Datasheet

P3
Vishay Micro-Measurements
www.vishaymg.com [e-mail] Document Number: 11102
6 Revision: 24-Aug-06
Strain Indicator and Recorder
FEATURES
• Four input channels
• Direct reading LCD display
• On-board data storage
• 0 to 2.5Vdc analog output
• Quarter, half and full bridge circuits
• Built-in bridge completion
• 120-, 350- and 1000-ohm dummy gages
• Automatic zero-balancing and calibration
• Intuitive, menu-driven operations
• USB data link
• Operation from keypad or PC
• Portable, lightweight and rugged
• Battery, USB or line-voltage power
DESCRIPTION
The Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder is a portable,
battery-operated instrument capable of simultaneously
accepting four inputs from quarter-, half-, and full-bridge
strain-gage circuits, including strain-gage-based trans-
ducers. Water-resistant grommets in the hinged cover allow
the lid to be closed with leadwires attached. Designed for use
in a wide variety of physical test and measurement
applications, the P3 functions as bridge amplifier, static
strain indicator, and digital data logger.
The Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder, utilizing a large
LCD display for readout of setup information and acquired
data, incorporates many unique operating features that
make it the most advanced instrument of its kind. An
extensive, easy-to-use menu-driven user interface operates
through a front-panel keypad to readily configure the P3 to
meet your particular measurement requirements. Selections
include active input and output channels, bridge
configuration, measurement units, bridge balance,
calibration method, and recording options, among others.
Data, recorded at a user-selectable rate of up to 1 reading
per channel per second, is stored on a removable multimedia
card and is transferred by USB to a host computer for
subsequent storage, reduction and presentation with
third-party software.
The P3 can also be configured and operated directly from
your PC with a separate software application included with
each instrument. Additionally, a full set of ActiveX
components is provided for creating custom applications in
any language supporting ActiveX.
A highly stable measurement circuit, regulated bridge
excitation supply, and precisely settable gage factor enable
measurements of ±0.1% accuracy and 1 microstrain
resolution. Bridge completion resistors of 120, 350 and 1000
ohms are built in for quarter-bridge operation. Also, input
connections and switches are provided for remote shunt
calibration of transducers and full-bridge circuits.
The P3 operates from an internal battery pack of two readily
available D cells. Battery life depends upon mode of
operation but ranges up to 600 hours of continuous use for a
single channel. It can also be powered by connection to an
external battery or power supply, a USB port on a PC or with
an optional external line-voltage adapter.