Questions we receive all the time.
Making your life simpler, sometimes you just want direct answers about how things operate and why. Here’s a list of common questions we get all the time.
Inertial Measurement Unit
Hardware
Can I log data remotely using the VMU931?
Yes, this might be possible using the Raspberry Pi Zero W board, for instance. The board costs only $10 USD, and it has a micro SD card slot and built-in Wifi/Bluetooth transmission.
Does the VMU931 have on-board memory?
No. However, you can log data remotely using the Raspberry Pi Zero W board.
What is the maximum output data rate of the VMU931?
Some types of data (quaternions, Euler angles, and headings) limit the output rate of the VMU931 to 200 Hz when activated. They must all be deactivated to attain an output rate of 1000 Hz.
Software
Do I need the VMU Reader?
Yes, if you want the sensor data to display automatically. There is no need to develop your own API or data logging tools.
What formats can you record the data in?
You can use the VMU Reader to export recorded data in two available formats (.txt or .csv).
Is the VMU931 compatible with ROS?
Not yet. An ROS package is currently in development.
Can Variense sensors be used with Linux or Mac OS?
Yes. No driver is required.
Can multiple VMU931 sensors be added together in parallel?
Yes, the newest release of the VMU Reader supports multi-channel data acquisition.
Force sensor
Hardware
What’s the difference between the FSE103 and the FSE1001?
The FSE103 sensor is a multi-axis force sensor that can detect forces in three directions: X, Y and Z. By contrast, the FSE1001 sensor is more similar to common load cells. It can only measure forces in one axis (tension and compression).
What is the accuracy of the capacitive force sensors?
Very accurate (<1.5% of full scale).
What is the maximum output data rate of the force sensors?
The sensors send up to 200 measurements per second (200 Hz).
What is the sensitivity of the FSE103 force sensor?
The sensor can detect a minimum force of about 0.1 N. The noise level is about 1.5 N.
Do I need to calibrate the sensor?
No. All sensors are calibrated by the Variense team before being shipped.
Technology
Is a capacitive force sensor the same thing as a resistive load cell?
No. A capacitive force sensor captures data by measuring capacitance. It then converts these data internally using a CDC.
A resistive load cell uses strain gauges and then generates a Wheatstone bridge circuit electrical output signal.
A resistive load cell uses strain gauges and then generates a Wheatstone bridge circuit electrical output signal.
What are the benefits and features of capacitive force sensors compared to strain gauges?
Capacitive technology provides enhanced sensitivity without compromising signal integrity. Capacitive sensors are a plug and play solution; digital, they do not require costly signal conditioning electronics.
Is the sensor sensitive to environmental conditions?
Somewhat. Capacitive technology is inherently robust to temperature variation. Moreover, the sensor’s firmware features a self-compensation technique that alleviates any signal errors.
How we conduct business
What is the minimum number of units I can buy?
One unit. We also offer bulk pricing on large orders. Get in touch with us to know more.
From time of purchase, when can I expect to receive my order?
We usually ship the same day. However, there may be up to a 5 day delay depending on additional work from our end.
Which shipping carrier do you use?
Typically, we use the national postal service (Canada Post). However, we can ship using FedEx, UPS or DHL. If you would like any of the above carriers, get in touch with us to find out more.
Do you provide faster shipping?
Get in touch with us and we will work with you to arrange for a more expedient service of your choosing. We will send you an invoice for any additional cost incurred due to faster shipping.