Hoggan Scientific ergoFET User manual

Dual Function Push/Pull Force Gauge
ergoFET User Guide

Congratulations on becoming the proud owner of the new ergoFET with wireless technology, Hoggan
Scientific LLC renowned digital handheld push/pull force gauge. ergoFET is one of the latest in Hoggan's
highly functional and innovative ergonomics product line.
The new ergoFET wireless allows testing to be done FREE of cords in conjunction with optional FDC FET
Data Collection Software. This provides freedom and ease of use performing force measurement tests. Its
compact, ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand for direct compression testing, and is excellent for
small to medium push and pull force test applications.
Hoggan has been creating innovative solutions to real-life measurement issues since 1984, designing
evaluation tools to empower Ergonomic, Engineering, Safety and Human Factors Professionals to objectify and
quantify product design and human performance. Our other ergonomics innovations include digitFET - a
miniature push and pinch force gauge for sensitive hand and finger force measurements, and the revolutionary
ergoPAK - measurement kit which features highly flexible, mix and match devices for measuring force, angle,
velocity, torque, and vibration in any combination for real-time job analysis and ergonomics research. The only
limitation to what the ergoPAK can measure is your creativity.
Hoggan's ergo products are recognized for innovation, excellent quality, and long-lasting accuracy and
reliability. Our highly satisfied customers include automotive, aerospace, consumer products, and food
manufacturers, as well as ergonomics consultants, universities, and research institutions worldwide.
At Hoggan, we are constantly improving our products to better meet your needs. Besides the addition of the
new wireless technology incorporated into the ergoFET line of force gauges, we've added a new feature to the
ergoFET. You can now select the unit of measure to read out in lbs, Newton’s, or KGF.
We understand the value of customer feedback. Our customers provide us with many of our best product
improvement ideas, as well as interesting new measurement applications. As you have comments and
suggestions, we'd love to hear from you
In the meantime, we hope you enjoy using your ergoFET with new wireless technology capability
immediately, and for many years to come. For more information on all of our innovative
ergonomic, medical and fitness products
Page 2

Table of Contents Page
ergoFET Wireless Overview 4
What is Included 5
Specifications 5
Care and Cleaning 6
Calibration 6
Transporting ergoFET 6
Operating Features 6
On/Off Switch 6
Sleep Mode 6
Reset Button 6
Threshold Button 7
LCD Windows 7
Display Settings 8
Force Measurement 8
Bluetooth / FET Stick 9
Battery Check 9
Battery Saver / Sleep mode 10
ergoFET Testing 10-11
Recording and Retrieving Test Data 12
Low Batteries 13
Changing Batteries 13
Warranty Information 13-14
Customer Service/Repairs 14
Ordering Replacement Parts 14
Page 3

ergoFET Wireless Overview
ergoFET is a accurate, portable, dual function portable, push/pull force gauge. This battery operated, hand-
held device weighs less than a pound, and fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. ergoFET provides you
with objective, quantifiable data for measuring both compression (push) and tension (pull) forces for a variety
of job activities and other force measurement applications.
ergoFET uses sophisticated digital technology to achieve its high degree of accuracy and reliability. Strain
gauge elements within the transducer react independently to measure external forces from multiple angles. This
patented system enables the Ergofet to account for even subtle changes in force.
Information from the gauge is displayed in two LCD windows, Peak Force, and Duration/Sec. The Peak
Force LCD shows the force being applied against the transducer pad during the compression test as well as a
tension test, and displays the maximum force reached at the test's conclusion. Duration/Secs shows the elapsed
time of the test from the time the testing threshold was crossed until the test was concluded.
ErgoFET was designed to be a stand-alone gauge for capturing individual force measurements under any
job condition. However, with ergoFET new wireless technology can be used in conjunction with data collection
software to increase analysis capability. The wireless device allows greater freedom and movement during
testing with software, which eliminates dictating the location of the computer and length of instrument cable, so
you can move freely during testing.
Page 4

