P3 Instruction Manual

Model P3
Strain Indicator
And Recorder
Instruction Manual
Micro-Measurements
Division of Vishay Precision Group
P.O. Box 27777

Raleigh, NC 27611
USA
Telephone: (919) 365-3800

Facsimile: (919) 365-3945
[email protected]
January 2013 130-000109

Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder
Instruction Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................ II
1 DESCRIPTION ................................................................ 2
1.1 GENERAL ................................................................. 2
1.2 FUNCTIONAL FEATURES ..................................... 3
2 SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................... 4
2.1 INPUT CONNECTIONS .................................................. 4
2.2 BRIDGE CONFIGURATIONS .......................................... 4
2.3 DISPLAY ...................................................................... 4
2.4 DATA CONVERSION..................................................... 5
2.5 MEASUREMENT RANGE/RESOLUTION ......................... 5
2.6 MEASUREMENT ACCURACY ........................................ 5
2.7 GAGE FACTOR CONTROL ............................................ 5
2.8 BALANCE CONTROL .................................................... 5
2.9 BRIDGE EXCITATION ................................................... 6
2.10 COMMUNICATION INTERFACE ..................................... 6
2.11 DATA STORAGE .......................................................... 6
2.12 SHUNT CALIBRATION .................................................. 6
2.13 ANALOG OUTPUT ........................................................ 7
2.14 POWER ........................................................................ 7
2.15 OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT .................................... 7
2.16 CASE ........................................................................... 7
2.17 SIZE & WEIGHT........................................................... 7
3 FRONT PANEL ............................................................... 8
3.1 USB INTERFACE ......................................................... 9
3.2 MEMORY CARD SLOT ................................................. 9
3.3 INPUT CONNECTORS .................................................. 10
3.4 LCD DISPLAY ........................................................... 10
3.5 KEYPAD .................................................................... 10
3.6 POWER CONNECTOR ................................................. 10
Instruction Manual
3.7 ANALOG OUTPUT CONNECTOR ................................. 10
4 OPERATION ................................................................. 11
4.1 GETTING STARTED .................................................... 11
4.2 POWER UP ................................................................. 11
4.3 INPUT CONNECTIONS ................................................ 12
4.3.1 Quarter Bridge Connections................................. 12
4.3.2 Half Bridge Connections ...................................... 13
4.3.3 Full Bridges and Transducers............................... 13
4.3.4 Transducer Input Connector Option..................... 15
4.4 OPERATIONAL MODES .............................................. 18
4.4.1 Run Mode Operation ............................................ 18
4.4.2 Command Mode Operation .................................. 23
4.5 MENU COMMANDS .................................................... 24
4.5.1 Main Menu ........................................................... 24
4.5.2 Select Channels Menu .......................................... 25
4.5.3 Bridge Type Menu ............................................... 26
4.5.4 Gage Factor/Scaling Menu ................................... 29
4.5.5 Recording Menu ................................................... 33
4.5.6 Balance Mode Menu ............................................ 35
4.5.7 Shunt Calibration Menu ....................................... 37
4.5.8 Options Menu ....................................................... 38
4.5.9 Display Options Menu ......................................... 39
4.5.10 Output Options Menu....................................... 41
4.5.11 Save Setup Option ............................................ 42
4.5.12 Clock Options .................................................. 42
4.5.13 Advanced Options Menu.................................. 44
4.5.14 Calibrate System .............................................. 44
4.5.15 Erase Memory Card ......................................... 48
4.5.16 Poisson’s Ratio ................................................. 49
4.5.17 Factory Defaults ............................................... 49
4.5.18 Version ............................................................. 49
5 BATTERY REPLACEMENT ...................................... 50
Instruction Manual
6 SOFTWARE OPERATION.......................................... 52
6.1 OVERVIEW ................................................................ 52
6.2 CONNECTING THE P3(S) TO THE PC........................... 52
6.3 APPLICATION STARTUP ............................................. 53
6.4 SCREEN MANAGEMENT ............................................. 54
6.5 CONTROL SCREEN ..................................................... 54
6.6 MONITOR SCREEN ..................................................... 54
6.6.1 Identify a P3 ......................................................... 55
6.6.2 Peak Values .......................................................... 55
6.7 CHANNEL CONFIGURATION ....................................... 57
6.7.1 Channel Name ...................................................... 58
6.7.2 Bridge Type.......................................................... 58
6.7.3 Number of Decimal Places to Display ................. 61
6.7.4 Scaling .................................................................. 61
6.7.5 Balance (Zero) ...................................................... 62
6.8 SAVING AND RECALLING SETTINGS (PC) .................. 64
6.9 SAVING SETTINGS TO THE P3 .................................... 64
6.10 CHANNEL READINGS ADJUSTMENTS ......................... 65
6.10.1 Reset (Set to Default) ....................................... 65
6.10.2 Excitation Output & Noise Rejection Settings 65
6.10.3 Format Offscale Value ..................................... 66
6.10.4 Poisson’s Ratio ................................................. 66
6.11 P3 DISPLAY OPTIONS ................................................ 67
6.12 P3 OUTPUT SETTINGS ............................................... 67
6.13 CHARTING ................................................................. 68
6.13.1 Charting Controls ............................................. 68
6.13.2 Charting Colors ................................................ 69
6.14 RECORDING TO THE PC ............................................. 69
6.14.1 Setting up the Data File .................................... 69
6.14.2 Data File Format .............................................. 70
6.15 RECORDING TO THE P3 .............................................. 72
6.16 READING DATA FROM THE P3 ................................... 73
6.17 CALIBRATION ............................................................ 74
Instruction Manual
6.17.1 Shunt Calibration ............................................. 74
6.17.2 System Calibration Software............................ 75
6.17.3 Required Instruments ....................................... 75
6.18 PROGRAM MESSAGES................................................ 82
6.19 UPGRADING FIRMWARE ............................................ 82
Instruction Manual
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Instruction Manual
1 DESCRIPTION
1.1 GENERAL
The Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder is a portable, bat-
tery powered precision instrument for use with resistive strain
gages and strain-gage-based transducers.
The Model P3 accepts full- half- and quarter-bridge inputs; all

required bridge completion components for 120-, 350-, and
1000-ohm bridges are supplied. The Model P3 utilizes tool-free
input connections, and is dust and moisture-resistant.
Operation of the Model P3 is straightforward and intuitive, us-

ing menu-driven commands, and can be controlled by either the
front panel keypad or remotely via a USB connection.
The Model P3 utilizes modern digital signal processing tech-

nology to provide excellent noise rejection and stability. Pro-
prietary scaling and linearization algorithms provide unsur-
passed measurement accuracy for strain gage bridge measure-
ments.
Data may be stored on industry-standard secure digital (SD) and

multimedia (MMC) cards or streamed to a PC using the on-
board USB interface.
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Instruction Manual
1.2 FUNCTIONAL FEATURES
The Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder has the fol-
lowing features:
 Four input channels.
 Direct-reading, backlit LCD display.
 Data storage using MMC/SD cards.
 Hardware and software support for quarter-, half-
and full-bridge circuits.
 Built-in precision bridge completion for 120-, 350-
and 1000-ohm half and quarter bridges.
 Automatic and manual zero-balance and calibration.
 Intuitive, menu-driven operations.
 Full control of all functions via USB Interface.
 Selectable analog output.
 Portable, lightweight and rugged design.
 Battery, USB, or line-voltage power.
 Intuitive, user-friendly software.
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Instruction Manual
2 SPECIFICATIONS
Note: Performance may be degraded at high levels of repetitive electrostatic
discharge; however, no damage to the unit will occur.
2.1 Input Connections

Type: Tool-free eccentric lever release
Quantity: Four
Wire size: 16 to 28 AWG [1.29 to 0.31mm Φ]
Transducer Connector Option: 10 pin bayonet locking
circular connectors are supplied wired parallel to the
terminal blocks. The supplied mating connector has a
.046 inch (1.17 mm) diameter. solder well.
2.2 Bridge Configurations
Types: Quarter-, half-, and full bridges
Bridge Impedance: 60 to 2000 Ω
Internal Bridge Completion:
Quarter bridge: 120Ω, 350Ω and 1000Ω ±0.01%
Half bridge: 1000Ω ±0.01%
2.3 Display
Type: 128 x 64 pixel FSTN positive, gray transflective
LCD with backlight
Update rate: 2 updates/second typ.
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Instruction Manual
2.4 Data Conversion

