Ressources
Questions-Réponses (FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Our FAQs section provides on-line answers to technical questions, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Questions are grouped by topic. Click on a topic to go to that section.
If you are unable to find an answer to your question please contact us to speak to one of our technical sales engineers or your local Mecmesin distributor, who will be happy to help you.
Topics: Calibration and Service; Digital Force Gauges; Emperor™, Emperor™Lite and TL Pro Software; MultiTest-x Test Systems; Miscellaneous
Calibration and Service
How can I arrange for my equipment to be repaired, serviced or calibrated? (MultiTest, MultiTest-i, MultiTest-x, MultiTest-d, Vortex, Vortex-i and others)
If you obtained your equipment directly from Mecmesin please email service@mecmesin.com or telephone +44 1403 799921 (01403 799921 in the UK).
If you obtained your equipment from your local distributor please contact that distributor, who will make the necessary arrangements.
Our system seems faulty and needs repair or is broken. Is there anything I should do before returning my system? (MultiTest, MultiTest-i, MultiTest-x or Vortex-i)
Before returning your system - please take the following steps:
i. Check your operating manual to see if your system is set up properly or if the answer is in the manual for your Emperor™ version.
ii. If you have another loadcell or power supply,, or PC power down and try these.This will determine where the problem lies.
iii. Contact your local Mecmesin distributor with as much detail as possible including the product type, serial number and software version. The problem may be resolved by upgrading Emperor™ or you may also be asked for a results file and a diagnostic report so it can be investigated.
iv. If you have a MultiTest-i, Vortex-i or MultiTest-x system it is very important when you contact your Mecmesin distributor with any problems that you give the exact error messages reported. We may also need details about the program and testing.
Is it necessary to calibrate an instrument after repair?
Yes. After any repair, all instruments are verified to check compliance to design specification and operational parameters. Any repair could have an effect on the instrument readings and, if returned without necessary adjustments and calibration, the readings displayed may be inaccurate.
Can Mecmesin verify product and issue UKAS (formerly NAMAS) certificates of calibration?
The certificates of calibration issued by our laboratory will give traceability to UK National Standards. UKAS certificates can be obtained by sub-contract agreements with selected laboratories that offer the best specification and service to meet our requirements. It is important to remember that there is no UKAS laboratory which can offer an adjustment service for any of the Mecmesin product range. If sent to such a laboratory for calibration and the readings are out of specification, the certificate will detail the results `as found`, or the UKAS laboratory will return the unit to us for adjustment and calibration.
Can I obtain spare parts for any Mecmesin product?
No. Spare parts and repair/service instructions are proprietary and will not be issued to third parties. Please contact your local distributor for details of your nearest Service Centre.
Can you verify the length readings of our MultiTest-d or MultiTest stand? Why don't we have a Length Certificate for our MultiTest-d or MultiTest?
The length tests are performed on the MultiTest-d or MultiTest stands to ensure the stand is in specification and recorded. We do not produce a Length Certificate for the MultiTest-d or MultiTest stands as a standard procedure.
The MultiTest-i and MultiTest-x range are supplied with a length certificate/verification.
Please note that in the case of twin column stands we supply a length verification rather than certification because we can't adjust the height.
Can you verify the speed of our Mecmesin motorised test stand? Why don't we have a Speed Certificate for our Mecmesin motorised test stand?
The speed tests are performed on Mecmesin motorised test stands to ensure the stand is in specification and recorded. The speed is only verified not certified. We do not produce a Speed Certificate for test stands as a standard procedure.
We have a Mecmesin test system composed of a stand, loadcell or force gauge or height scale; should they be verified/calibrated together? (MultiTest-i, MultiTest, MultiTest-x, MultiTest-d, Vortex or Vortex-i, AFG, BFG, Orbis, Tornado)
Mecmesin loadcells can be calibrated separately from the stand and so normally it is not necessary to return the stand when calibrating only the loadcell. This reduces transport costs and if you have more than loadcell means that testing can continue whilst one loadcell is being calibrated.
Mecmesin force gauges can also be calibrated separately from the stand.
Your quality system should dictate how often your stand needs length calibration.
It is advisable to test the complete system if you have an external height gauge or if the application warrants details of force at specific lengths. System designs and the limitations of mechanics will inevitably result in measurement errors due to the equipment deflecting under load. We are capable of recording such errors.
However some companies quality systems specify that the entire system must be calibrated together every time it is calibrated.
If you are returning your stand for length calibration please state this clearly on your paperwork.
If in doubt please speak with your local Mecmesin distributor. If there is a problem with your system we may in some circumstances ask for the loadcell and gauge to be sent back with the test stand.
What is the password for the Calibration and Service menu in Emperor™? (MultiTest-i, Snapshot-i, TC2i, Imperial, TMS-Pro and Vortex-i)
Customers do not need to use this menu, it is only used by Mecmesin Service Centres. Although the menu title is Calibration and Service you cannot calibrate an ILC/ITC using this menu.
Digital Force Gauges
(AFG, BFG, Orbis, Tornado) - What baud rate should I use? How do I set up communication with a PC?
Firstly, you will need the correct lead to connect your gauge. Secondly, the baud rate of the gauge and the PC need to match, The Advanced Force Gauge (AFG) can be set to various baud rates, please see your manual. The Orbis and Tornado are set to 9600. If you have the Basic Force Gauge (BFG) communicating in single mode this uses a baud rate of 9600. The BFG changes it`s baud rate when going into continuous transmit. The baud rates are 9600 in single transmit and 57600 baud in continuous transmit. (This is detailed in the latest manual , on p9).
Can we adjust our own force gauge?
No. The adjustment procedures and specialist equipment required to calibrate the Mecmesin product range is proprietary and will not be issued to third parties.
Can you tell me the polarity of the charger?
Male pin positive
How can I display results from a Mecmesin instrument on a printer?
How do I connect my force or torque gauge to a printer?
(AFG, BFG, Orbis, Tornado, MultiTest-x, MultiTest-d, Digimatic)
Both the instrument and printer will need to be set up correctly and using the correct cable.
For older units prior to 1993 an interface is required for Digimatic use.
There are instructions for the DP1-VR and Mahr printer in the Technical Library.
How do I upload data from my gauge to a PC via the RS232 interface (i.e. the serial port)?
The operating manual for your gauge will give you the basic information. RS232 connecting cables are available from stock if required. Our supplementary Technical Advice Note (TAN-1), provides detailed instructions, please go to to our Technical Library section.
I require a new battery charger/mains adaptor for my Mecmesin force gauge and I need to know the technical specification?
Battery chargers are available for sale and you should contact our Sales Department or your local distributor for prices. Please remember to specify the instrument type and plug configuration required (UK 3pin square, Euro 2pin round, or USA 2pin flat). Never connect a non-Mecmesin charger (such as a 9 V dc PP3 battery charger) to one of our instruments as serious damage could occur.
I would like to know more about the External Trigger feature available in your AFG range of digital force gauges?
This feature is used to "freeze" the main display of the Advanced Force Gauge (AFG) when an external signal is received. The AFG can be configured to freeze when going either low 1-0 (LO) or high 0-1 (HI). It is particularly useful for applications where an event occurs ..e.g. when testing a switch.
