MTS Clip-On Gages - Manual (Page 33)

Operation 33
Operation
Operation of any clip-on gage consists of zeroing the sensor output after
it has been attached to a specimen. It is also good practice to establish
sensor limits for the clip-on gage.
Prerequisite
Before operating the clip-on gage, the signal from the clip-on gage must
be calibrated. The clip-on gage must also already be attached to a
specimen and connected to a controller.
About Sensor Zero
The purpose of zeroing the sensor output is to identify the starting
position of the transducer to the system controller. A transducer usually
needs to be zeroed (or at least checked) after it has been installed.
For example, suppose the transducer is installed and it is not at its
calibrated zero position. The controller can be programmed to accept
the current output from the transducer as the zero output.
See your controller manual for information to establish the transducer
zero output signal. The electrical output of the transducer is adjusted so
that zero strain equals zero volts output.
About Sensor Limits
Sensor limits help protect a clip-on gage by establishing an operating
range within capacity of the transducer. Each clip-on gage has a travel
specification which can be used to define the operating range of the clip-
on gage. Refer to the drawings that came with the clip-on gage.
See your controller manual for information to establish the sensor
limits. The electrical output of the transducer is monitored by the
controller and can stop the test should the transducer exceed a defined
limit.