in counts) that is on the System Monitor window.
  5.     Click the Apply button, the Download button and then the Ok button to close the Calibration Summary window.
  6.     You should now see in the System Monitor window that the vertical load cell reading (in engineering units) is within ±0.025% of full capacity.


*Note: Steps 2-6 of this re-zeroing process can be applied to any other sensor once it has been physically set at the “zero” condition.