My instrument switches off after a fixed time. Can this function be altered?
Yes. Your operating manual will give details of how to alter or disable the instrument auto-off function.
We are getting an `Error 2` message on our Basic Force Gauge (BFG) or Compact Force Gauge (CFG) Mk4 gauge. There is no reference to this in my manual - what can I do?
This fault was due to the crystal not stabilising quick enough upon boot-up and then falsely triggering an NMI (Non-maskable Interrupt) routine.
CFG - the CFG is a non-serviceable gauge so you will need a replacement CFG.
BFG - you will need to return the BFG gauge for repair.
What should I do if I spill liquid on my force gauge?
Wipe the gauge with a towel, then move it, wipe all surfaces thoroughly, and let it dry naturally. Do not open the case or attempt to accelerate the drying process by applying heat. If subsequently the gauge fails to operate correctly, you will need to arrange for the instrument to be serviced; if you are not based in the UK, your local distributor will be able to arrange this. If the liquid spilt upon the gauge was not water, please advise what it was.
Why does my instrument display ‘OL-‘ continuously? (AFG, BFG, CFG and other gauges)
The ‘OL-‘ symbol is usually displayed when the instrument has suffered an irreversible overload and will need to be returned to your nearest Service Centre for investigation.
Why is it not necessary for me to send back my AFTI display when having my “Smart” load cell calibrated? Why is it not necessary for me to send back my upper display portion when having my Advanced Loadcell Cartridge (ALC) calibrated?
This is because Mecmesin employs a `ratiometric` technique which means it is not necessary to match-calibrate the ‘Smart’ sensor to a specific display.
Smart Interchangeability.
The ‘Smart’ transducers are fully interchangeable without the need for additional calibration of either the display or the transducer. Mecmesin use standard mV/V sensors in all its instruments. These sensors are subjected to an excitation voltage from the host display (either AFTI or AFG) and the signal is amplified.
Due to the ratiometric principle, when the amplified signal is converted from analogue to digital, the excitation voltage (also known as reference voltage) appears on both sides of the conversion equation and therefore cancels itself out – in real terms, the absolute value of the excitation voltage is unimportant to the conversion. Any components, which are not subject to the ratiometric principle, have been specified within the design brief to be high precision and their allowable deviation falls well within the accuracy tolerance of the instrument.
Door / gate testing to EN 12445 - my Microtronics impact force gauge returns four parameters, ‘dynamic force’, ‘static force’, ‘final force’ and ‘dynamic time’. What do these terms mean? (Blueforce/Speedforce)
(dynamic force). This is the maximum force observed within the time interval It provides an estimate of the maximum rate at which the kinetic energy developed by the closing door is released during the closing operation.
(static force) This is the average force from the end of the dynamic time until data acquisition stops, i.e. at 6s.
(final force) is the value of force measured at 5 secs.
(dynamic time). This is an estimate of the duration of the event which leads to the peak load being observed. In the simplest case, i.e. when the door does not ‘bounce’ significantly, it is the time interval between the load passing through 150N on the way up to the peak and the load falling below 150N on the way down from the peak. (However, if the load oscillates, then it is the time interval between the load passing through 150N on the way up to the peak and, within a time period of 0.75s, the final time that load falls below 150N.)
What is the maximum transfer rate from an AFG Mk4? What is the latency between the data being recorded and transmitted? (AFG Mk4, Orbis Mk2 Tornado Mk2)
Applies to the latest AFG Mk4 & TORNADO Mk2 Software Only.
The rate settings make no difference to the data transmission rates in the new software.
1. The maximum latency from request (e.g. receiving a ‘?’) to the start of data being transmitted is approximately 12ms, for both RS232 (all baud rates) and Digimatic. The data could be up to 20ms old before it is transmitted.
2. For RS232 transmission the maximum data rate depends on the format transmitted. If units and the sign are transmitted the data rate will be reduced as there is more to transmit.
At 9600, the guaranteed maximum rate is approximately 29Hz (continuous transmission function operates at 25Hz at this baud rate).
At 115200 this is increased to approximately 70Hz (continuous transmission function operates at 50Hz at this baud rate).
Note, however, that new data is only ‘available’ for transmission every 20ms, so sampling faster than 50Hz would result in the same data being repeated occasionally.
3. Determining the maximum data transmission rate for Digimatic is difficult as it depends greatly on the speed the connected Digimatic device can operate at (e.g. the Mahr printer can operate faster than some of the older Mitutoyo devices). From a Digimatic request to complete load transmission (regardless of connected device) takes a maximum of approximately 150ms. Therefore, theoretically, data could be transmitted approximately every 150ms (6.6Hz) if requested. If not requested, i.e. in continuous transmission mode, the transmission rate could be increased to a maximum of approximately 30Hz.
Is it possible to generate an overload signal in order to stop load increasing before the loadcell is damaged on the AFG or AFTI.
The AFG/AFTI series of instruments can send a flag to an external device at a given alarm point. Your AFG operating manual gives more information.
Please consider the matter of rate of increase of load. If you drive a loadcell into a solid object, the rate of increase of load will be nearly infinite, and no circuit will be able to respond sufficiently quickly to protect your loadcell.
We recommend that if your `true` overload point is, for example, 500N, you should start experimenting with loads much lower than this (perhaps 100N, depending on the rate of increase of load), then progressively increase this value until the peak actually observed is slightly less than the loadcell capacity.
I can't get Dataplot to work with my gauge, what can I do? (AFG,BFG,Orbis,Tornado)
1. Ensure you are using the correct cable with your gauge.
2. Try Factory Defaulting the gauge.
3. Check settings for comms are the same in Dataplot and your gauge.
4. Ensure you have the correct COM Port selected in Dataplot.
To take readings press "New Measurement" then "Start".
Dataplot is no longer sold and has now been replaced by Emperor™ Lite.
Important Note about AFG/AFTI Mk4 firmware v1.07 (I have an E-Err error message on my AFG Mk4 display with a Smart instrument connected).
If you are using AFG/AFTI Mk4 V1.07 we have found that this version of firmware causes Smart instruments to display E-Err if the Smart is also used with a AFG/AFTI Mk2.
The data can be restored by connecting the Smart to an AFG/AFTI Mk4 with V1.10. Please contact your local agent to upgrade the AFG/AFTI Mk4 gauge to V1.10 or later.
If you are not using the Smart with both an AFG/AFTI Mk4 v1.07 and an AFG/AFTI Mk2 this issue does not occur
Emperor™, Emperor™Lite and TL Pro Software
Emperor/TL Pro firmware Upgrade - how do I upgrade my firmware in Emperor/TL Pro? how do I load the correct firmware for my version of Emperor/TL Pro?
When upgraded Emperor and TL Pro will prompt you to upgrade your firmware if necessary.
If you need to perform a firmware upgrade using the installed firmware files please read below:
The firmware required for your present installation of Emperor or TL Pro is installed into your Emperor or TL Pro folder inside a folder called "Upgrade". For Emperor Force this is further divided into 2 folders - "MultiTest 1i, 2.5i & 5i" and "MultiTest 10i & 25i".
To upgrade your firmware using the installed files select Tools-Upgrade and click on Yes,I accept. Now navigate to the .bin file installed with Emperor/TL Pro and click on it. The firmware upgrade will now proceed through a number of stages finally informed you that the test stand has restarted.