A/D Converter: Delta-sigma with integral chopper-
stabilized programmable gain instrumentation amplifier
Resolution: 24 bits. Noise-free resolution: 18 bits typ.
Analog output mode rate: 480 samples/sec.
Filter: Integrated linear phase FIR Sinc5 filter followed
by a Sinc3 filter with a programmable decimation rate.
Software selectable output rate provides >120 dB rejec-
tion of 50 or 60Hz and higher level harmonics.
2.5 Measurement Range/Resolution
Strain Range: ±31,000 με at GF = 2.000. (±15.5 mV/V)
Resolution: ±1 με at GF = 2.000 (±0.0005 mV/V)
2.6 Measurement Accuracy
±0.1% of reading ±3 counts. (Analog output disabled,
instrument Gage Factor = 2.000)
2.7 Gage Factor Control
Range: 0.500 to 9.900
2.8 Balance Control
Type: Software
Control: Manual or automatic
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Instruction Manual
2.9 Bridge Excitation

Value: 1.5 VDC nominal
Control: Software enable/disable
Measurements are fully ratiometric, and not degraded by
variations in excitation voltage
2.10 Communication Interface
Universal serial bus (USB). Cable included
2.11 Data Storage
Type: Removable MMC/SD (supplied).
Size: 2GB maximum
Recording rate: Software-selectable from 1 reading per
second to 1 reading per hour
2.12 Shunt Calibration
Location: Across bridge completion resistors
Control: Software
Values:
P- to D120: 11.94KΩ ±0.1% (5000με at GF = 2.00)
P- to D350: 34.8KΩ ±0.1% (5000με at GF = 2.00)
P- to D1000: 99.5KΩ ±0.1% (5000με at GF = 2.00)
Remote calibration: Switch contacts at input terminal
block
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Instruction Manual
2.13 Analog Output

Value: 0 to 2.5V nominal
Ranges: ±310 με, ±3100 με, ±31000 με
(±1.183V change)
Typical error: 0.5% of full-scale voltage
Maximum error: 1.4% of full-scale voltage
Update rate: 480 samples/sec
Output Load: 2000Ω
Connector: BNC
2.14 Power
Battery: Two Alkaline "D" cells
Battery life: 400 hours typ.
AC Adapter: 6-15VDC 100mA
USB: 5V 100mA
2.15 Operational Environment
Temperature: 0° to +50°C
Humidity: Up to 90% RH. Non-condensing
2.16 Case
Material: Aluminum
Accessories: Two rubber grommets installed in the lid
allow leadwires to enter the case with the lid closed for
increased resistance to water splash
2.17 Size & Weight
Size: 9 x 6 x 6 in (228 x 152 x 152 mm)
Weight: 4.4 lb (2.0 kg), including batteries
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Instruction Manual
3 FRONT PANEL
USB Memory Input
Interface Card Slot Terminals
LCD Keypad Power Analog

Display Connector Output
Connector
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Instruction Manual
3.1 USB Interface

The USB interface is the communication channel between the
P3 and a host PC. All front panel controls (except the system
calibration option) are accessible via the USB interface.
When connected, the PC (running Windows 98, 2000, or XP)

will identify the Model P3 as a standard USB Human Interface
Device, therefore, no special device drivers are required to
communicate with the device.
The Model P3 is supplied with user-friendly Windows-based

application software which provides complete control of the
Model P3.
In addition, an ActiveX control is supplied to simplify the de-

velopment of user-defined applications.
The Model P3 can also operate as a stand-alone system, without

being connected to the USB interface. In the stand alone con-
figuration, all functions are controlled by the keypad.
3.2 Memory Card Slot

The memory card slot accommodates industry-standard multi-
media (MMC) and Secure Digital (SD) cards. Data can be rec-
orded to the MMC by selecting the appropriate recording op-
tions. The multimedia card supports FAT16 or FAT12-
formatted cards, such as the one supplied with the unit. SD
cards up to 2GB are supported
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Instruction Manual
Recorded can be either uploaded to a PC using the on-board

USB interface and the supplied software, or by using an indus-
try standard Card reader.
3.3 Input Connectors
The input connectors connect the strain gage or transducer to
the Model P3. To attach a wire to the input connector, simply
lift the eccentric lever, insert the wire into the terminal opening,
and lower the eccentric lever.
Note: You should always tin stranded wires before insertion

into the input connector
3.4 LCD Display

The LCD display provides the visual interface to control, setup,
and monitor the P3.
3.5 Keypad
The keypad is a membrane-switch type. Functionality of the
keys is described in the Operation section.
3.6 Power Connector
The power jack accepts a 6 to 15V DC source (0.1A max).
3.7 Analog Output Connector
The analog output jack provides a 0-2.5 volt output signal that
corresponds to the displayed value. The output range is user-
selectable.
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Instruction Manual
4 OPERATION
4.1 Getting Started
The Model P3 is designed for ease of use. This section de-
scribes the operation of the Model P3 Strain Indicator and Re-
corder.
4.2 Power Up
The Model P3 is ready to use as received. The unit is shipped
with two D cells pre-installed.
The Model P3 has three sources of power: Battery, USB or AC

adapter. If more than one power supply is present, the power
source is determined in the following order: (1) USB, (2) AC
Adaptor, and (3) battery. If the Model P3 is using USB or the
AC adaptor, the system will always remain on as long as power
is supplied. If the Model P3 is using the USB or AC adapter as
the power source, an "x" is displayed on the lower right corner
of the LCD display, indicating the unit is running on external
power. If the system is running on battery power, the ‘x’ is re-
placed by a battery strength indicator.
If no external supply is detected, the system must be turned on

by pressing the Power key, .
When the unit is powered up, the firmware is loaded into the
DSP. During this time an audible beep will be heard, indicating
the unit is booting. After approximately two seconds, the beep
tone will cease, unit will display the opening screen.
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Instruction Manual
4.3 Input Connections

Strain gages and strain gage-based transducers are connected to
the P3 through the input terminals. The P3 can accommodate up
to four input channels, labeled 1 through 4. To connect the
leadwire to the input terminal, lift the black arm of the desired
terminal, insert the leadwire all the way into the terminal, and
carefully lower the arm to clamp the wire to the terminal. Con-
nections can be made whether the unit is on or off. For connec-
tion information to the optional transducer connectors, see the
Transducer Input Connector Option section
4.3.1 Quarter Bridge Connections

The following configuration illustrates the connections for mak-
ing a three-wire quarter bridge connection:
P+ S- D D D P- S+
120 350 1K
Select the dummy terminal (D120, D350, or D1K) to correspond

with the nominal resistance of the strain gage.
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Instruction Manual
4.3.2 Half Bridge Connections

The following figure illustrates the connections for making a
three-wire half-bridge connection.
P+ S- D D D P- S+
120 350 1K
T C
4.3.3 Full Bridges and Transducers

The following figure illustrates the connections for making a
full-bridge connection:
P+ S- D D D P- S+
120 350 1K
C T
T C
E XT E RN A L CA L C IR C UIT
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Instruction Manual
In addition to bridge wiring, a switch closure is provided for an

external shunt calibration resistor. This feature will normally be
used to implement shunt calibration of the transducer according
to the transducer manufacturer’s recommendation.
The transducer manufacturer will generally specify exactly how

a specific value of shunt calibration resistor is to be connected.
In some cases, the manufacturer may also supply leadwires, in-
tegral to the transducer assembly, which are used for this pur-
pose. In any case, the transducer manufacturer’s recommenda-
tions should be followed.
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Instruction Manual
4.3.4 Transducer Input Connector Option
Model P3 with Transducer Connectors
The input connectors connect the strain gage or transducer to

the Model P3. To attach a wire to the input connector, simply
lift the eccentric lever, insert the wire into the terminal opening,
and lower the eccentric lever. Additionally, 10 pin bayonet
locking circular connectors are supplied wired parallel to the
front panel terminal blocks. The supplied mating connector has
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Instruction Manual
a .046 inch (1.17 mm) diameter solder well. Each channel uses
a separate (and interchangeable) input plug. Four loose plugs
are supplied with each P3 (one per channel). Wiring connec-
tions are defined as follows:
Symbol Function Pin

P+ Excitation Positive B
P- Excitation Negative C
S+ Positive Signal Input D
S- Negative Signal Input A
D120 120 ohm Dummy Resistor J
D350 350 ohm Dummy Resistor K
D1K 1000 ohm Dummy Resistor E
Rcal1 Rcal Switch Terminal 1 G
Rcal2 Rcal Switch Terminal 2 H
GND Common Reference F
Transducer Input Plug Pin Wiring Connections
If additional plugs are desired, they are available from Micro-

Measurements or through electronic parts distributors.
Micro-Measurements 12X300515
ITT/Cannon KPT06B12-10P
Amphenol PT06A-12-10P(SR)
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Instruction Manual
The P3 uses the same transducer connector as the Model P3500.

