What is the accuracy of a ProScale
measuring system?
The accuracy of the core product (scale and encoder) depends on
the ProScale Model.
This accuracy is calculated at 20ºC (68ºF). ProScale has a thermal
coefficient of 25ppm/ºC.
Click on this chart to view Accuracy
Specifications for all ProScale models.
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What materials can ProScale be
used to measure?
ProScale can be used to measure any simple or
complex materials or products where liquid will not contact the scale (in most cases,
installing the scale upside down solves this problem).
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Why is ProScale better than shaft
encoders?
When mounted properly, ProScale
only changes its reading when the machine actually moves, instead of when
a shaft begins to turn. This removes any error due to
backlash in shafts.
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Why is ProScale better than optical measuring systems?
Unlike optical measurement systems,
the accuracy of capacitive and inductive measuring systems are not affected by sawdust or
other non-conductive contaminants. Additionally, power consumption
is much less than optical measurement systems, which enables ProScale to
operate on standard batteries for many months (and makes installation
easier).
Also, ProScale is a solid-state electronic device, so
there's very little to wear out. The encoder and scale are designed
to withstand shop dirt, dust, and other airborne contaminants, and the
controls are sealed with a protective cover for long life.
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Why is ProScale better than magnetic measuring systems?
Unlike magnetic measurement systems there is never a gap to set or worry
about. the ProScale system uses a 'captive' encoder to always
maintain proper distance between the encoder and the scale.
Additionally, power consumption is much less than
magnetic measurement systems, allowing long term use with standard
battery power (and making installation and maintenance easier).
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Will ProScale lose its
position when turned off or when power is removed?
ProScales products built with
Absolute technology will not lose their position when turned off or
when power is removed. (Models 150 and 250 plus any ProScale products
incorporating these systems)
ProScale products built with
Incremental
technology will not lose their position when the READOUT is turned off, but could
possibly lose their position when power is removed from the Encoder. (Models 180, 280,
380 and 580 plus any ProScale products built using this technology)
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How long can ProScale measure?
Standard ProScales have a maximum measuring range of 0 to 284 inches
in a single length.
The ProScale readout has a maximum display range of +399.99
inches. ProScale can be custom built to measure longer ranges;
contact us with details of your
application.

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What is the power source for ProScale measuring devices?
Most ProScale measuring
devices are powered by the Digital Readout. The Readout contains 1 CR123
lithium battery or two AA alkaline or lithium batteries.
Some
of our digital
readout models are
powered by 12-24VDC.
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Can ProScale communicate with computers? What is
the protocol?
ProScale is compatible with computers using several different
protocols. Our SPC equipped readouts
output Mitutoyo Digimatic™ signal. This
signal can be converted to RS232, RS485, RS422, or an analog 0-5 or
0-10VDC signal
using our interface products. Many of our digital readouts have built-in
converters as well. Data may also be transmitted wirelessly using
Pro-RF
SPC or Encoder transmitters and receivers.
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What is the maximum speed that a ProScale
encoder can be moved?
This depends on which product that ProScale is used to build, and
the configuration of the display and/or input device.
Encoders with
Absolute technology have a slew rate of 16 inches per second. (M150, M250)
Hi-Speed Absolute
Encoders technology
have a slew rate of 30 inches per second. (ProTable)
Encoders with Inductive
Incremental
technology have a slew rate of 60 inches per second.
(M180, M280, M380, M580, ProPanels, ProStops)
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Can ProScale measuring devices be used
outdoors?
ProScales were designed
to be used indoors where the temperature is between 0 - 51ºC (32 -
120ºF). Our liquid crystal displays will not operate properly
outside these temperatures. Our LED display (requires 24VDC
power) will
operate in colder temperatures. Absolute (M150, M250) ProScales does not operate in wet environments,
however the encoder and scale are designed to withstand shop dirt, dust,
and other airborne contaminants
Incremental (M180, M280, M380, M580) ProScales will operate in light
splash environments, and the encoder and scale are designed to withstand
shop dirt, dust, and other airborne contaminants. Consideration should also be given to the effects on accuracy - for any
device - at extreme
temperatures.
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How do I retrofit my product with ProScale measuring
devices?
It's possible to
retrofit almost any product with ProScale. ProScale operates on a
simple principle: one part of a product moves, and other part is
stationary. Simply match the stationary and moving parts of your
product
to the stationary and moving parts of a ProScale, and an installation can be
completed. We make several
engineered retrofit
kits for popular woodworking machinery.
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Do you sell SPC (Statistical Process
Control) software?
No. There are numerous programs and methodologies for implementing
SPC. We only provide the data.
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Can I shorten a scale that I already have?
Any scale we manufacture can be shortened without causing the system to fail.
If you have an absolute style scale,
follow the instructions
here.
If you have an incremental style scale, the scale may be cut anywhere.
Instructions here.
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Is NIST calibration available?
We
manufacture and test all of our measuring devices using NIST traceable
components. A calibration chart can be generated (using NIST traceable
gage bars) for an additional charge of $125.00. This service is
available anytime (shipping charges to and from Accurate Technology may
apply).
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Last
Revised:
June 08, 2012. |