VERY IMPORTANT: Ensure you select the correct firmware for your test stand type because Emperor will not prevent you from selecting incorrect firmware. If you load incorrect firmware then the test stand will behave erratically.
Can I run Emperor/TL Pro or Emperor Lite under Linux, MacOSX, Solaris or any other operating system? Can you run Emperor on Windows emulators or a 'virtual machine' on other operating systems? Why do I have to run Emperor/TL Pro or Emperor Lite under Windows?
Emperor is written for the Microsoft Windows operating system only because currently our software team's skill set focuses on using Windows to develop on.
Emperor/TL Pro or Emperor Lite should not be run on a Windows emulator or under a 'virtual machine'.
Running Emperor/TL Pro or Emperor Lite under Windows on a virtual machine or under any other form of emulation will cause problems as it needs to run in real-time with direct access to the hardware.
Apple Macs built over the last couple of years have a feature called Boot Camp where you can reboot the computer into Windows. In this case Windows is run normally on the computer. We believe in this situation that Emperor/TL Pro or Emperor Lite should run ok but we've not tested it.
Why can I send data directly to Excel only from Emperor? Can I use OpenOffice instead?
The 'Send to Excel' feature in Emperor/Emperor Lite takes advantage of 'COM' a component built into MS Office. Not to be confused with the '.COM' technology this 'COM' component is used to interact between MS Office programs including Excel.
Unfortunately this technique can not be used with OpenOffice as 'COM' is proprietary to Microsoft.
In future versions of Emperor/Emperor Lite the reporting will be improved and the report format made more open which will enable use with other programs.
Presently the only way to get the data into OpenOffice would be to either manually export the data (File-Export) or use the Results from Emperor/Emperor Lite and open the csv file in OpenOffice.
I am having problems with the Send to Excel feature, sending data to Excel or creating reports, help!
Firstly, upgrade to the latest version of Emperor as reporting has been improved in newer versions.
Secondly, check that if you are using files that come supplied with Emperor you are using them correctly.
Certain files are meant to be used with other files to demonstrate features.
The “Single page report.for” and “Multi page report.for” files installed with Emperor 1.17-015 refer to files stored in ...Emperor\Force\Reports\. The correct path should be ...Emperor\Force\Report\.
If you have any further problems please contact your Mecmesin agent with the Emperor result file (.for), the Excel spreadsheet and any screenshots to explain what you are doing.
My Start button is greyed out in Emperor Lite, what can I do?
Check license key is recognised.
Check correct COM port is selected.
What number of decimal places does Emperor/TL Pro/Emperor Lite use for Standard Units? Why don't my calculations display correctly? When passed to Excel my readings appear to be different, why?
Please check the number of decimal places used for the particular unit you have selected in Emperor. Emperor unit check list
My Emperor Lite dongle appears to install properly and lights up but it says License key not present on the splash screen. What do I do?
If Emperor Lite is started with a working dongle it will display "License key present" then after a few seconds it will go to the Master/Operator Login screen.
Check if the driver appears under the USB section of Device Manager.
If it doesn't then there has been a problem with installing the driver.
If this is ok there is a problem with the dongle.
Try the dongle in a different USB port and if possible check on another PC.
If the dongle is found to be faulty please contact your Mecmesin agent to get it replaced.
How do I Make a Diagnostic Report in Emperor™ or TL Pro? (Send Diagnostic Report)
Under the Tools menu is an option called `Make Diagnostic Report`.
In versions 1.15-0018 onwards this operates in two different ways:
1. When the Internet Access checkbox under the System setup is ticked then Emperor™ will attempt to use your email client to send the email to Mecmesin.
2. When the Internet Access checkbox under the System setup is not ticked the Emperor™ will prompt the user by opening a Save As dialog box so the diagnostic report can be saved to file.
In version 1.13-002 only the email option is offered. If the user needs to get the diagnostic report they will need to get it from their Outbox.
I am having problems with greyed out menus in Emperor™. (MultiTest-i, TMS-Pro Vortex-i and TC2i)
Try starting Emperor™ as Master operator.
I have a Quantrol i-series test stand (either Snapshot-i or TC2-i) which is controlled by `the i-software` supplied by Dillon-WeighTronix; is this i-software the same as Emperor™?
The Dillon Quantrol i-software is, in effect, the Mecmesin Emperor™ software. Support issues and upgrades for the USA and Canada are now being handled via Mecmesin Corporation (Tel: +001 631-696-4122).
I have an Emperor™/TL Pro-controlled system (MultiTest-i, TMS-Pro,Vortex-i, Imperial, TC2i or Snapshot-i). What is the position regarding software upgrades?
There are two versions of Emperor™ - Force and Torque:
The Force version is for the Emperor™ controlled force machines.
The Torque version is for our Vortex-i stand only.
TL Pro is solely for use with the TMS-Pro test stand.
Please contact your local Mecmesin distributor who will be able to supply you with your upgrade.
I have forgotten my password for Emperor™/TL Pro, what can I do? (What is the override password in Emperor™/TL Pro?)
The override password for Master mode in Emperor™ is `red-cross`.
This can be used to open Emperor™ when the password is not known or forgotten.
Once in Emperor™ use Setup-Access to change the password to the required password.
If you have problems with this password then use the alternative method below:
i. Make sure you have made a backup of the C:/Program Files/Emperor™/ folder.
ii. Then try uninstalling Emperor™ and reinstalling it.
iii. This will leave any new user files in the Emperor™ program folder but should reset the password to the default blank for Master.
I have installed Emperor™/TL Pro on my laptop PC and am using this to control my Imperial / MultiTest-i / TMS-Pro / Vortex-i test stand. Sometimes the error message `No response from test stand` is displayed.
This message appears when Emperor™/TL Pro is left open with no activity for some time. It can happen if your COM port goes into power save. The remedy in this case is to plug in your laptop`s mains adaptor. If that is not an option ask your IT manager to re-configure the BIOS so that, when power gets low the last thing to close down is the RS232 port.
In the Gauge Emulator module of Emperor™, if I try to drive the crosshead of my test stand, by clicking on one of the green arrow keys, the message `Tachometer error` is displayed.
Please check the number of green LEDs which are illuminated on the front panel of your test stand; if only two are illuminated, there is a problem with the key switch on the
back panel of your stand.
The key-slot must, for normal operation, be in the vertical position. Return the key-slot to the horizontal position. Alll four green LEDs should now be illuminated, and your system should now operate normally?
We suggest that this key is removed and stored away in a safe place. You will never need it unless your Mecmesin distributor advises you to use it to resolve a fault condition.
Is it possible to export the raw test data from an Emperor™/TL Pro-controlled MultiTest-i or Vortex-i system so that the data can be made available within another software package? (Imperial, TC2i or Snapshot-i)
Once a test has been completed, data can be exported in ASCII format from Emperor™ by selecting the ‘Export’ option from the ‘File’ menu, choosing a delimiter (tab or comma), choosing a path and filename, and clicking on [Save]. The file saved can be imported into your software by selecting either the *.txt, or *.csv format.
Exporting the raw test data during a test is not an option.