The following chart shows the wiring differences between the
Model P3 and the Model P3500.
Symbol Function P3 P3500

P+ Excitation Positive B B
RS+ Remote Sense Positive J
P- Excitation Negative C C
RS+ Remote Sense Negative K
S+ Positive Signal Input D D
S- Negative Signal Input A A
D120 120 ohm Dummy Resistor J
D350 350 ohm Dummy Resistor K
D1K 1000 ohm Dummy Resistor E
Rcal1 Rcal Switch Terminal 1 G G
Rcal2 Rcal Switch Terminal 2 H H
GND Common Reference F F
Model P3/Model 3500 Transducer Input Plug Pin Wiring Comparison
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Instruction Manual
4.4 Operational Modes

The Model P3 has two operational modes: the run mode and the
command mode.
4.4.1 Run Mode Operation

In the run mode, the display is divided into four quadrants (one
for each channel), along with a status line on the bottom of the
display.
Ch1 με Ch2 με
+01000 +00216
Ch3 με Ch4 με
+00524 +00914
REC OFF CAL OFF
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Instruction Manual
4.4.1.1 Display Pause

While in the run mode, the display can be paused (for example,
to make a handwritten record of the current data). To pause the
display, press the key.
Ch1 με Ch2 με
+01000 +00216
Paused ->Resume
Ch3 με Ch4 με
+00524 +00914
REC OFF CAL OFF
Note: While in the pause mode, recording to the MMC is also

suspended. To resume to normal operation, press the key.
4.4.1.2 Peak Read

In addition, the Model P3 can be used as a peak hold indicator.
The peak hold function is accessed by using the and arrow

keys.
Pressing the key will update the display if a value larger than
the currently displayed value is measured.
Ch1 με Ch2 με
+01000 +00216
Max Peak ↑=Reset
Ch3 με Ch4 με
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Instruction Manual
+00524 +00914
REC OFF CAL OFF
To reset the peak display, press the . To return to the normal

MENU
(tracking) mode, press .
Pressing the key will update the display if a value smaller

than the currently displayed value is measured.
Ch1 με Ch2 με
+01000 +00216
Min Peak ↓=Reset
Ch3 με Ch4 με
+00524 +00914
REC OFF CAL OFF
To reset the peak display, press the key. To return to the

MENU
normal (tracking) mode, press .
4.4.1.3 Shunt Calibration

The shunt calibration switch may be toggled while in the run
mode by pressing the cal key. When activated, a precision
shunt resistor is placed between the P- and the appropriate
dummy (Dxxx) resistor, additionally, the Remote Cal switch
closed. The internal shunt calibration resistors simulate an
equivalent strain of 5000 microstrain at a gage factor of 2.000.
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Instruction Manual
The lower right of the screen indicates whether the calibration
switch is active (CAL ON) or inactive (CAL OFF).
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Instruction Manual
4.4.1.4 Auto Balance

If any active channels are configured to use the auto balance
mode, pressing the BAL key will initiate the auto balance
sequence. The auto balance sequence requires confirmation to
avoid unintentional rebalance of the signal.
Ready to Auto Balance

[BAL] = Balance
[MENU] = Cancel
To start the auto-balance sequence, press the BAL key. To

MENU
cancel, press the key. Once the balance sequence is com-
pleted, the user is given the option to save the settings to the
flash memory. To save the settings, press the key. In addi-
tion to saving the newly acquired balance readings, all setup
information is saved (identical to the “Options|Save Setup”
MENU
function). Press the key to continue without saving the set-
tings.
Save Settings?
[REC] = Save
[MENU] = Don’t save
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Instruction Manual
4.4.1.5 Manual Recording

If the recording mode is selected as "Manual" recording, press-
ing the Record key will transfer the current readings to the
Multimedia card.
Ch1 με Ch2 με
+01000 +00216
Ch3 με Ch4 με
+00524 +00914
MAN REC 1 CAL OFF
The total number of records in the currently open file will be

indicated next to the MAN REC indicator on the bottom of the
LCD.
4.4.1.6 Backlight
While in the run mode, pressing the Backlight key will

illuminate the backlight for the duration specified in the back-
light options menu.
4.4.2 Command Mode Operation

The command mode is entered when the user is in the run mode
1 2
MENU K
and the , 3
,
4
, , key is pressed, or the key
is pressed when the record mode is off.
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Instruction Manual
MENU
Pressing the Menu key will display the Main Menu (see
section 4.5.1).
1 2
Pressing the Select Channels 3 4

key will display the select
channels menu (section 4.5.2).
Pressing the Bridge Type key will display the Bridge
Type Menu (section 4.5.3).
K
Pressing the Gage Factor/Scaling key will display the
Gage Factor/Scaling Menu (section 4.5.4).
4.5 Menu Commands
4.5.1 Main Menu
MENU
The Main menu is displayed when the key is pressed while
in the run mode. When the main menu appears, all measurement
activity is suspended. Use the and arrow keys to highlight

the desired menu item. Choose the desired item by pressing the
MENU
key.
** MAIN MENU **
Select Channels
Bridge Type
Gage Factor/Scaling
Recording
Balance
Shunt Calibration
Options
The following table briefly describes the menu items and the
section of this manual associated with the item.
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Instruction Manual
Menu Item Section Description

Select 4.5.2 Displays the Select Channels
Channels Menu. This menu is used to ena-
ble/disable each channel
Bridge 4.5.3 Displays the Bridge Type Menu.
Type This menu allows the user to se-
lect the type of bridge that is con-
nected to each selected channel
Gage Factor / 4.5.4 Displays the Gage Factor/Scaling
Scaling Menu
Recording 4.5.5 Displays the Recording Menu
Balance 4.5.6 Displays the Balance Menu
Shunt 4.5.7 Displays the Shunt Calibration
Calibration Menu
Options 0 Displays the Options Menu
4.5.2 Select Channels Menu

The Select Channels menu is used to activate or deactivate each
channel. If a channel is activated, the channel will accept inputs
and the measured value will be displayed while in the run mode.
A channel must be activated in order to be recorded, shunt cali-
brated, or balanced. In order to activate/deactivate a channel,
use the and keys to highlight the desired channel. Toggle
MENU
the selection by using the and keys. Press the key
to return to the run mode.
* SELECT CHANNELS *
Chan 1: Active
Chan 2: Active
Chan 3: Active
Chan 4: Active
←→ Toggle Menu=Exit
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Instruction Manual
This menu can be directly accessed while in the run mode or the
1 2
command mode by pressing the 3 4

key.
4.5.3 Bridge Type Menu

The Bridge Type menu selects the type of bridge connected to
the selected channel. The bridge type menu is accessible from
the main menu, or by pressing the key. The bridge type
determines whether the internal half bridge is used, and also de-
termines the appropriate scaling/linearization algorithm based
upon the bridge type selected.
* BRIDGE TYPE *
Ch 1: Undef HB/QB
Ch 2: Undef HB/QB
Ch 3: Undef HB/QB
Ch 4: Undef HB/QB
The table below summarizes the meaning of the provided bridge

types. For more information on the calculations used by the
Model P3, please contact our Applications Engineering De-
partment at: [email protected].
The following bridge configuration examples assume that the

raw strain data is to be reduced to equivalent uniaxial strain
with the nonlinearity correction applied where appropriate.
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Instruction Manual
The "Undef" bridge, either HB/QB or FB, is selected when the

net output of the active strain gages without mathematical cor-
rection for either Bridge configuration or nonlinearity applied is
desired.
Display Bridge Diagram Description
Single active gage in

Quarter uniaxial tension or
compression.
Two active gages with

equal and opposite
HB adj ,- strains -- typical of
bending-beam ar-
rangement.

equal strains of the
same sign -- used on
HB opp ,- opposite sides of col-
umn with low thermal
gradient (bending can-
cellation, for instance.)

equal and opposite
strains aligned with the
HB shear maximum and mini-
mum principal strains
to measure shear strain.
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Instruction Manual
Two active gages in
uniaxial stress field--
one aligned with max-
imum principal strain,
HB adj ,
the other with trans-
verse "Poisson" strain.
Default Poisson’s Ratio
= 0.3.
Four active gages with

pairs subjected to equal
FB 4 active
and opposite strains
(beam in bending).