What is Included:
.ergoFET Wireless Digital Force Gauge
.Flat Transducer Pad
.Large Curved Transducer Pad
.Small Round Flat Transducer Tip
.Handle
.Rechargeable Li-ION batteries, Charger included
.16 Inch Strap with “D” Rings
.Open End Stationary Hook
.#2 Hook with Clasp
.4 Inch Extension Rod
.User Guide
.Product/Warranty card
.Calibration certificate
.Carrying Case
.Optional –Bluetooth / FET Stick (Included with software when software ordered)
Specifications:
.Weight: l lb.
.Power Source: 3.7V LI-ION lithium batteries
.Controls: On/Off, Reset, Threshold
.Operating Temperature: 52 92 (11 33 C)
.Humidity: 80 60% non-condensing
.Capacity: 300 lbs Tension and Compression
.Test Range:
- Low Threshold 0.8 lbs to 300 lbs in 0.1 lb increments Metric Newtons: 3.6N 1320N in 0.4N
increments KGF (kilograms force): 0.4kgf to 135kgf in .1kgf increments
- High Threshold 3.0 lbs to 300 lbs in 0.1 lb increments Metric Newtons: 12.1N to 1320N in
0.4 N increments KGF: 0.4kgf to 135kgf in 0.14increments
.Accuracy: Within 1%
.Data Storage Stores 30 most recent tests.
Page 5

Care and Cleaning
Your ergoFET is built to provide long lasting, reliable service. As with any precision instrument, it should
be used with care. It should not be dropped, banged against hard surfaces, or used as scale.
The exterior surface of the ergoFET surface can be cleaned with damp soft cloth. Small amount of
household spray cleaner can be used. Any cleaner residue should be removed with soft cloth dampened with
clean water. We recommend that you periodically inspect your unit for wear, and proper functioning.
Calibration
The ergoFET comes with calibration certificate, ensuring that the unit was properly calibrated at the
time of shipment. To ensure continued accuracy and reliability your ergoFET unit should be recalibrated
annually, by properly Hoggan Scientific, LLC.
Transporting ergoFET
Hoggan Scientific strongly recommends that you store and transport the ergoFET in the hard sided protective
carrying case provided.
Operating Features
On/Off Switch
The On/Off switch slides left and right to turn the unit on and off. Even though the ergoFET is equipped with
Sleep Mode battery saver feature, we recommend that the unit be turned off when not in use. Refer to Image A
for Power On/Off Switch.
Sleep Mode
If your unit is left on for approximately 3 minutes or more, your unit will go into Sleep Mode to preserve
battery life. To take the unit out of Sleep Mode, it can be awakened by turning the power off for at least five
minutes, or by pressing the Reset button.
Reset Button
The reset button activates the ergoFET. It can also be used to clear the displays and to reinitialize the unit.
Reset may be necessary to wake up the gauge from sleep mode, or to clear occasional stray readings caused by
static discharge. Refer to Image A for location of Reset Button.
It is not necessary to press reset after each test. The ergoFET automatically begins recording new data
when the force threshold is crossed.
Image A
Page 6

Threshold Button
Threshold refers to the amount of force required before the ergoFET begins recording test data. The
threshold level can be set to either High or Low setting, and is displayed in the duration/force window.
Refer to Image A for Threshold Button location.
High Threshold
The High Threshold is most commonly used. In the High setting, three pounds of force must be exerted
before ergoFET begins recording test data. The High threshold allows for easier placement of the unit, and
reduces false starts. High threshold displays force in 0.1 lb increments (.44N) during testing. Begins recording
test data at 3.0 lbs force (12.1N) Records data in 0.1 lb increments up to 300 lbs (.44N increments to 1320N)
Pressing Reset does not change the threshold setting
Low Threshold
The Low threshold setting is designed for more sensitive, lower force readings such as when testing finger
and hand muscle weakness. Greater care must be used when positioning the unit while in the Low setting, as the
threshold of 0.8 lbs (3.6 N) is easily crossed. Begins recording test data at 0.8 lbs (3.6N) Records data in 0.1 lb
increments up to 300 lbs (.44N increments to 1320N) Pressing Reset does not change the threshold setting.
LCD Windows
Peak Force
During testing, the Peak Force LCD displays the actual force being applied to the transducer pad. At test
completion, the maximum force value (peak force) is displayed. Refer to Image B.
Duration/Sec.
The Duration/Sec. LCD window shows the elapsed time (in tenths of second) from the time the force
threshold was crossed until pressure was released. Monitoring test duration is an important element in
maintaining consistency between tests. Also displayed is the Duration/Sec. window is the threshold setting
(Low or High). Refer to Image B.
Image B
Page 7

