FAQs

Do I need an Instron device to calibrate my ELF system?

Question: Do I need an Instron device to calibrate my ELF or WELF?

Answer: No! You can use dead weights and that will work fine. The video calibration tutorial uses one, but it's not necessary.

 

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I have an RMA Number. What do I do?

After your RMA number has been issued, you should have received an email with instructions, which are printed below.

  1. Mark your RMA number clearly in large text on the outside of the package. We are unable to accept packages which do not clearly show the RMA number on the outside of the box.
  2. Inside the package, please include a letter providing your name, your RMA number, your return shipping address, and a brief description of the problem.
  3. Please package the returned product very carefully to prevent damage during transit. We recommend the original box and packing material. If the original packing is not available, we recommend at least one inch of firm padding all the way around the product. The package should be trackable and insured for an appropriate value.
  4. Ship the package to:

Tekscan, Inc.
333 Providence Highway
Norwood, MA 02062

Attention: RMA # RMAxxxxxx (your issued number)

Note: You are responsible for the cost of shipping the product to Tekscan. We will gladly match your shipping method (e.g., Ground, 2-Day, overnight, etc.) for the return shipment back to you. However, please be aware that any local customs charges will not be paid by Tekscan.

If you have any further questions regarding your RMA, please contact Tekscan Technical Support.

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How Do I Obtain an RMA Number?

An RMA number can only be issued by contacting Tekscan Technical Support.

We will help you with the necessary troubleshooting steps. If a product is in need of Tekscan evaluation, the Customer Support team member will issue an RMA number to you.

If you're calling about a unit:

  • Be ready to operate the unit
  • Have the product serial number available
  • Call when the unit is powered and exhibiting the symptom

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What is an RMA number?

RMA is an acronym for Return Material Authorization.

A RMA number is assigned to the service order that is created when a customer requests repair, or service of product believed to be defective. RMA numbers are required for all service and repair work performed by Tekscan, Inc. The RMA number will be provided to the customer after successfully providing the information needed to create the service order.

This FAQ entry details the steps to obtaining an RMA number.

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Can I Trim the FlexiForce sensor?

Question: Can I Trim the FlexiForce™ Sensor?

Answer: Yes - it is possible to trim the FlexiForce sensor if the sensing area is too large or the wrong shape for your application. Additionally, trimming the sensor can be a good way to develop a proof-of-concept before investing in a customized sensor solution. However, please keep in mind that trimming the sensing area can result in less durability, potential for shorting, and less sensitivity.

Trimmed FlexiForce sensorTrimmed FlexiForce sensorIf you attempt to trim the sensor, we recommend using a sharp pair of scissors to lessen the stress and/or deformation of the sensor that may occur when cutting. Once you've trimmed the sensor to the desired shape and/or size, you will want to apply a piece of tape to both sides of the sensor - this will help create a seal around the sensor keeping out dirt and debris.

If you need to punch a hole in the sensing area, we recommend creating a slightly larger hole than needed, applying tape on both sides of the sensing area, and then creating another smaller hole in the center. This will create a ring of tape around the hole you've just created and help to keep the sensor sealed.

Note: Tekscan cannot warranty sensors that have been physically altered.

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Why do I need an excitation circuit to read force with FlexiForce A201 sensors?

Question: Why do I need an excitation circuit to read force with FlexiForce™ A201 sensors?

Answer: You should use an excitation circuit to provide a constant drive voltage/current and provide an output voltage that is proportional to the applied force. Our FlexiForce QuickStart Board contains all the components necessary to build the recommended circuit, along with a detailed, step-by-step instruction manual.

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Can I customize a Tekscan sensor?

Question: Can I customize a Tekscan sensor?

Answer: Yes. If you cannot find a sensor that fits your application needs in our standard selection, we can work with you to custom design and manufacture a sensor. Your sales representative can provide you with additional information.

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Can I purchase only Tekscan sensors?

Question: Can I purchase only Tekscan sensors?

Answer: Tekscan’s patented array or grid sensors are designed to only work with our software and hardware; therefore you cannot simply purchase the sensors unless you own a Tekscan system. We offer single element force sensors that can be purchased without our electronics and software.

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How do I clean Tekscan sensors?

Question: How do I clean Tekscan sensors?

Answer: You can wipe our sensors clean with alcohol or water.

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Can Tekscan sensors be cut or trimmed?

Question: Can Tekscan sensors be cut or trimmed?

Answer: Yes, some of our sensors can be cut or trimmed to smaller sizes or shapes, or even punctured for secure placement, such as the model 7800 pressure sensor designed to be sized for custom embedding in battery placements.

For example, this is one of the most important advantages of our in-shoe F-Scan™ sensor, which can be trimmed to fit any shoe size up to a men’s size 14.

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