FB shear
(shaft in torsion).
Four active gages in

uniaxial stress field--
two aligned with max-
imum principal strain,
FB  opp the other two with
transverse "Poisson"
strain (column). De-
fault Poisson’s Ratio =
0.3.
uniaxial stress field -
two aligned with max-
FB  adj imum principal strain,
the other two with
transverse "Poisson"
strain (beam). Default
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Instruction Manual
Poisson’s Ratio = 0.3.
Undefined full bridge
circuit. No correction
Undef FB for Wheatstone Bridge
nonlinearity or active
arms.
Undefined half or quar-

ter bridge circuit. No
Undef HB/QB correction for Wheat-
stone Bridge nonlinear-
ity or active arms.
4.5.4 Gage Factor/Scaling Menu

The Gage Factor/Scaling Menu allows the user to scale the in-
put signal to display the measured data in the desired engineer-
ing units. The gage factor/scaling menu is accessible from the
K
main menu or by pressing the key. In order to highlight the
desired item, use the and keys. Toggle the selection by
MENU
using the and keys. Press the key to return to the
run mode.
Scaling options are determined by the units selected. To change

the units, highlight the "Units" menu item and use the and
keys to scroll through the provided units.
4.5.4.1 Microstrain Scaling

If the selected units are με (microstrain), scaling is determined
by the gage factor of the sensor.
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Instruction Manual
*GAGE FACTOR/SCALING*
Chan : 1
Units : με
Gage Factor : 2.000
To change the gage factor, highlight the "Gage Factor" menu

item, and use the and keys to select the desired digit to
modify. The digit is changed by using the the and keys.
The default gage factor is 2.000.
4.5.4.2 Millivolts per Volt Scaling

If the selected units are millivolts per volt (mV/V), no scaling is
necessary, since the unit natively measures mV/V.
Chan : 1
Units : mV/V
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Instruction Manual
4.5.4.3 Other Engineering Units

For convenience, the following other engineering units are pro-
vided:
Psi Pounds per square inch

Ksi Thousand pounds per square inch
GPa Gigapascals
MPa Megapascals
Pa Pascals
G Grams or G’s (acceleration)
Lbf Pounds force
Lb Pounds
Kg Kilograms
In Inches
Mm Millimeters
Mil Mils (1/1000 of an inch)
Rpm Revolutions per minute
M Meters
S Seconds
A Amps
N Newtons
V Volts
Ohm Ohms
Hp Horsepower
Deg Degrees
Rad Radians
Oz Ounces
m/s2 Meters per second ^2
ton Tons
degF Degrees Fahrenheit
degC Degrees Celsius
All of the above units assume linear scaling. In order to proper-

ly scale the data, it is necessary to supply the full scale value (in
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Instruction Manual
the selected engineering units) and the mV/V output at the full
scale value.
Chan : 1
Units : psi
Full Scale : 1
F.S. mV/V : 2.000
Dec. Places : Auto
To change the full scale value, use the and keys to se-
lect the desired digit to modify. The digit is changed by using
the and keys. The default full scale value is 1.
The full scale value must be an integral value between +99999

and -99999. A full scale value of 0 is not permitted. The default
value is 1.
The full scale mV/V value must be between +15.625 mV/V and
-15.625 mV/V. A value of 0 is not permitted. The default value
is 2.000.
Note that during manual calibration, the full scale value is fixed,
and the full scale mV/V output is changed. It is therefore rec-
ommended to set this value at or near the expected full scale
value when manually scaling the channel.
To change the number of decimal places being displayed, high-

light the "Dec. places" menu item and use the and keys
to change the value. The range of decimal places is 0-3.
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Instruction Manual
4.5.5 Recording Menu

The recording menu selects the recording mode and the rate at
which data is recorded to the multimedia card (MMC). The re-
cording interval menu can be accessed directly from the main
menu by pressing the key.
There are three recording modes: Disabled, Auto, and Manual.

Use the and keys to highlight the desired menu item.
Toggle the selection by using the and keys.
4.5.5.1 Recording Disabled

In the disabled mode, recording will not occur.
* RECORDING *
Mode : Disabled
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Instruction Manual
In the Manual recording mode, selected channels are recorded
whenever the key is pressed.
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Instruction Manual
* RECORDING *
Mode : Manual
Chan 1 : ON
Chan 2 : OFF
Chan 3 : OFF
Chan 4 : OFF
4.5.5.3 Auto Recording

In the Auto recording mode, selected channels are recorded at
the specified interval. Each channel can be recorded from once
per second to once per hour (3600 seconds). When in the Auto
record mode, recording will begin when the key is pressed
* RECORDING *
Mode : Auto
Chan 1 : 1 sec
Chan 2 : OFF
Chan 3 : OFF
Chan 4 : OFF
4.5.6 Balance Mode Menu

The Balance Mode menu selects the balance mode for each
channel. Use the and keys to select the desired menu
item. Change the highlighted selection by using the and
keys. There are three modes: Auto, Manual, and Disable.
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Instruction Manual
4.5.6.1 Auto Balance

Channels using the auto balance mode will automatically be
balanced when the key is pressed while in the run mode.
The P3 makes a series of measurements and uses the mean val-
ue as the balance value.
* BALANCE MODE *
Chan: 1
Mode: Auto
4.5.6.2 Manual Balance

The manual balance mode allows the user to manually adjust
the balance. This mode allows the user to introduce an offset in
the reading. To adjust the offset, highlight the Adjust ←→
Menu item and use the and keys to increase or decrease
the measured value.
* BALANCE MODE *
Chan: 1
Mode: Manual
Adjust ←→
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Instruction Manual
+00010
4.5.6.3 Disable Balance

This mode disables the balance function. Channels using this
mode have no correction for balance; however the initial ampli-
fier zero is removed. This mode allows the user to evaluate ini-
tial bridge offsets.
* BALANCE MODE *
Chan: 1
Mode: Disable
4.5.7 Shunt Calibration Menu

The Shunt Calibration menu allows the user to adjust the sensi-
tivity of the selected channel (gage factor or full scale value)
while a calibration signal is applied. In this menu, the shunt cal
switch is closed. Use the and keys to select the desired
channel to shunt calibrate. To adjust the calibration, use the
and keys to highlight the Adjust ←→ menu item. Once
selected, the and keys can be used to increase/decrease
the sensitivity.
SHUNT CALIBRATION
Chan: 1
Adjust ←→
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Instruction Manual
+05000
4.5.8 Options Menu

The Options Menu provides the ability to modify settings not
directly related to making measurements. Use the and
arrow keys to highlight the desired menu item. Choose the de-
MENU
sired item by pressing the key.
* OPTIONS MENU *
Display
Outputs
Save Setup
Clock
Advanced
Version
Exit
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Instruction Manual
The following options are available:

Menu Item Section Description
Display 4.5.9 Adjusts the backlight and contrast
settings
Outputs 4.5.10 Controls the analog output mode
Save Setup 4.5.11 Saves the current setup to the Flash
memory
Clock 4.5.12 Adjusts the data/time of the real
time clock
Advanced 0 Advanced options
Version 4.5.18 Displays the firmware version of
the Model P3
Exit Returns to the Run Mode
4.5.9 Display Options Menu

The Display Options menu allows the user to modify the LCD
display parameters. Use the and keys to select the desired
item. Change the selection by using the and keys.
* DISPLAY OPTIONS *
Backlight: 5 sec
Contrast:
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Instruction Manual
4.5.9.1 Backlight
Adjusts the duration of the backlight while in the run mode. The
backlight key activates the backlight. Valid options are:
5 sec The backlight remains illuminated

for approximately 5 seconds.
Toggle The backlight remains illuminated
until the Backlight key is pressed
again.
MENU
Note: If the backlight is illuminated while the key is
pressed, the backlight will remain illuminated until the P3 re-
turns to the run mode.
4.5.9.2 Contrast
The contrast control adjusts the contrast of the LCD display.
Temperature variations may make it necessary to adjust the con-
trast of the LCD for the best viewing experience. Change the
selection by using the and keys. A bar graph indicates
the amount of contrast.
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Instruction Manual
4.5.10 Output Options Menu

The Output Options menu chooses the operational mode. The
possible modes are Normal, Analog out 1, Analog out 2, Ana-
log out 3, or Analog out 4:
* OUTPUT OPTIONS *
Excitation: ON
Analog Out: Off
Rejection : 60Hz
4.5.10.1 Excitation
ON: Bridge Excitation is applied during the measurement.
OFF: Bridge excitation is not applied during the measurement.
This provides the ability to identify self-generating noise
sources.
4.5.10.2 Analog Out

OFF: Data is collected at 0.5 second intervals. From one to 4
channels can be displayed. This mode provides the longest bat-
tery life, since excitation is on only during the A/D conversion.
Ch1 – Ch4: Data is collected at approximately 2ms intervals
(480 samples/sec) and the reduced data is available to the ana-
log output connector. This mode significantly decreases battery
life, since the A/D converter and excitation is constantly on.
Only one channel can be active at a time.
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Instruction Manual
4.5.10.3 Rejection
The digital filters in the Model P3 can be tuned to optimize the
noise rejection from power line frequencies. Choose between
50Hz and 60Hz
4.5.10.4 Out Range

The analog output range can be adjusted to provide full scale
output range of ±31000 (High), ±3200 (Normal) or ±310 (Low)
microstrain at Gage Factor of 2.000. Note that while the output
range can be adjusted, the resolution remains unchanged.
4.5.11 Save Setup Option

The Save Setup option takes the current instrument settings and
stores them on the internal flash memory. When the system is
powered on the next time, these settings will be utilized.
4.5.12 Clock Options