Display Settings
You may adjust the LCD brightness of the ergoFET by doing the following:
1. Set the unit in the display mode by holding down the Threshold button and click the Reset Button twice.
2. Once the unit is in the display mode, press and hold the Threshold button until the desired brightness level is
achieved. Display will go from dim to bright and then recycle through.
3. Press the Reset button to return to test mode.
Force Measurement Settings
You may choose the unit of measure, (lbs, Newtons, KGF) by putting the ergoFET in the Force Measurement
mode press and hold the Threshold button for five seconds, the display will go blank only showing hash mark
for the unit of measurement currently chosen. Press the Threshold button to toggle through options. Press the
Reset button to return to test mode. Refer to Image C.
Image C
Wireless Mode - Power On/Off
To turn on or set the ergoFET to RF mode for use with software:
1. Hold the threshold button down for 5 seconds for the force measurement setting mode.
2. Continue to hold the threshold button down for another 5 seconds to turn on the wireless power.
3. The Peak Force display will show RF (wireless), and the Duration/Secs display will show on or Off.
4. Press the threshold button to toggle the RF (wireless) power on or off. Toggle on for use with software.
Refer to Image D for RF and On/Off display for wireless mode.
Image D
Page 8

Bluetooth / FET Stick
Included with your ergoFET is a Bluetooth / FET Stick. Refer to Image F. The Bluetooth / FET Stick is needed
when the ergoFET is used with software for testing. The Bluetooth / FET Stick is included when the software
CD disk is ordered. Instructions for using the Bluetooth / FET Stick are included with your software purchase.
Image F
Battery Check
The ergoFET batteries are rated for 300 hours of operating use. The life of the batteries may vary depending
on your usage pattern. To help you identify when the batteries will need replacement, ergoFET is equipped
with "power check" feature to allow you to see remaining battery power. To conduct power check, follow these
four steps.
1. Put the unit into data retrieval mode, hold down the Threshold Button then click the reset button.
2. Press on the Threshold Button for five seconds. The unit will then display in the peak force LCD
AP indicating power check, and number from 1 to 100 in the Duration/Secs LCD display indicating the
percent of power remaining in the batteries. Refer to Image G.
Image G
3. The unit will return to data retrieval mode after five seconds. To access again, press the threshold button
again for five seconds.
4. To return to test mode, press the reset button.
Page 9

Battery Saver/Sleep Mode
The ergoFET’s self activating 'sleep' mode is designed to extend battery life. The ergoFET goes to sleep
when the unit has not received any input for three minutes. The unit can be 'awakened' from sleep mode by:
Pressing the Reset button, or Turning the unit off for five minutes or more.
NOTE: When using ergoFET RF with Bluetooth / FET Stick and software: if the ergoFET has not received any
input for three minutes or crossed the threshold setting, “sleep” mode will activate and signal transmission will
stop. Simply press the reset button and the signal will start transmitting again.
The ergoFET batteries are designed to provide constant power throughout the battery life. As result,
performance declines rapidly in the last few percent of battery life. To avoid any interruption of testing
capability, due to low battery power, Hoggan Scientific recommends you change batteries when the power
check reading reaches approximately 15%.
ergoFET Testing
The ergoFET was developed to eliminate the subjective nature of testing by giving clear, accurate, objective,
quantified force measurements. ergoFET increases testing reliability and accuracy.
For best results, be sure to install the proper attachment for the area being tested, and check to ensure that
attachments are securely affixed to the unit, and that the unit is properly positioned for maximum surface area
contact and direct force application.
The ergoFET is ambidextrous. It can be held in either the left or right hand for compression testing, or you
may switch hands from test to test, depending on stabilization requirements. To secure the ergoFET in your
hand, place the strap over your hand, and perform one hand direct push test. See Image H below.
Image H
Page 10

