Feature: Sensor Technology
Manual calibration can be time-consuming. Adjustments need to be made incrementally, readings checked and rechecked and every small alteration must be verified before proceeding to the next step.
Mantracourt’s In-Line Amplifier (ILA),
which converts signals from strain gauges and load cells into a stable 4-20 mA output, offers a unique perspective on this evolution. As it supports both manual and digital calibration, we can compare the two methods side by side to see how each process differs. In a manual calibration, engineers
would typically use a screwdriver to adjust the gain and offset potentiometers while taking repeated measurements to ensure accuracy. Te process involves trial and error, with each adjustment needing to be rechecked. Depending on the complexity of the system, this could take many hours,
particularly for large-scale installations. In contrast, digital calibration with
the ILA is handled through a USB connection to a laptop using the ILA Toolkit. This allows engineers to monitor the calibration in real time, quickly making adjustments, and applying automated calibration routines. The result is a process that is not only faster but also less prone to human error. Instead of making small manual tweaks and rechecking measurements, engineers can use the software to instantly apply and verify adjustments, saving both time and effort.
It’s not as hard as it seems One common misconception is that switching to digital tools requires significant training or expertise. However, modern calibration soſtware, like the ILA Toolkit, is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, meaning engineers can quickly get up to speed. While digital gain and offset potentiometers operate in 256 defined steps, unlike the limitless adjustment of traditional potentiometers, this level of precision is sufficient for most use cases, enabling engineers to achieve highly accurate calibrations. Many digital tools are also designed to integrate smoothly into current workflows, offering flexibility and ease of use. While manual calibration has served
the engineering world well for decades, the shiſt towards digital methods is inevitable. By adopting digital calibration tools, engineers can streamline workflows, improve accuracy and significantly reduce operational costs.
You can find out more about the ILA at
www.mantracourt.com
www.electronicsworld.co.uk February 2025 19
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