We have a Dillon TC2i/Snapshot-i, Imperial 1000 or Imperial 2500, Vortex-i or MultiTest-i.
What happens if I need to upgrade my Emperor™ PC software?
The Imperials are part of Mecmesin`s computer controlled stand range. The Snapshot-i and TC2i are rebadged Imperial 1000 and Imperial 2500.
The Emperor™ Force software is backwardly compatible with all these stands and the MultiTest-i.
The Emperor™ Torque software is backwardly compatible with all Vortex-i stands.
If the stand is repaired it is normally used with the latest version of Emperor™. If you wish to continue using an older version of Emperor™ with your stand you will need to use the Tools-Upgrade feature of Emperor™ to downgrade your stand firmware.
Conversely if you install a newer version of Emperor™ you may need to upgrade the stand firmware for it to operate with the newer Emperor™.
When I carry out a test using Emperor™/TL Pro software, occasionally testing stops prematurely and the message `Test Stand Data Buffer Overflow` is displayed. What can I do? (MultiTest-i, TMS-Pro, Vortex-i, Imperial, Snapshot-i & TC2i)
This message appears when Emperor™/TL Pro struggles to collect all the data from the test stand and can occur even on faster computers. Generally most modern computers are faster enough to run Emperor™/TL Pro without a problem. It is important that you have enough RAM in your computer.
This warning message mostly happens when a USB converter is set up incorrectly so there are a number of ways to reduce the chance of a 'data buffer overflow' occurring:
1. Use a direct RS-232 connection in preference to using the USB converter. A USB converter adds extra complexity to the set-up.
2. Ensure the latency for the USB converter is set correctly to 1ms (default is 16ms in XP). This must be set for the current COM port that the USB converter uses. Please note as USB is hot-swappable the COM port selected can also change. Any COM port selected by the USB converter must have its latency set correctly.
3. Ensure the correct driver for the USB converter is used. The Mecmesin supplied USB converters come with a mini CD-ROM containing the driver. This driver must be used and ensure correct use.
If you do not have the driver software please use the latest executable for Virtual COM Port (or VCP) drivers from the FTDI website.
4. Turn all other programs off. This means any software that can interrupt Emperor™/TL Pro – Outlook, virus checkers, firewalls, and any software that uses ports.
5. If the latency is set correctly for your currently used COM port then another program that is running is the next most likely cause of the problem.
6. Sending too many messages from Emperor™ to the test stand on some pCs can cause this message.
7. When Autoscale is used on slow computers it can cause Emperor™ to pause and thus cause this message. Try turning Autoscale off.
8. Finally use the Clear Data and Clear Graph commands to get rid off unwanted data which will speed up screen redrawing.
The message `Motor drive has been disabled` is displayed and I can't connect to my stand, What can I do? (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, TMS Pro)
1. Do you have the latest version of Emperor™/TL Pro? Your Mecmesin distributor will be able to supply upgrade software if necessary.
2. Check that all four green LEDs on the Control Panel of your test stand are illuminated. Turn the keyswitch is necessary then remove it.
3. Turn off stand to check that the ILC (intelligent loadcell) is connected properly. If necessary remove plug and then screw back in firmly.
4. Check the test stand is connected securely and the correct COM port is selected in Emperor™.
5. Try closing Emperor™/TL Pro and restarting Windows. Try to reconnect.
6. Perform a firmware upgrade with your version of Emperor™/TL Pro. Make sure you use the firmware correct for your stand type.
Why are some menus greyed out although I started Emperor™ in Master operational mode? (Emperor™, MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, Imperial, Snapshot-i & TC2i)
There is a bug in some versions of Emperor™ that when Emperor is first opened in Master mode some menus are still greyed out.
To fix this problem either:
a. Go to Setup-Access, click on the Operator radio button.
Now click back onto the Master radio button and press OK to leave dialog box.
b. Load in a library or result file.
c. Run a program.
Within the Gauge Emulator module of Emperor™ software when I drive the crosshead by clicking on one of the yellow arrow keys on the control panel of the test stand, the message `PID overflow too many times` is displayed.
Please check the number of green LEDs which are illuminated on the front panel of your test stand; if only two are illuminated, you need to turn the key switch on the back panel of your stand.
The key-slot must, for normal operation, be in the vertical position. If the key-slot is in the horizontal position, return it to the vertical position. Alll four green LEDs should now be illuminated, and your system should now operate normally.
We suggest that this key is removed and stored away in a safe place. You will never need it unless your Mecmesin distributor advises you to use it to resolve a fault condition.
Newer stands or serviced stand do not have the keyswitch. Instead the firmware allows a short manual jog and automatically moves back 5mm when the limit switch is hit.
I am having problems with Emperor™ or TL Pro (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, Imperial, TMS-Pro, Snapshot-i or TC2i), What do I do?
1. Please check you have the correct manual for your version and see if this answers your question.
2. Contact your Mecmesin distributor to check you have the latest version of Emperor™. The problem you are having may be something that has been fixed in a newer version.
2. Does your stand or ILC need calibrating?
3. When does it happen and how do you replicate the problem?
4. Serial numbers (both stand and ILC/ITC) and some test file examples.
5. Send the diagnostic report.
Emperor™ (or TL Pro) and Vista compatibility (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i) (I am having problems using Emperor™ or TL Pro with Windows Vista).
Although earlier versions of Emperor™ (or TL Pro) can be made to work with Vista using compatibility mode, Emperor™ versions 1.15-018 onwards have been fully tested with Windows Vista.
Depending on how Vista is set up it`s extra security features may affect Emperor™. This may affect the installation or the consequence running of Emperor™. For example Vista may disallow Emperor™ to create files in certain folders.
If you are having problems:
Firstly check that you are running the installer as an Administrator.
Secondly check that the User Account Control is turned off.
Please check with your IT department before changing your computer`s configuration as it should be done according to your company`s IT policies.
Does Emperor™ and Emperor Lite work on Windows Server systems? (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, Imperial, Snapshot-i & TC2i)
The official answer is Yes as long as your IT system is not relying 100% on it.
However we don`t advise use on Server machines due to the demands placed on the machines and the nature of other software running on these systems.
1 Server systems run many different programs constantly interrupting the CPU.
This can cause problems with running Emperor™ as it gets interrupted too often.
2 Programs on a `server` run in the background.
Again this could cause problems with Emperor™ as it isn`t serviced as often as on a `desktop` computer.
3 In the event of a problem with running an Emperor™ program Emperor™ or your server may need to be shutdown. This could require an administrator login or it may just not be possible.
4 A limited log in account would be required for Emperor™ on a server.
A limited account may restrict many of the functions in Emperor™ and restrict file access.
It is very very bad practice to log into a server with an administrator login for any other reason than making quick administrative changes as it puts your IT system at risk.
5 Unnecessary extra overheads.
If the server is part of your IT system running Emperor™ could cause extra overheads that affect it’s efficiency as a `server`.
Our keyswitch has been removed from our stand, how do we now manually jog it if we need to?
My keyswitch has been removed how do I move my stand?
(TMS-Pro, Imperial 1000, Imperial 2500, MultiTest-i, Vortex-i and TC2i.)
When a stand with a keyswitch is repaired the keyswitch is removed as it is no longer part of the design used in the Emperor™/TL Pro controlled systems.
