Force Sensor
(CI-6537)
Introduction
The Force Sensor is designed to be used with a PASCO analog
interface, such as the 850 Universal Interface (UI-5000) or 550
Universal Interface (UI-5001). This sensor has an output range
of ±8 volts (V) and a measurement range of ±50 newtons (N).
The sensor is designed to produce -8 V for a force of -50 N, 0 V
for "zero" force, and +8 V for +50 N. (Note that a push is
considered a positive force, and a pull is considered a negative
force.) The sensor has strain gauges mounted on a specifically-
designed "binocular beam". This beam deflects less than 1
millimeter and includes built-in over-limit protection, preventing
the sensor from being damaged if a force greater than ±50 N is
applied for a short time.
The Force Sensor consists of the housing for the beam and
electronics, a cable with an 8-pin DIN plug for connecting to the
computer interface, and a detachable hook. The housing has a
Tare button on the same side of the housing as the cable and a
thumbscrew on the end opposite the detachable hook.
The bottom of the housing fits into the accessory tray of a
PASCO dynamics cart. The top of the housing has the same
dimensions as the dynamics cart accessory tray and includes
notches at the end for mounting the Picket Fence accessory
(ME-9804), as well as two threaded holes (M5 metric threads).
You can mount any accessory that fits on top of the dynamics
cart into the tray on top of the Force Sensor.
Equipment
Included equipment:
Force Sensor
Bumper attachment
Hook attachment
Ziplock bag (not pictured)
Additional equipment required:
• PASCO Capstone or SPARKvue data collection software
• Analog interface, such as the 850 Universal Interface
(UI-5000) or 550 Universal Interface (UI-5001)
NOTE: The 850 Universal Interface can only be
used with Capstone and is not compatible with
SPARKvue.
Features
Hole for support rod
Accommodates a support rod up to 1/2" in diameter.
Thumbscrew
Use to secure a support rod in place once inserted.
Threaded hole mounting screw
Features M5 metric thread. Use to mount the Force Sensor
to a dynamics cart.
Tare button
Press to set the current recorded value of the sensor to
zero.
Detachable hook
Can be replaced with the bumper attachment as desired.
Analog cable
Leads to the 8-pin DIN plug used to connect the sensor to
an analog interface.
Get the software
You can use the sensor with SPARKvue or PASCO Capstone
software. If you’re not sure which to use, visit
pasco.com/products/guides/software-comparison
SPARKvue is available as a free app for Chromebook, iOS, and
Android devices. We offer a free trial of SPARKvue and
Capstone for Windows and Mac. To get the software, go to
or search for SPARKvue in your device’s
app store.
If you have installed the software previously, check that you have
the latest update:
SPARKvue
Go to Main Menu
> Check for Updates
PASCO Capstone
Go to Help > Check for Updates.
Product Guide | 012-05804D
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