The Clock Options screen allows the user to set the date and
time on the internal real-time clock. The clock is used to time
stamp the recorded data. Highlight the desired field by using the
and keys. The and keys change the value of the
highlighted item.
* SET DATE/TIME *
MM/DD/YY HH:MM:SS
10/17/02 16:47:43
←→ Change Field
↑↓ Change Value
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Instruction Manual
Menu = Set
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Instruction Manual
4.5.13 Advanced Options Menu

The Advanced Options menu allows the user to access less fre-
quently used commands.
* ADVANCED OPTIONS *
Calibrate System
Erase MMC
Poisson Ratio: 0.30
Factory Defaults
Exit
4.5.14 Calibrate System

This option allows the user to recalibrate the Model P3. This
process requires a Micro-Measurements Model 1550A Strain
Indicator Calibrator, or another device with equivalent features
and specifications.
Calibrate System
Erase MMC
Poisson Ratio: 0.30
Factory Defaults
Exit
System calibration is accomplished by making four measure-

ments on each channel (amp zero, zero, positive and negative
full scale). Once the measurements are made and the data vali-
dated, calibration values for amplifier zero and software gain
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Instruction Manual
are stored in the internal flash memory. Readings are validated

by comparing the measured values with tolerances which are
hard coded within the firmware. If the readings fall outside the
established tolerances, the system will reject the calibration.
Once this menu item is chosen, the following screen is dis-

played:
SYSTEM CALIBRATION
Install calibrator
On channel 1 now
CAL = Calibrate
MENU = Exit
Press the key to begin the calibration process. To cancel

MENU
the calibration operation, press the key.
NOTE: Once the calibration process is initiated, it must be

completed in full; otherwise, the system will lose its calibration
information.
SYSTEM CALIBRATION
Set calibrator to
0 microstrain
CAL = Calibrate
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Instruction Manual
Connect the Model P3 to a Model 1550A Strain Indicator Cali-

brator, configured as a full bridge circuit, to channel 1. Set the
1550A to read 0 microstrain, positive polarity, and press the
key. The system will make a series of measurements, and
evaluate the average readings. If the system determines that the
values are not within a reasonable range an error screen will be
displayed:
Zero measurement
Exceeds tolerance
Calibration aborted
Menu = Exit
The system will then revert back to the previous calibration val-
ues. If the readings are within tolerance, the system initiates the
next step:
SYSTEM CALIBRATION
Set calibrator to
+30000 microstrain
CAL = Calibrate
Set the 1550A calibrator to read 30000 microstrain (positive

polarity), and press the key.
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Instruction Manual
The system will make another series of measurements, validate

the readings, and, if valid, will display the next step:
SYSTEM CALIBRATION
Set calibrator to
-30000 microstrain
CAL = Calibrate
Set the 1550A calibrator to -30000 (negative polarity), and

press the key.
Finally, the system needs to establish a true electrical zero (amp

zero).
SYSTEM CALIBRATION
Set calibrator to
S+/S- short
CAL = Calibrate
Short the S+ and S- terminals on the 1550A calibrator and press

the key.
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Instruction Manual
This process will repeat on the remaining three channels. Once

the calibration process is complete, the system will store the
new calibration coefficients in the internal flash memory, along
with the calibration date.
NOTE: The Model P3 is a ratiometric measuring device, so the
measurement is not affected by fluctuations in the excitation
voltage. It is therefore important to use a Wheatstone Bridge-
based calibrator. Other sources, such as a precision voltage ref-
erence, are not suitable for calibration purposes.
4.5.15 Erase Memory Card

The Erase MMC option erases all files on the memory card.
Calibrate System
Upgrade Firmware
Erase Memory Card
Poisson Ratio: 0.30
Factory Defaults
Exit
Top prevent accidental erasure, a confirmation screen is dis-

played:
Erase Memory Card?
REC=Yes Menu=No
MENU
Press the key to erase the card. Press the key to abort
without erasing.
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Instruction Manual
4.5.16 Poisson’s Ratio

This option allows the user to define Poisson’s ratio of the ma-
terial that the strain gage is bonded to. Poisson’s ratio is used to
calculate strain in bridge configurations which are dependent
upon Poisson’s ratio.
Calibrate System
Upgrade Firmware
Erase MMC
Poisson Ratio: 0.30
Factory Defaults
Exit
Use the and keys to increase or decrease this value. The

factory default is 0.3.
4.5.17 Factory Defaults

This option returns the P3 to its initial factory settings. The set-
tings can be made permanent by pressing the record key
when prompted.
4.5.18 Version
This option displays the splash screen and the version infor-
mation. Normal operation resumes after approximately 3 sec-
onds.
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Instruction Manual
5 Battery Replacement
When the P3 is operated under battery power, battery condition
is indicated by the battery icon, located on the lower right hand
corner of the screen in the run mode.
Ch1 με Ch2 με
+01000 +00216
Ch3 με Ch4 με
+00524 +00914
When the battery icon indicates that the battery is low (by re-
placing the battery icon with "LO" on the lower right corner of
the display), the batteries should be changed. To replace the bat-
teries, follow these steps:
Determine the location of battery compartment. Newer units

have the batteries accessed from the left side of the case. On
older units the batteries are accessed from the interior of the
case. Follow the following instructions that apply to your
unit:
Newer Units:
1. Locate battery compartment on left of case.
2. Push on knurled cover and rotate counterclockwise until
cover separates from battery compartment.
3. Remove the two "D" cells from the compartment, and
replace them with two new alkaline "D" cells. OB-
SERVE CORRECT POLARITY.
4. Reassemble the unit.
5. Reset the date/time (Options|Clock).
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Instruction Manual
Older Units:
1. Remove the four screws located on the bottom of the

case with a Phillips head screwdriver and remove the in-
strument from the case.
2. Remove the two screws from the battery retainer plate
using a Phillips head screwdriver.
3. Remove the two "D" cells from the retainer, and replace
them with two new alkaline "D" cells. OBSERVE
CORRECT POLARITY.
4. Reassemble the unit.
5. Reset the date/time (Options|Clock).
NOTE: If the P3 must remain on during battery replacement,

connect a power source to either the Power In jack or the USB
connector.
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Model P3 Data Acquisition Conditioner
Instruction Manual
6 Software Operation
6.1 Overview
The Model P3 is supplied with application software to config-
ure the P3 and collect data via the USB Interface. The software
supports a combination of up to six Model P3 or Model D4 de-
vices, differentiated by serial number. The firmware version of
your P3 (or D4) must be 2.50 or greater to work with this ap-
plication. Use the upgrade firmware feature of your previous
application to update the firmware to the latest level.
6.2 Connecting the P3(s) to the PC

Connect the USB interface on the P3 to an open USB port on
the PC using the supplied cable. After the P3 goes through its
initialization cycle, the PC should recognize the P3 automati-
cally.
When multiple P3s or D4s are connected at the same time, it

may take the PC several minutes to recognize all units.
You may monitor the PC’s

recognition of each device
in the Windows Device
Manager. A USB Human
Interface Device will appear
in the Device Manager for
each D4 and P3 connected.
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Instruction Manual
6.3 Application Startup

Once the devices are connected to your PC, start the applica-
tion from Windows by navigating to the following item in the
startup menu:
Start>>Programs>>
Micro-Measurements P3-D4>> P3-D4 Application
The application will automatically connect to the devices. De-

pending on the speed of the PC and the number of devices, this
process can take 1-5 minutes.
When the software has recognized the devices, the software

will display a Monitor Screen for each device connected and
one Control Screen that contains the menu bar.
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Instruction Manual
Note: Additional devices should not be added while the appli-

cation software is running. Exit the software before adding or
removing devices from the system.
6.4 Screen Management
The Control Screen and Monitor Screens may be moved by
clicking and dragging the title bar. A Monitor Screen may be
re-sized by clicking and dragging the lower right corner of the
screen.
6.5 Control Screen
The control screen gives you access to the main program menu
and the recording controls.
6.6 Monitor Screen

The Monitor Screen shows the channel readings. By default,
the channel readings are active when you start the program. To
turn the readings display on or off, on the Control Screen
menu, select Hardware>>Real Time Display.
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Instruction Manual
The screen on the left shows a Monitor Screen when readings

are inactive. The screen on the right shows the screen when
readings are active. Note that readings are grayed out when the
display is inactive.
6.6.1 Identify a P3
The serial number of each P3 displays in the title bar of the
window. If you need to identify which P3 is associated with a
serial number, you may select Hardware>>Identify and then
select that serial number. The front panel will blink on
the P3. You may also use the icon on the display area
to illuminate the front panel.
6.6.2 Peak Values

The display of peak values (“Min peak” and “Max peak”) may
be turned on or off with the menu item File>>Display Peak
Values. Peak values for all channels may be reset with the
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Instruction Manual
menu item Channels>>Reset Peak Values. Peak values for a

specific channel may be reset by right-clicking in the channel
reading segment and selecting Reset Peak.
No peak values
displayed
Peak values
displayed
Peak values
reset
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Instruction Manual
6.7 Channel Configuration