To operate the jog buttons without a keyswitch you need to use the firmware supplied with Emperor™ 1.15-018 onwards.
The stand firmware is upgraded for you to the latest firmware by the service engineer. The jog function is now restricted to short 5mm bursts and if the limit switch is triggered the stand automatically backs off by 5mm from it.
We recommend only using the jog buttons in emergency. For full control use Emperor™ because it checks for overloads and other conditions crucial to the system's health.
How do I activate the jog buttons on the Vortex-i /MultiTest-i/TC2i/Snapshot-I system?
The jog buttons work in Emperor™ but the jog buttons on the stand don't seem to function, what can I do?
The LEDs light when the relevant jog button is pressed but the stand doesn't move, what can I do?
1. You may have an older Emperor™/TL Pro controlled stand with a keyswitch design.
The serial number and Emperor™ version number would confirm this.
The older stands were designed with a keyswitch for emergency use only and the relevant firmware to allow it's operation. Turning this keyswitch will enable the jog buttons.
2. Newer firmware has removed the necessity for an emergency keyswitch.
On the Vortex-i the newer firmware allows you to only jog in short bursts.
On the force stands the newer firmware allows you to jog in short bursts and when the limit switch is hit the crosshead will automatically back off by 5mm.
Ensuring you have the latest version of Emperor™ and performing a firmware update should enable you to use the jog buttons without requiring a keyswitch. We recommend only using the jog buttons in emergency. For full control use Emperor™ because it checks for overloads and other conditions crucial to the system's health.
3. If the LED next to the jog button lights but the stand doesn't move check that the ILC/ITC is plugged in firmly. The stand will not operate normally if the loadcell/sensor is not present.
Please contact your local Mecmesin distributor for the latest version of Emperor™ or if you need further help.
My calculations/summary in Emperor™/Emperor™ Lite/TL Pro has disappeared from the top of the screen, what do I do? (MultiTest-i/Vortex-i/TC2i/Snapshot-i)
The summary view at the top shows the calculations. It can be turned on and off by selecting Display-Summary View.
If this doesn't show the Summary View it may be that you need to make sure it is turned on and then drag the bar normally at the bottom of the Summary View to show the contents.
What is a Dillon TC2i/Snapshot-i, Imperial 1000 or Imperial 2500?
The Imperial range - Imperial 1000 & Imperial 2500 were based on old frames styles and are no longer made by Mecmesin. They have been replaced by the MultiTest 1i and MultiTest 2.5i.
The Snapshot-i and TC2i were rebadged Imperial 1000 and Imperial 2500 for the Dillon brand.
Can I use Emperor™ with other brands of test equipment?
Can I control my MultiTest-i or Vortex-i with other software?
Emperor™ is designed for use solely with Mecmesin stands. The communications protocol used is proprietary to Mecmesin. The MultiTest-i and Vortex-i cannot be controlled with other software.
Please contact your local Mecmesin distributor because they can help with your application or suggest alternative setups. For example the MultiTest-x has PLC functionality.
What character does Emperor™ Lite use to request data from an instrument? (AFG/AFTI/BFG/Tornado/Orbis/MultiTest-d/Vortex-d/Digicon-x)
Emperor™ Lite data request characters:
"?" character is used to request a single data reading from an instrument e.g. Load from an AFG or another gauge.
"Ctrl-A" character is used to request a double data reading from an instrument e.g. Load & Displacement from a MultiTest-d.
Emperor™ Lite uses "?" for following products AFG, AFTI, BFG, TORNADO and ORBIS.
Emperor™ Lite uses "Ctrl-A" for following products MultiTest-d, Vortex-d and Digicon-x.
Cannot run to a ... load in a direction that will ... the torsional load
Cannot run to a ... tensile load in a direction that will ... the tensile load (Emperor™, Vortex-i, MultiTest-i)
All of these messages can be interpreted as follows -
"This doesn't seem logical to Emperor™ - You are asking to run to a load in the wrong direction because you have passed that load!"
Use Emperor Torque in Clockwise mode or Emperor™ Force in Tension mode for the examples below:
1. Cannot run to a lower torsional load in a direction that will increase the torsional load
If we want to run to 0.5Nm @ 5 rev/min and there is already a load of 0.55Nm. When run you will get "Cannot run to a lower torsional load in a direction that will increase the torsional load".
2. Cannot run to a higher torsional load in a direction that will decrease the torsional load
If we want to run to -0.5Nm at -5 rev/min and there is already a load of -0.55Nm. When run you will get "Cannot run to a higher torsional load in a direction that will decrease the torsional load message".
3. Cannot run to a lower tensile load in a direction that will increase the tensile load
If we want to run to 5N at 5mm/min and there is already a load of 5.5N. When run you will get "Cannot run to a lower tensile load in a direction that will increase the tensile load message".
4. Cannot run to a higher tensile load in a direction that will decrease the tensile load
If we want to run to -5N at -5mm/min and there is already a load of -5.5N. When run you will get "Cannot run to a higher tensile load in a direction that will decrease the tensile load message".
When taring off the load make sure you read the Load Reading from the Load box in the middle of the screen. The Total Load is a non-tared absolute load reading used to predict overload.
A second factor can also cause these errors - the sensor tolerance, the following explains why -
Although you zero`d or tared the load before running a small residue load may be enough for Emperor to display the message `... Cannot run to ...`.
This is because the residue load puts the load read on the wrong side of the target value.
To avoid any of these messages you need to adjust the target load -
Required Target Load = Target Load + or - Tolerance of Sensor.
For example Required Target Load = 0.5 + 0.0015Nm = 0.4985Nm when running to 0.5Nm at 5 rev/min.
(The tolerance for a 1.5Nm ITC torque sensor is 0.0015Nm).
In practice you could get away with running to a smaller load than this because a loadcell within tolerance will not generally swing all the way to its tolerance limits.
However adding the quoted tolerance will definitely make sure a message doesn’t appear.
To resolve any of these errors take the following steps:
a. Start with an unloaded system.
b. Try a lower or higher value target load.
c. Tare the load before starting.
d. Run to a target load that takes into account the ILC/ITC tolerance (Target = Value +/- Tolerance).
When I start Emperor™/TL Pro it prompts me with 'Loadcell not calibrated, do you wish to calibrate'
What is the calibration password I need to use? (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, TMS-Pro)
This error happens after a new installation when the DLL files are not overwritten properly.
Please uninstall Emperor™/TL Pro and reinstall. This will ensure that the files are installed properly.
Customers will not need the Service and Calibration password it is only required by Mecmesin authorised service personnel.
What’s User Account Control (UAC) in Windows Vista?
Why do I need to turn UAC off to install Emperor™/TL Pro?
How do I turn UAC off?
'User Account Control' tries to cover a security flaw that exists because Windows has always made it too easy for everyday users to run as an Administrator user. As an Adminstrator any program can run or anything can be changed, if a virus or trojan runs or there is a mistake made there is nothing to prevent it.
The UAC basically stop many of the rights that Local Adminstrators (not Domain Administrators) from happening.
Anyway it needs to be turned off to install Emperor™/TL Pro and perhaps whilst they run because it prevents programs installing and may hinder some of their other functionality.
