NI 9237 range problem

[LM84]

Im using semiconductor strain gages in a wheatstone configuration and my output goes from 0-500mv using 5V excitation. The NI 9237 specifies an input range of 25mv/V so it wont be able to measure the full range of my strain gages. Is it a good idea to attenuate my signal so the NI 9237 can read it? Im also curious how the module derives strain from the bridges mv output.

[Broken_Arrow]

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@LM84 wrote:

Im using semiconductor strain gages in a wheatstone configuration and my output goes from 0-500mv using 5V excitation. The NI 9237 specifies an input range of 25mv/V so it wont be able to measure the full range of my strain gages. Is it a good idea to attenuate my signal so the NI 9237 can read it?  [...]

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Your sensor has a 100mV/V output? That's a lot. But to answer your question, it is common to amplify or attenuate signals to match instrumentation, just be sure to use a quality instrumentation op amp. Do you have other excitation voltage options?

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@LM84 wrote:

Im also curious how the module derives strain from the bridges mv output.

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It doesn't necessarily derive strain. These devices are "strain" devices simply because they are analog inputs with the addition of excitation voltage and bridge completion, sense resistors, balancing circuits, etc. The units are whatever you make them to be. If you are using a 100 lbf torque sensor, then your full scale output is 100 lbf torque. Same for pressure, thrust, etc.