- June 5, 2025
What Is A Strain Gauge Amplifier? A Complete Guide for Accurate Signal Conditioning
Strain gauges are widely used in engineering and industrial applications to measure force, weight, pressure, or strain with high accuracy. However, the electrical signals they produce are extremely small, typically in the microvolt range, making them too weak to use directly. This is where a strain gauge amplifier becomes essential, converting those tiny signals into accurate, usable data for monitoring or control systems.
A strain gauge amplifier is an electronic device that boosts the tiny electrical signal output from a strain gauge to a level suitable for processing, recording, or monitoring. It also provides excitation voltage to power the strain gauge bridge circuit.
Key Functions:
- Signal amplification: Converts microvolt-level signals into volt, milliamp, or digital outputs
- Filtering and noise reduction: Eliminates unwanted electrical noise and interference
- Excitation supply: Delivers stable voltage to the strain gauge bridge (usually 5V or 10V)
- Zero and span adjustment: Allows calibration and fine-tuning for accurate readings
Why Signal Conditioning Is Critical
Raw output from a strain gauge is not linear or strong enough to be used directly in most systems. Signal conditioning using an amplifier provides:
- Improved accuracy and resolution
- Stable and reliable readings
- Compatibility with control systems and data acquisition devices
- Noise immunity in industrial environments
Types of Outputs from Strain Gauge Amplifiers
Depending on the application, strain gauge amplifiers can provide various types of outputs:
- Analog Voltage (e.g., 0–10V)
- Current Loop (e.g., 4–20 mA)
- Digital (e.g., RS232, USB, CAN, Modbus)
- Fieldbus Protocols (e.g., Profibus, EtherCAT)
Choosing the right output type ensures seamless integration with your measurement or control system.
Examples of Uses of Strain Gauge Amplifiers
Strain gauge amplifiers are used in a wide range of industries and applications where accurate force or structural measurement is essential:
- Load Cells: For weighing systems and industrial scales
- Pressure Sensors: In hydraulic or pneumatic systems
- Structural Health Monitoring: Bridges, buildings, and aerospace components
- Automotive Testing: Crash tests, suspension analysis
- Material Testing Machines: For tensile, compression, and fatigue testing
How to Choose the Right Strain Gauge Amplifier
When selecting a strain gauge amplifier, consider these key factors:
- Input Type
- Strain gauge resistance (typically 120Ω, 350Ω, or 1000Ω)
- Full-bridge, half-bridge, or quarter-bridge configuration
- Amplifier Gain and Range
- Ensure the amplifier can handle the expected signal range and provide sufficient gain.
- Output Type
- Choose an output compatible with your data acquisition system or controller (analog, digital, etc.)
- Environmental Conditions
- Ensure appropriate IP rating if used in dusty, wet, or outdoor environments.
- Power Supply Requirements
- Check voltage and current requirements—some amplifiers can be powered via USB, others require external power.
If you’re looking for a high-performance solution for strain gauge applications, the MAS10 Strain Gauge Signal Conditioner is a reliable choice. Designed for industrial and research environments, the MAS10 offers:
- High-accuracy signal amplification with low noise
- Built-in excitation voltage (5V or 10V)
- Adjustable zero and span settings
- Multiple output options, including analog (0–10V, 4–20 mA) and digital
- Compact and DIN-rail mountable for easy integration
Need help selecting the right strain gauge amplifier for your application?
Contact MeasureX to speak with our experts about your requirements, and we’ll help you find the best solution or provide flexible, customised options for your application.