To turn UAC off open the Control Panel.
Click on Add or remove user accounts under User Accounts and Family Safety.
Select any user account and Go to main User Accounts page.
Change security settings.
In the next screen uncheck the box next to 'Use User Account Control (UAC) to help protect your computer'. Press Ok.
You will be prompted to restart the computer.
Why can't I enter a stiffness for my ILC/ITC in Emperor™/TL Pro? Why isn't my stiffness value saving? (Loadcell Deflection Compensation)
In System Setup-Loadcell Deflection you can't set a stiffness value for an ILC/ITC.
A new Stiffness value for an ILC/ITC cannot be entered when results are present in Emperor™.
The stiffness can only be altered when Emperor™/TL Pro does not warn the user when the stiffness is not saved. In this situation you will find the value unchanged when you return to the stiffness menu. This will be fixed in a future release.
The value can be changed by typing over the present value and pressing OK. An ILC/ITC can only be removed from the list in Emperor™/TL Pro when it is not connected to the stand that Emperor is connected to.
When trying to get a calculation in Emperor™/TL Pro at a certain force/torque, displacement or time I get a result of N/A. What do I need to do? (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, Snapshot-i, TC2i, TMS-pro)
This is most common when you are using the Loadcell Deflection Compensation on an Emperor™/TL Pro system. You will need to travel slightly past the load, force/torque or time at which you wish to perform any calculations. Failure to do this will result in N/A.
For example when using LDC on your system and a calculation of the force at 10mm needs to be displayed, you must pass 10mm (in a torque situation - angle). Otherwise it will display N/A. The same is true to a calculation is required for the displacement at 12N (or torque), you will need to pass 12N by a small amount.
This is because the compensation factor is applied to the full set of data after the test is finished and so affects the calculations.
If you are using a calculation with an order make sure the order entered is correct or for the overall highest/lowest use 0. For example with Peak an order of 1 gives the first peak but this might not be the maximum peak. A Peak with an order of 0 gives the maximum overall peak. If the order you've selected doesn't exist you will also get a N/A.
Emperor™ Lite won't work, it won't allow me to start acquisition or Test Communication, what can I do?
It is either because you have the incorrect COM port settings or the Licence Key is not present.
- Check COM port and baud rate is correct
- Close Emperor™ Lite
- Install the security key
- Restart Emperor™ Lite
- Test Communications in Emperor™ Lite
If this doesn't work try logging into Emperor™ Lite as Master.
I have accidently overwritten my library file/s, can I revert to the old version/s? (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, Imperial, TC2i, Snapshot-i, Emperor™, Emperor™ Lite, TL Pro)
Unfortunately you cannot. However we advise that you set your library files to 'Read Only' to prevent accidently overwriting them and back up all your user files from the Emperor™/Emperor™ Lite/TL Pro folder on a regular basis.
How do I display the Load or Displacement/Angle when my switch is open or closed? (Emperor™, Event Input, MultiTest-i, Vortex-i, TC2i or Snapshot-i)
The VALUE calculation can be used to view the reading at either an OPEN or CLOSED event.
The VALUE command has similar criteria to the Peak command where the order is used to select which ocuurence you want. The Value parameter in the command can be set to open or close. Select Event as the criteria for X and then select angle/displacement, load or time.
Also you can view the Event in the raw data or Data Blocks. In the Display-Data Blocks the Open Event is 0 and Closed is 1. If the switch is Open (0) when the test is started, then the first order Open will be after the switch has been closed and reopened.
I have the message 'PC Comms watchdog has timed out. Allowing limited access, what should I do? (Emperor™, Vortex-i, MultiTest-i, Snapshot-i, TC2i)
This message appears in 3 situations:
i. Emperor™ is left open with nothing happening. This is normally the most common cause.
ii. Other software competing with Emperor™ for resources - for example a virus checker may run causing problems with Emperor™.
iii. A fault on the computer or a slow computer could also intefere with Emperor's™ operation.
Please close Emperor™ and all other programs. Reopen Emperor™ and try again.
Emperor™ doesn't appear to perform my calculation in DO SUM properly. Emperor™ gives me the wrong results what can I do? (MultiTest-i and Vortex-i, subtract, minus)
There is a bug when using DO SUM calculations containing more than one variable and a subtraction. This will be fixed in Version 1.17-nn versions of Emperor™.
Even with DO SUM as simple as (v1+v8)-V6 the V6 part is not subtracted. You need to break this into 2 lines DO SUM V20=V1+V8 then DO SUM V20-V6. The subtraction will then be successful.
When I drop cursers in Emperor™ Torque some of my readings for the angle are zero, but they shouldn't be according to what I can see on the graph. What should I do? (Vortex-i)
This happens under some circumstances in older versions of Emperor™ Torque. First come out of the graph screen, then go back in and try the curser drop again or try a different position if acceptable.
If this is still an issue please contact your local distributor who will upgrade you to the latest version of Emperor™ Torque.
Extensometer Jump Detected, Extensometer Failure, Tachometer Failure, PID Overflow, Motor Deceleration Failure, what should I do?
All the Emperor™ controlled stands use two encoders to determine if the stand is operating correctly. Mecmesin call these the extensometer and the tachometer.
The Extensometer Jump Detected message means the extensometer on the top is receiving too many counts. (Service personnel can set the Extenso Source to Tachometer for diagnostic purposes. If this message appears when set to Tachometer, this means there is a probelm around the Tachometer).
The Extensometer Failure and Tachometer Failure mean there is something wrong with the relevent encoder or its connections.
PID Overflow and Motor Deceleration failure could be related to the tachometer or the motor.
Due to the increased number of counts involved all these messages will be more noticable at faster speeds. Do Not try changing anything on your stand.
If any of these messages are persistent please contact your local Mecmesin distributor for them to service your test stand.
Can I name my samples?
Can I give my samples a unique identifier?
Emperor allows for Batch identifier in the Notes and by default the samples are named Sample 1, Sample 2, etc.
For extra flexibility the ENTER and VARIABLE commands can be used.
In the program the ENTER command can prompt the user to enter a string and this can then be stored into a variable.
The value can then be displayed in the calculations using the VARIABLE command. As the prompt will happen each time the test is run this can be used to enter a name for that sample.
In Emperor 1.17-015 a command called SET has been added to the program commands.
If there is a variable which applies to the whole batch of tests and you do not want the operator to use the ENTER command before every test, you can use the SET command. Using the SET command requires data to be entered only once and saves the operator time. Again using the VARIABLE command this can be displayed in the calculations.
MultiTest-x Test Systems
When I turn my stand on it is not remembering the correct displacement/position setting, what can I do?
Unfortunately the MultiTest-x stand may do this very occasionally. If this happens we advise that you reset the ‘Absolute Zero’ setting (the zero position used for absolute readings) on the test stand. This is done by running the manual Touch function from the 0 button on the front panel.
(MultiTest-x) When I set the value for SegB to 0 the stand performs SegA of the test but just seems to continue on running. What is happening?
Entering 0 for the value in SegB causes the program to run to break. I.e. it doesn`t run to zero force, distance or time but continues running until another factor finishes the test.
How do I perform a Firmware upgrade for a MultiTest-x?