To access the configuration values for a channel, select Chan-
nels>>Settings on the Control Screen. (The real-time display
readings must be disabled to access this screen.) If multiple
devices are connected, click on the serial number of the desired
P3 under Devices. The front panel on that P3 will blink to con-
firm the selection.
Click on the channel to be configured. Note: Each of the four

channels on a P3 must be set independently.
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Instruction Manual
At the bottom of the screen are three buttons:

 Click Cancel to exit the screen without saving changes.
Note: Cancel will not undo any changes that have been
applied.
 Click Apply to apply the configuration changes imme-
diately. Results may be viewed on the Monitor Screen.
 Click OK to exit the channel configuration screen and
save changes.
6.7.1 Channel Name

The channel name entered will identify the channel on the
Monitor Screen and in the recorded data file. The default is:
Channel N, where N is the channel number 1 through 4.
6.7.2 Bridge Type

The bridge type determines whether the internal half bridge is
used and determines the appropriate scaling/linearization algo-
rithm. The following table summarizes the bridge types. For
more information on the calculations used by the P3, please
contact the Micro-Measurements application engineering de-
partment.
The following bridge configuration examples assume that the

raw strain data is to be reduced to equivalent uniaxial strain
with the nonlinearity correction applied where appropriate.
Select the "Undef" bridge, either Half-Bridge/Quarter-Bridge

or Full-Bridge when you require the net output of the active
strain gages without mathematical correction for either bridge.
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Instruction Manual
Selection Bridge Diagram Description
Single active gage in

Quarter uniaxial tension or com-
pression.

HB adj equal and opposite
,- strains—typical of bend-
ing-beam arrangement.

equal strains of the same
HB opp sign—used on opposite
sides of column with
,-
low thermal gradient
(bending cancellation,
for instance.)
equal and opposite
strains aligned with the
HB shear
maximum and minimum
principal strains to
measure shear strain.
Two active gages in uni-
axial stress field—one
HB adj aligned with maximum
principal strain, the other
,
with transverse "Pois-
son" strain. Default
Poisson’s Ratio = 0.3.
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Instruction Manual

FB 4 pairs subjected to equal
active and opposite strains
(beam in bending).

FB shear
(shaft in torsion).

uniaxial stress field—
two aligned with maxi-
mum principal strain, the
FB  opp
other two with trans-
verse "Poisson" strain
(column). Default Pois-
son’s Ratio = 0.3.
uniaxial stress field—
two aligned with maxi-
mum principal strain, the
FB  adj
other two with trans-
verse "Poisson" strain
(beam). Default Pois-
son’s Ratio = 0.3.
Undefined full bridge

circuit. No correction for
Undef FB
Wheatstone Bridge non-
linearity or active arms.
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Instruction Manual

Undefined half- or quar-
ter-bridge circuit. No
Undef
correction for Wheat-
HB/QB
stone Bridge nonlineari-
ty or active arms.
Table 1 Bridge Types
6.7.3 Number of Decimal Places to Display

Enter the number of values you would like to have after the
decimal place on the displayed data.
Value Description
0 Display no decimal places; e.g. 123
1 Display 1 decimal place; e.g. 123.1
2 Display 2 decimal places; e.g. 123.12
n Where n is the number of decimal places.
6.7.4 Scaling
The engineering units for a channel may be microstrain (ue),
millivolts per volt (mV/V), or may be user defined. Scaling
options on the P3 are determined by the units selected.
6.7.4.1 Strain Gage Inputs

Microstrain: If the selected units are ue (microstrain), scaling
is determined by the gage factor of the sensor as follows:
Range: 0.500 to 9.900
Default: 2.000
Millivolts per volt: If the selected units are millivolts per volt
(mV/V), no scaling is necessary.
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Instruction Manual
6.7.4.2 Transducer Inputs

Custom: User-defined units (such as psi or cm) assume linear
scaling. To properly scale the data, enter the following parame-
ters:
 Engineering Units
Enter up to four characters. This will be displayed in
the channel segment on the Monitor Screen.
 Full Scale in mV/V

Enter the millivolt per volt value at full scale. This val-
ue is used in conjunction with the Full Scale in Engi-
neering Units value. It is used with engineering units
other than microstrain (ue) or mV/V. During manual
shunt calibration, fix the full-scale value in engineering
units and change the full-scale mV/V value. It is rec-
ommended to set this value at or near the expected full-
scale value when manually scaling the channel.
Range: -15.625 to +15.625 (excluding 0)
Default: 2.000
 Full Scale in Engineering Units

Defines the full-scale value for engineering units other
than ue or mV/V. All scaling is linear.
Range: -99999 to 99999 (excluding a value of 0)
Default: 1
6.7.5 Balance (Zero)

Balancing specifies that the current value of a sensor is the zero
offset reading. Because this zero offset reading is rarely 0.00,
it is typically subtracted from all subsequent readings. Channel
readings returned from the P3 have the zero offset removed.
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Instruction Manual
You may auto-balance a channel, manually balance the chan-

nel, or disable the removal of the zero offset. The default bal-
ance value is 0.
6.7.5.1 Auto Balance (Zero)

The steps in performing an auto-balance operation for a single
channel are:
1. Enter all of the other channel settings before you
auto balance.
2. Adjust the sensor to the correct setting for a zero
reading.
3. Set the Balance Mode of the channel to Auto.
4. Click the Zero button.
5. The new balance value is reflected in the slide bar
and applied to the channel reading.
A zero (auto-balance) also may be applied to an individual

channel on the Monitor Screen by right-clicking in the channel
segment and selecting Zero.
You may also perform a zero (auto-balance) of all channels on

all P3s by the menu item Channels>>Zero All.
6.7.5.2 Manual Balance

Before performing a manual balance operation, it is recom-
mended that the real time display is active. The steps in fine-
tuning the balance value after an auto-balance operation are:
1. Perform the auto-balance operation; make sure the
value is applied. (If you don’t wish to auto-balance
first, then configure the channel and adjust your
sensor to the correct setting for a zero reading.)
2. Set the Balance Mode to Manual.
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Instruction Manual
3. The balance value from the auto-balance operation

is reflected in the slide bar. The balance value is
displayed in raw counts.
4. Depending on the current reading and the desired
reading, adjust the balance value on the slide bar ei-
ther up or down.
The slide bar has the range selections of coarse, medium, fine
and ultra-fine. The coarse selection has the widest range of
balance settings and a coarser step size. Ultra-fine has the nar-
rowest range of balance settings and a small step size. The
medium and fine selections fall in between.
6.7.5.3 Balance Mode Disabled

Channels with the Balance Mode disabled will not remove any
zero offset from the reading; however, the initial amplifier zero
is removed. This mode allows you to evaluate initial bridge
offsets. Click the Apply button to see the changes reflected in
the channel reading on the Monitor Screen.
6.8 Saving and Recalling Settings (PC)
You may save the application’s current settings to a file on
your PC with the menu item File>>Save Configuration. The
settings may be recalled with the menu item File>>Load Con-
figuration.
In addition to the channel settings, the Poisson’s Ratio, Record

Interval, Peak Value setting and Offscale Values are saved.
6.9 Saving Settings to the P3
The menu item Hardware>>Save Configuration to Flash lets
you select a device and store the current device settings to the
device’s internal flash memory. This will become the default
configuration for the device after a power-cycle. If you wish to
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Instruction Manual
return to the factory default settings, use the Channels>>Reset

All menu item to reset the settings and then store those settings
to flash. You can also reset to factory defaults via the P3’s
front panel.
6.10 Channel Readings Adjustments
6.10.1 Reset (Set to Default)
The menu item Channels>>Reset All resets the channel con-
figuration values on all devices to their default settings.
6.10.2 Excitation Output & Noise Rejection Settings

The Hardware>>Other Device Settings menu item allows you
to access the Excitation Output setting and the Noise Rejection
frequency setting.
The bridge excitation out-

put should be enabled dur-
ing normal operation. You
may disable the excitation
output to identify self-
generating noise sources.
The digital filters in the P3

may be tuned to optimize
the noise rejection from
power line frequencies.
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Instruction Manual
6.10.3 Format Offscale Value

You may specify the value that is used to indicate positive off-
scale and negative
offscale readings us-
ing the menu item
File>>Configure Off-
scale Display. This
value is used on the
Monitor Screen and in
recorded data.
If you are planning on charting your recorded data with a

spreadsheet, you may wish to change these values to a numeric
(for example, 99999 and -99999).
6.10.4 Poisson’s Ratio

You may define the Poisson’s ratio of the material to which the
strain gage is bonded using the menu item Hard-
ware>>Poisson’s Ratio. Poisson’s ratio is used to calculate
strain in bridge configurations that are dependent upon Pois-
son’s ratio. This value is shared among all channels on the se-
lected P3.
Range: 0.0 to 0.5

