Low profile sensors measure loads cheaply

A family of integrated capacitive low profile, load sensors measure loads (weights) easily and at more than half the cost of currently available weighing products.

Loadstar Sensors of Sunnyvale, California, USA, introduces the M870 family of integrated capacitive low profile, load sensors to measure loads (weights) easily and at more than half the cost of currently available solutions.

Users need only supply a 5V DC input to the sensor and can read a 0 to 5V DC output with a voltmeter or feed it into commonly used data acquisition or control systems.

Based on patented capacitive force sensing technology, the M870 series of load sensors offer high sensitivities in a mechanically robust package (2in X 2in X 0.4in max) and come in 10 lb, 50 lb and 250 lb capacities.

These sensors can be further customized for ranges lower than 10 lb or higher than 250 lb upon request from customers.

Conventional load cells are based on resistive strain gauge technology whose typical full scale output is only 20-30mV.

This necessitates using good signal conditioning equipment to resolve microvolt range changes and drives up the cost.

In comparison, the M870 series of capacitive sensors offer between 2000 and 4000mV of output change from baseline to full load with a noise of only +/-2mV, enabling 0.1% sensitivity and 1% accuracy (including hysteresis, temperature effects and non-linearity).

The high output signal strength in a small package without need for any external electronics at an attractive price makes it feasible to include load sensors in a wide range of applications.

Sensors with even tighter specifications are available upon request.

"The new sensor technology combines the best of three disciplines: mechanical durability; sensitivity; and integrated electronics".

"We eliminate the need for external signal conditioning equipment and greatly simplify the process of measuring loads at a fraction of the cost of other load cells.

says Bill Dallenbach, Founder of Loadstar Sensors.

Some of the key features of M870 Capacitive Sensors are: * Standard sensors available in 10 lb, 50 lb and 250 lb capacities.

* Input 5V; Output: Variable DC in 0 to 5V range with at least 2000mV change for full scale loading.

* Integrated sensor with electronics - no need for signal conditioning box.

* Draws only 0.01 microW, enabling portable battery-powered applications.

* Rugged design; contains no delicate bonded foils or calibrated levers and withstand 200% overloads.

About Loadstar Sensors - established in 2004, Loadstar Sensors, located in Sunnyvale, California, USA, is a leader in the design and manufacture of capacitive sensors for automotive, aerospace, medical device and industrial applications.

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