Mecmesin can upgrade your MultiTest-x but please note that:
1. Mecmesin can not be held responsible for any consequences arising if any non-Mecmesin staff perform the upgrade.
2. The upgrade will erase all current settings on the stand.
3. The instructions to perform the firmware upgrade must be followed carefully.
3. You will require a Windows PC and a RS232 lead to connect to the test stand.
How do I use a standard ASCII printer with my MultiTest-x?
You need to set the MultiTest-x to TERM protocol in the Print Menu and the printer needs to be set to ASCII. You also need to use a standard 1-1 RS 232 cable with all it`s pins connected.
My MultiTest-x says DS ERR:LDRG JOGUP or DS ERR:JOGDN which states that it is overloaded, what can I do?
If the Local Overload setting on a MultiTest-x is not set correctly then this message can appear. The Local Overload setting is used to protect the loadcell but stopping the stand when the value is exceeded.
Please try changing the value of the Local Overload if this message is appearing but you believe it should not.
If the message still appears it could be caused by other factors: the XLC is not connected properly, there is a problem with the XLC cable or the XLC has been overloaded.
If there is a problem with the XLC cable or the XLC has been overloaded the XLC must be sent to your local Mecmesin distributor for investigation.
My MultiTest-x takes a long time to display results after a test, what can I do to speed it up?
There are two things you can do.
The first is to turn off any unrequired calculations so you only have the calculations you need.
The second is to reduce the sample rate in the Log Rate to as low as rate as possible. Note that this means readings are not taken as quickly, if the Log Rate is too low a peak reading could be missed.
Your local Mecmesin distributor will be able to advise the best sample rate for an application.
We appear to be stuck in a menu on our MultiTest-x, we can`t change or do anything?
It sounds like you have the Supervisor OFF. In this mode the user can`t change the program settings. You can view but not change settings.
If you are `stuck` in a menu press ENT to leave the menu.
If you need to change something, turn the Supervisor ON (you will need the password), make the change and turn the Supervisor OFF again. Instructions can be found in the MultiTest-x Operating Manual.
We are using the FHT calculation on a MultiTest-x but the results are different from results taken using a height scale.
The FHT calculation depends on a number of factors which can affect the reading given.
Firstly, the FHT is calculated from the Absolute Zero and from the Touch at the start of the program run. It therefore depends on setting the Absolute Zero by performing a manual Touch from the console.
The factors affecting the FHT measurement are:
1. Threshold.
2. Resolution of the XLC.
3. Touch manually (speed and load variables).
4. Absolute Zero (set by manual touch).
5. Touch in program (speed and load variables).
The MultiTest-x Operating Manual has more detailed information about each of these factors.
We have a ‘T’ or ‘C’ on our MultiTest-x display and the load appears to not read properly, does not tare off or is stuck at a load value. How do we remove it?
This is a function that was not implemented fully in earlier versions of the firmware and so has now been removed.
If the ‘4’ button is pressed on the console it cycles through displaying ‘T’ then ‘C’ then disappears. So if you have 'C 'on the display press 4 once to get rid of it. If you have 'T' press 4 twice to get rid of it.
Whilst a 'T' or 'C' is on the screen the load reading appears to be frozen.
This issue has been corrected in v0.4i onwards.
What does the Diagnostic menu on MultiTest-x do?
The diagnostic menu on the MultiTest-X displays a reading for the ADC counts and the encoder position.
However we strongly advise customers not to access this menu as it is no longer used by Mecmesin.
What is the maximum time I can test or loadhold test on the MultiTest-x?
The MultiTest-x accepts the value 9999999.00 sec (166666.65 min) (2777.7775 hr) (115.7407297 days) for the time. It could be dangerous to attempt a loadhold for this long.
You can have a maximum of 65563 secs of log time
=1092.72 mins=18.2119 hrs.
This is the maximum amount of data you can record.
After this the buffer will be full and the data lost.
So the answer is 18.2119 hrs is the longest feasible time a test can last if all the data needs to be recorded.
Any calculations from this will take some time though.
Why do I get an `L` or `H` after my results on my MultiTest-x?
Why do I get DS PASS or DS FAIL after my results even when limits are not set?
When the limits are set on the results an `L` will appear if the result is below the lower limit and an `H` if the result is above the upper limit.
DS PASS is displayed if all results are within the pass band otherwise DS FAIL is displayed.
If any analysis results are turned on the MultiTest-x always shows a DS FAIL or DS PASS on screen because any limits are used.
My XLC doesn't seem to read correctly, my XLC reading fluctuates, my stand is not behaving normally, the stand seems to reset, the screen is flashing, what should I do?
Check with your Mecmesin distributor that your XLC is not damaged. If possible try another XLC to confirm there is a problem with that XLC.
Why doesn`t my MultiTest-x stand work/operate with Emperor™ Lite?
Emperor™ Lite is designed to work with the MultiTest-x stand but both the stand and Emperor™ Lite need to be set up properly.
For most Mecmesin products the `Test Communication` button can be used to check if Emperor™ Lite and the product are set up correctly. However as the MultiTest-x is designed to send but not receive data this can not be used with the MultiTest-x and so in Emperor™ Lite this button is greyed out when MultiTest-x is selected.
1. Set Emperor™ Lite instrument to MultiTest-x.
(Setup-System Setup-System Settings.)
2. Set Emperor™ Lite Primary data input to COM n.
(Setup-System Setup-System Settings.) *
3. Set Emperor™ Lite baud rate to qq.
(Setup-System Setup-System Settings.)
4. On MultiTest-x set to baud qq.
(Print Menu-Options.)
5. On MultiTest-x set the protocol as WCP not TERM.
(Print Menu-Options.)
6. Set the latency for the USB converter to 1ms.
(Device Manager.)
qq is the baud rate. (Emperor™ Lite baud = MultiTest-x baud)
n is the COM port number.
*If using a USB-Serial converter the COM port must be the COM port picked in the Device Manager as `USB Serial Port`.
The MultiTest-x needs to be set to WCP mode. If it is not set to WCP nothing will happen when used with Emperor™ Lite.
(If you are using a terminal program like Hyperterminal to test communications the MultiTest-x needs to be set to TERM mode and then changed back to WCP for use with Emperor™ Lite.)
Why doesn't Sample Break work, my test is stopping. What can I do?
The Sample Break on the MultiTest-x is entered in the Acquisition Menu as a % break. A value of 100 turns it off. For the Sample Break condition to stop a test the load needs to fall by the given % from the current peak at any moment. For example, if the force is reading 5N and drops below 2.5N this would trigger a 50% sample break and stop the test.
Two other variables affect the Sample Break - Log Rate and Threshold.
Log Rate
The Log Rate is the stand's sampling rate. If set too low a drop in the load that could trigger the break could be missed. If set too high the calculations will take longer and the stand can run out of memory during a test ('XA' or 'XB').
Threshold
The Threshold setting is the load value which needs to be exceeded before data is recorded. Before the Threshold is reached a 'TA' or 'TB' is displayed. If this is set to 0N or too low with a Sample Break set then the test may stop before required. This is because very low readings can register a sample break with a very small change. For example if the force reading is 0.01N and drops to 0.00N this would trigger a 90% sample break. It is common to set the Threshold to the tolerance of the XLC.