Default: 0.3
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Instruction Manual
6.11 P3 Display Options

Backlight mode sets amount of time the backlight remains il-
luminated when the backlight key is pressed while in the run
mode. Toggle means
that the backlight re-
mains illuminated
until the backlight
key is pressed again.
The contrast dial sets
the contrast of the P3
front panel.
You may use the icon
on the P3’s display area to illuminate the front panel.
6.12 P3 Output Settings
When the analog mode is disabled, data is collected and dis-
played from all active channels. When the analog output is ac-
tive for a selected channel, the reduced data is available to the
analog output connector.
Only one channel can be
active at a time.
The analog output range

can be adjusted to provide
full scale output range of
±31000 (High), ±3200
(Normal) or ±310 (Low)
microstrain at Gage Fac-
tor of 2.000.
Please see the description

in the front panel section
for more information.
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Instruction Manual
6.13 Charting
Charting maps the real time display readings. To begin chart-
ing, select Channels>>Chart. The chart window will display
and charting will begin.
6.13.1 Charting Controls

The following fields displayed at the bottom of the screen may
be used to control the charting:
 Pause Display checkbox – Suspends/resumes the
charting.
 Update Interval – Enter the desired interval for how
often the chart is updated in milliseconds. The min-
imum interval is 125 milliseconds.
 Number of points – Enter the desired number of da-
ta points (readings) to be displayed.
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Instruction Manual
 Min Y Axis – Two options exist for charting the

minimum Y axis value:
o One is to check the Auto (min) box. This will
automatically adjust the min value based on the
min value of the plotted data.
o Or, uncheck the Auto checkbox. This will allow
entry of a fixed value in Min Y Axis.
 Max Y Axis – As with the minimum value, either
check the Auto checkbox, or uncheck it and enter a
value in Max Y Axis.
 Channels - Select the channels to be charted.
6.13.2 Charting Colors

Colors may be adjusted by selecting File>>Configure Chart
Trace Colors. Select and save the colors prior to launching the
chart.
6.14 Recording to the PC
The P3-D4 application software supports both manual and
time-based recording.
6.14.1 Setting up the Data File

To specify the data file name and location, click Select File on
the Control Screen.
Browse to the path of the desired

location, enter the file name,
then click Save.
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Instruction Manual
6.14.1.1 Time-based Recording

The application records data on a periodic basis. To set the
interval, select File>>Record Interval. The minimum record-
ing interval for a scan is 500 milliseconds. A scan is defined as
one reading from all active channels. Active channels are dis-
played on the Monitor Screen(s).
Note: P3s cannot acquire data faster than 2Hz.
Time-based recording can be started, paused, or stopped from

the Control Screen.

Click the manual recording button Manual Record (Single
Shot) to record one scan to the data file. Manual recording can
be performed when time-based recording is active. The maxi-
mum recording rate is 8Hz.
6.14.2 Data File Format

The data is stored in a standard, ASCII-format text file. This
format may be viewed with MS Notepad or with a spreadsheet
program such as MS Excel.
The first line is the data header. All columns are separated by
the ASCII tab character 09 (09h). The line is terminated with a
carriage return and line feed.
Subsequent lines contain the tab-delimited data. All lines are

terminated with a carriage return (ASCII character 13 (0Dh)
and line feed (ASCII character 10 (0Ah).
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Instruction Manual
Text file shown in Notepad
File shown after import into MS Excel
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Instruction Manual
6.15 Recording to the P3

The recording options select the recording mode and the rate at
which data is recorded to the P3’s on-board multimedia card
(MMC).
The recording
options but-
ton is located
at the top of
each P3’s
display win-
dow.
There are three recording modes: Disabled, Auto, and Manual.
In the disabled mode,

recording will not occur.
In the manual recording

mode selected channels
are recorded whenever
the recording button is
pressed.
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Instruction Manual
In auto mode you

may configure the
selected channels to
record on a periodic
basis.
Manual and auto recording modes stop when the stop recording
button is pressed.
The number of data groups recorded is counted in the “Rec-

ords” field.
6.16 Reading Data from the P3
After data has been recorded to the multimedia card it can be
downloaded to the PC by removing the MMC card and using a
card reader on your PC. Or you can use the programmatic
function accessed by the button
To download programmatically, first select the file you wish to

download then press the download button.
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Instruction Manual
In order to make sure your MMC card doesn’t fill up, it’s rec-
ommended that you erase the MMC card after your downloads
have been verified.
6.17 Calibration
6.17.1 Shunt Calibration
Shunt Calibration functionality allows you to adjust the sensi-
tivity of the selected channel (gage factor or full-scale value)
while a calibration signal is applied. The shunt calibration fac-
tor is primarily used to remove any offsets due to lead-wire re-
sistance.
When you enable shunt calibration, a precision shunt resistor is

placed between the P- and the appropriate dummy (D120, D350,
D1000) resistor. The internal shunt calibration resistors simulate
an equivalent strain of 5000με at a gage factor of 2.000. The
shunt resistor is applied to all channels simultaneously.
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Instruction Manual
The steps in performing a shunt calibration are:

1. Configure the channel.
2. Balance (zero) the channel.
3. Enable the shunt calibration by selecting Hard-
ware>>Enable Shunt Calibration on the Control
Screen.
4. View the adjusted channel reading on the Monitor
Screen.
5. If the channel’s engineering unit is set to ue (mi-
crostrain), adjust the gage factor. If the engineering
units are user-defined, adjust the full-scale in milli-
volts/volt setting. Click the Apply button to see the
changes reflected in the channel reading on the
main screen.
6. Loop through steps 4 and 5 until the desired reading
is obtained.
7. Unselect Hardware>>Enable Shunt Calibration on
the Control Screen.
6.17.2 System Calibration Software

To calibrate a P3, first stop the channel readings by unselecting
Hardware>>Real Time Display on the Control Screen. Then
select Hardware>>Calibrate on the Control Screen and select
the serial number of the P3 to be calibrated.
Note: Performing an improper calibration may render your P3
inoperable.
6.17.3 Required Instruments

The calibration process requires a Micro-Measurements Model
1550A Strain Indicator Calibrator, or another device with
equivalent features and specifications. The P3 is a ratiometric
measuring device, so measurement is not affected by fluctua-
tions in the excitation voltage. It is therefore important to use a
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Instruction Manual
Wheatstone Bridge–based calibrator. Other sources, such as a

precision voltage reference, are not suitable for calibration pur-
poses. This section assumes that you are using a Model
1550A.
The system calibration process takes four measurements on

each channel: zero, positive and negative full scale, and amp
zero. After the measurements are taken, calibration values for
amplifier zero and software gain are stored in the internal flash
memory.
Following are the steps involved in performing a system cali-

bration. These steps must be performed in the order shown and
all channels must be calibrated. To abort the process after be-
ginning calibration, select the Abort Calibration button and
power-cycle the P3. To abort before beginning calibration, se-
lect Exit Calibration.
Note: Each time Take Reading is selected, in-process and com-

pletion messages are displayed in the status bar at the bottom
left of the screen.
Step 1: Get previous calibration values (optional)

Before calibrating the system, you may want to report the last
calibration date and the previous (on-card) calibration settings
for each channel. Select the Get Previous Cal Values button to
retrieve the data from the P3. Enter any desired text into the
Additional Report Data text box; this text will be included in
saved/printed calibration reports.
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Instruction Manual
To save and print a calibration report, select the Save Previous

Cal Values button. When the Save As window displays. navi-
gate to the desired location in which to save the file. Retain the
default file name or change as desired.
The default file name for the calibration report, whether created
before or after calibration, is as follows:
SSSSSS_YYYY_MM_DD_M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt
where:
SSSSSS is the serial number of the P3,
YYYY_MM_DD is the date, and
M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt is the terminator.
When Save is clicked, your default text file viewer, e.g., MS

Notepad, will be launched, displaying the calibration values.
The file may be printed using the viewer.
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Instruction Manual
Step 2: Calibrate each channel

All of step 2 must be repeated for each of the four channels on
the P3. The channels may be calibrated in any order, but steps
2A through 2E must be performed sequentially. Begin by se-
lecting a channel (1 through 4) from the drop-down list.
Step 2A: Install calibrator on selected channel

Configure the Model 1550A Strain Indicator Calibrator as a
full-bridge circuit and install on the selected channel. See
Figure 9 for connection details.
- 78 -
Instruction Manual
Step 2B: Take a zero reading

Set the 1550A calibrator to 0 µε, positive polarity and click
the Take Zero Reading button.
Step 2C: Take a positive, full-scale reading

Set the 1550A calibrator to +30,000 µε (positive polarity)
and click the Take Reading button.
Step 2D: Take a negative, full-scale reading

Set the 1550A calibrator to -30,000 µε (negative polarity)
and the click the Take Reading button.
Step 2E: Take an amp zero reading

Finally, the system needs to establish a true electrical zero
(amp zero). Set the 1550A calibrator to 0 µε, positive po-
larity, short the S+ and S- terminals on the 1550A calibra-
tor and click the Take Reading button below step 2E. Val-
ues will appear in the Amp Zero and Gain indicator fields.
Note: After the first channel has been completed, the Abort
Calibration is available.
Step 3: Finish the system calibration process

After measurements for all four channels have been taken, se-
lect the Finish Calibration button to complete the system cali-
bration process.
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Instruction Manual
When the calibration process is complete, “Calibration Com-

plete” displays in the status bar at the bottom of the screen.
The system will store the new calibration values in the P3s in-
ternal flash memory, along with the calibration date.
Step 4: Retrieve the new calibration data and date (option-

al)
After calibration, you may view, save and print the new cali-
bration date and calibration settings. To view the data, select
the Get Current Cal button.
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Instruction Manual
To save and print a calibration report, select the Save Current

Cal Values button. When the Save As window displays, navi-
gate to the desired location in which to save the file. Retain the
default file name or change as desired. The default file name
for the calibration report is as follows:
SSSSSS_YYYY_MM_DD_M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt, where:
SSSSSS is the serial number of the P3,
YYYY_MM_DD is the date, and
M-M_Device_Cal_Report.txt is the terminator.
When Save is clicked, your default text file viewer, e.g., MS

Notepad, will be launched, displaying the calibration report.
Both the previous and current calibration data will be included.
The file may be printed using the viewer.
Click the Exit Calibration button to end the calibration process.
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Instruction Manual
6.18 Program Messages

Program status and informational messages may be displayed
by selecting the File>>Show Activity Log menu item. Mes-
sages are added to this log only when it is opened.
6.19 Upgrading Firmware

Note: Before upgrading, disable the real-time display. Go to
Hardware>>Real Time Display and unselect it if it is checked.
To upgrade to a newer version of firmware on the P3, select

Hardware>>Update Firmware on the menu. Select the serial
number of the P3 to receive the update. (Recording and dis-
plays will be halted when selection is made.)
A file browser appears that lets you select the firmware up-
grade file. By default this file is named “158000056_P3.hex”.
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Instruction Manual
Typically you will navigate to the latest file provided by Mi-

cro-Measurements. After you select OK, a confirmation
prompt will appear showing the current firmware version of the
P3 and the version that you are attempting to install. If the ver-
sions are correct, select OK to continue. A progress bar will
display to track the upgrade.
While the upgrade is occurring, do not touch the P3 hardware

or the software application. You will be requested to power-
cycle the P3 and restart the application when the upgrade is
complete.
If you need to upgrade several P3’s, it is okay to choose Restart

Later. That way you only need to restart the application once
after you have upgraded all of the P3s. However, power-cycle
the P3 immediately. Note: You will be unable to communicate
with the P3 until the application has been restarted.
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Instruction Manual
WARRANTY
Vishay Measurements Group, Inc., warrants all instruments it manufactures to be free from defect in materials and factory
workmanship, and agrees to repair or replace any instrument that fails to perform as specified within three years after date of
shipment. Coverage of computers, cameras, rechargeable batteries, and similar items, sold in conjunction with equipment
manufactured by Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. and bearing the identifying name of another company, is limited under this
warranty to one year after the date of shipment. The warranty on no rechargeable batteries and similar consumable items is
limited to the delivery of goods free from defects in materials and factory workmanship. This warranty shall not apply to any
instrument that has been:
i) repaired, worked on or altered by persons unauthorized by the Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. in such
a manner as to injure, in our sole judgment, the performance, stability, or reliability of the instrument;
ii) subjected to misuse, negligence, or accident; or
iii) connected, installed, adjusted, or used otherwise than in accordance with the instructions furnished by us.
At no charge, we will repair, at our plant, or an authorized repair station, or at our option, replace any of our products found to
be defective under this warranty.
This warranty is in lieu of any other warranties, expressed or implied, including any implied warranties of merchantabil-
ity or fitness for a particular purpose. There are no warranties which extend beyond the description on the face hereof.
Purchaser acknowledges that all goods purchased from Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. are purchased as is, and
buyer states that no salesman, agent, employee or other person has made any such representations or warranties or
otherwise assumed for Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. any liability in connection with the sale of any goods to the
purchaser. Buyer hereby waives all rights buyer may have arising out of any breach of contract or breach of warranty
on the part of Vishay Measurements Group, Inc., to any incidental or consequential damages, including but not limited
to damages to property, damages for injury to the person, damages for loss of use, loss of time, loss of profits or income,
or loss resulting from personal injury.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages for consumer products, so the above
limitations or exclusions may not apply to you.
The Purchaser agrees that the Purchaser is responsible for notifying any subsequent buyer of goods manufactured by Vishay
Measurements Group, Inc. of the warranty provisions, limitations, exclusions and disclaimers stated herein, prior to the time any
such goods are purchased by such buyer, and the Purchaser hereby agrees to indemnify and hold Vishay Measurements Group,
Inc. harmless from any claim asserted against or liability imposed on Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. occasioned by the
failure of the Purchaser to so notify such buyer. This provision is not intended to afford subsequent purchasers any warranties or
rights not expressly granted to such subsequent purchasers under the law.
Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. reserves the right to make any changes in the design or construction of its instruments at any
time, without incurring any obligation to make any change whatever in units previously delivered. Micro-Measurement’s sole
liabilities, and buyer’s sole remedies, under this agreement shall be limited to the purchase price, or at our sole discretion, to the
repair or replacement of any instrument that proves, upon examination, to be defective, when returned to our factory, transporta-
tion prepaid by the buyer, within the applicable period of time from the date of original shipment.
Return transportation charges of repaired or replacement instruments under warranty will be prepaid by Vishay Measurements
Group, Inc..
Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. is solely a manufacturer and assumes no responsibility of any form for the accuracy or
adequacy of any test results, data, or conclusions which may result from the use of its equipment.
The manner in which the equipment is employed and the use to which the data and test results may be put are completely in the
hands of the Purchaser. Vishay Measurements Group, Inc. shall in no way be liable for damages consequential or incidental to
defects in any of its products.
This warranty constitutes the full understanding between the manufacturer and buyer, and no terms, conditions, understanding,
or agreement purporting to modify or vary the terms hereof shall be binding unless hereafter made in writing and signed by an
authorized official of Vishay Measurements Group, Inc..
- 84 -

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Model P3

P.O. Box 27777

Telephone: (919) 365-3800

January 2013 130-000109

Model P3 Strain Indicator and Recorder

The Model P3 accepts full- half- and quarter-bridge inputs; all

Operation of the Model P3 is straightforward and intuitive, us-

The Model P3 utilizes modern digital signal processing tech-

Data may be stored on industry-standard secure digital (SD) and

2.1 Input Connections

2.4 Data Conversion

2.9 Bridge Excitation

2.13 Analog Output

LCD Keypad Power Analog

3.1 USB Interface

When connected, the PC (running Windows 98, 2000, or XP)

The Model P3 is supplied with user-friendly Windows-based

In addition, an ActiveX control is supplied to simplify the de-

The Model P3 can also operate as a stand-alone system, without

3.2 Memory Card Slot

Recorded can be either uploaded to a PC using the on-board

Note: You should always tin stranded wires before insertion

3.4 LCD Display

The Model P3 has three sources of power: Battery, USB or AC

If no external supply is detected, the system must be turned on

4.3 Input Connections

4.3.1 Quarter Bridge Connections

Select the dummy terminal (D120, D350, or D1K) to correspond

4.3.2 Half Bridge Connections

4.3.3 Full Bridges and Transducers

In addition to bridge wiring, a switch closure is provided for an

The transducer manufacturer will generally specify exactly how

4.3.4 Transducer Input Connector Option

Model P3 with Transducer Connectors

The input connectors connect the strain gage or transducer to

Symbol Function Pin

If additional plugs are desired, they are available from Micro-

The P3 uses the same transducer connector as the Model P3500.

Symbol Function P3 P3500

4.4 Operational Modes

4.4.1 Run Mode Operation

4.4.1.1 Display Pause

Note: While in the pause mode, recording to the MMC is also

4.4.1.2 Peak Read

The peak hold function is accessed by using the and arrow

To reset the peak display, press the . To return to the normal

Pressing the key will update the display if a value smaller

To reset the peak display, press the key. To return to the

4.4.1.3 Shunt Calibration

4.4.1.4 Auto Balance

Ready to Auto Balance

To start the auto-balance sequence, press the BAL key. To

4.4.1.5 Manual Recording

The total number of records in the currently open file will be

While in the run mode, pressing the Backlight key will

4.4.2 Command Mode Operation

Pressing the Select Channels 3 4

activity is suspended. Use the and arrow keys to highlight

Menu Item Section Description