Miscellaneous
How do I clean my Mecmesin product, gauge, test stand? What alcohols can I use to clean it?
When cleaning the keypad care must be taken to avoid liquids, especially alcohols, seeping around the edge of the membrane. Therefore we recommend the use of a lightly dampened cloth to avoid liquid spillage onto the membrane.
How do I read the Mecmesin serial numbering?
How old, or when was my gauge, test stand, sensor or loadcell built?
The Mecmesin Serial Number uses the following format:
nn-nnnn-nn e.g. 07-1083-06
The year of manufacture is the first two digits = 07 (2007)
The next four digits are the amount of instruments made in that month, prefixed with:
0nnn = gauges
1nnn = test stands
2nnn = smarts
Finally the month of manufacture is the last two digits = 06 (June)
So the example serial number is a test stand built in June 2007
What is the temperature operating range of Mecmesin force and torque equipment?
The operating temperature for all verified Mecmesin “standard” product is 10°C to 35°C but the calibration accuracy is only valid between 18°C to 22°C.
Are other speed variations available for Mecmesin motorised test stands?
Yes they can be made as a customised version.
Can Mecmesin test stands be produced with greater travel?
Yes they can be made as a customised version.
At what temperature does the thermal switch (305-046) in the MulitTest 2.5 stand operate?
The temperature that the switch activates at is 70°C. This is the temperature at which the switch closes turning the fan ON. It will alllow open turning the fan OFF at a lower temperature of 55°C so that it allows the system to be cooled down sufficiently as not to trigger it inot activating again too quickly.
I need a customised accessory, can you help?
Mecmesin application engineers have unrivalled experience in designing and developing special fixturing for testing particular products. If you are in the UK please contact Mecmesin directly on +44 (0) 1403 799979 or info@mecmesin.com, otherwise please ask your local distributor to contact Mecmesin with your requirements.
I want to measure forces typically up to 85 or 90N, so I need a force gauge with a capacity of 100N, don’t I?
That depends! A force gauge is a delicate instrument which can be irreversible damaged if too great an overload is applied. The golden rule is ‘when in doubt, opt for a larger capacity force gauge’. A 100N AFG has an accuracy of ±0.1N, if it is really critical for you to be sure that, for example, the difference between readings of 86.4N and 86.7N is significant, and, if you are sure that a load above 100N is most unlikely to be applied to the gauge, then you probably do need to choose an instrument with a 100N capacity.
The speed at which the test is performed is also crucial. When running faster it is easier to overload the gauge.
However under most circumstances we would advise considering the 250N instrument, which has an accuracy of ±0.25N. Not only would this be perfectly suitable as a basis for concluding that, for example, the difference between a reading of 86.2N and 86.9N is significant, it would also provide some margin if loads well over 100N, or even 200N, were encountered.
Can I use an instrument of a higher capacity with a test stand of a lower rating?
For safety reasons never use any instrument with a capacity rated above that of the test stand.
The MultiTest-x console and systems used with Emperor™ will restrict the maximum capacity automatically to which ever is the lowest value out of Max Load Preference (or Local Overload), Stand capacity or the ILC/ITC/XLC capacity.
Can I use the XLCs or Vortex-i sensor on the MultiTest-i system? Can I use the Vortex-i sensor or ILCs on the MultiTest-x system? Can I use the XLCs or ILCs on the Vortex-i system?
No to all these questions, the MultiTest-i, Vortex-i and MultiTest-x systems are not compatible. Although the connectors are the same the loadcells and sensors can not be interchanged.
The MultiTest-i is designed for use with the ILCs only.
The XLCs are designed for use with the MultiTest-x only.
The Vortex-i is designed to be used with the Vortex-i sensors only.
Can the speed settings be fixed to avoid tampering on my Mecmesin motorised test stand? (MultiTest-i, Vortex-i and MultiTest-x, MultiTest, MultiTest-d and Vortex)
In the case of the Emperor controlled stands this can be done easily by using Emperor™ in the Operator mode rather than Master. The user can then not tamper with the program being run. unless they use the password to change to Master mode.
Similarly the MultiTest-x has a Supervisor mode. With Supervisor turned off the speed can not be changed.
I have been using a PC and a serial cable (RS232) to communicate with my Mecmesin equipment. I have just replaced my old PC with a new one, but my serial cable cannot be connected to the new PC. (RS232 and USB)
If your new PC cannot be connected to your Mecmesin equipment, that is because it has a (small rectangular) USB serial connector, instead of a (9 pin or 25 pin D-connector) for RS232 serial communication. If you have a Vortex-<EM>i</EM>, MultiTest-<EM>i,</EM> or MultiTest-<EM>x</EM> test stand you will need to use the RS232 / USB converter cable supplied. If you have older equipment (e.g. an Imperial test stand, or a force gauge and DataPlot, or WinWedge, software) you will need to purchase a converter cable, please ask for Part 432-228)
I intend to store my unit without for several months without using it; are special storage conditions required?
If the instrument contains a nickel-cadmium battery pack and is not intended to be used for at least two months, discharge the battery pack completely before storing. It is also recommended that such instruments are stored between 15°C to 30°C in low humidity conditions. After two months (plus) storage, it is essential the instrument undergoes two charge/discharge cycles before use (to attain the correct battery pack discharge capacity).
Our stand doesn`t move, moves slowly or appears stuck, what can we do? (MultiTest-i, MultiTest, MultiTest-x, MultiTest-d, Vortex or Vortex-i)
If the stand is moving slowly or not at all when you are jogging please consult your stand`s manual on how to speed up the jog rate. With some stands access may be restricted by a `supervisor` or `master` mode.
If the stand is used with a gauge please also check the gauge settings.
The MultiTest-i and Vortex-i jog buttons only move a small amount and are intended for emergency use. Use the buttons in Emperor™ or a use a program for more control.
Can I compensate for our system overestimating the deflection of our test sample, because the loadcell and stand also deform under load? (Loadcell Deflection Compensation, LDC, Stiffness factor, MultiTest-i, Imperial, ILC, MultiTest-x & XLC)
There is a facility within Emperor™ and on the MultiTest-x system to compensate for deflection/deformation of:
1) the loadcell
2) the test stand
3) the fixturing.
With older MultiTest-i and Imperial systems we supplied a stiffness value for the test stand and ILC combination. We stopped this practice because customers frequently use different ILCs and so would need to calculate a new value for each ILC/test stand/fixture combination. Also some customers are not concerned with using the compensation. In order to calculate the Loadcell Deflection Compensation/Stiffness value (N/mm) you need to very slowly and carefully run to 90%-95% of the capacity of the loadcell or stand, whichever is smaller. Your local Mecmesin Distributor will be able to help you with this.
To input your Loadcell Deflection value open the programmed testing module of Emperor™ click on `Setup`, `System`, `Loadcell Deflection`. You will probably find that the `Stiffness:` box is empty.
If you are using only simple fixturing, e.g. just a compression plate and a short extension rod, you can simply type in the stiffness value and click on [OK].
If you have added fixturing which is likely to deform significantly under load, you will need to re-measure the stiffness of your system.
Your local Mecmesin distributor will be able to explain the procedures required and give you a program to calculate the required compensation value.