For tension testing and compression testing not involving direct force application with the hand, the one hand
handle can be used in conjunction with appropriate test attachment being used for tension and compression
tests. The one hand handle can also be used with two hands in certain situations.
To insert handle, push aside strap on underside of gauge. The screw insert is located on the underside of the
gauge. Thread the screw portion of handle into the insert and tighten until snug. Do not over tighten. See
Images I below for attaching handle to gauge.
Image I
Below are examples of the ergoFET with one hand handle using two hands to perform a push test, lifting to
weigh contents of bucket, and pull test. See Images J, K, and L below.
Image J Image K Image L
Page 11

Recording and Retrieving Test Data
The ergoFET is designed to store and retrieve results for the 30 most recent tests.
In test mode, results are displayed for the most recent test only. Results for each new test, peak force,
and duration, will be displayed as soon as the test is completed, replacing results from the previous test.
1. To put the unit in data retrieval mode hold down the Threshold button and then click the reset button
once.
The unit will display peak force in the peak force LCD display. The number (representing the most recent
test performed) on the left hand side of the duration/secs LCD display, and test duration in the right hand side
of the duration/secs display. Refer to Image M.
Image M
In data retrieval mode, test duration displays in the following ways
1. A decimal point appears in the display for of .1 to 9.9 seconds (tenths of seconds).
2. No decimal point will appear for tests of 10 seconds to 99 seconds (whole seconds).
To scroll through test results, press the Threshold button. The unit will display new peak force, the number
representing the 2nd most recent test, and test duration for the test displayed.
Each time you press the Threshold button, the unit will move backward to the previous test, up to total
of 30 tests.
30 tests will be stored as long as the unit has battery power. Turning off the unit, or allowing the unit to go to
sleep mode will not affect the stored results. However, the 31st test will bump the oldest test. At that point,
the oldest test(s) will no longer be retrievable.
3. To return to test mode press the reset button the unit will display peak force of 0.0, L or H, indicating low
or high threshold, and duration/secs of .0, you can enter data retrieval mode at any time, by holding down the
Threshold button, and then pressing the Reset button. The unit will display the most recent test results.
The ergoFET was designed as standalone gauge for simple measurements. However, with newly
incorporated wireless, the unit allows you the option to use ergoFET, cord free, with Hoggan Scientific data
collection/research software. Using software will increase your evaluation, documentation and research
capability. The Ergofet does not save test data when the RF transmitter is turned on.
Page 12

Low Batteries
Fading LCD displays and unlit segments of the LCD are indications that the ergoFET battery power may
be low. If LCD segments remain unlit after pressing Reset, the batteries should be changed.
To avoid testing interruptions due to low battery power, we recommend that you check remaining batter
power regularly, and replace batteries when they reach approximately 15% power level. To check battery
power, follow the battery check instructions on page 9.
Changing Batteries
The ergoFET uses (2) 3.7V 1/2AA LI-ION rechargeable batteries, for compact placement, and long life. These
batteries can be purchased from Hoggan Scientific LLC. To change the battery, remove the attachment from the
main unit. Carefully remove the batteries from their holders. When installing new batteries, make sure the
positive (+) posts align with the (+) marks on the ergoFET body. If segments do not light up after installing new
batteries, please contact Hoggan Scientific LLC Customer Service Department at 800-678-7888.
Warranty
Product Warranty Information
The ergoFET is warranted for period of one year from the time of purchase. If the ergoFET fails to operate
because of defect in materials or workmanship at any time within one year of the purchase date, it will be
repaired or replaced free of charge by Hoggan Scientific. Extended warranties (extra year or years) are
available at an additional nominal fee.
If you wish to purchase and extended warranty after the purchase of your ergoFET, there is a 30 grace period to
purchase an extended warranty package. Contact Hoggan Scientific for more information.
Page 13

Any repairs to the ergoFET unit should be completed by qualified service technician.
Ordering Replacement Parts
Hoggan Products are manufactured to exacting specifications. When replacing worn or damaged parts, use
only original 'Hoggan' manufactured parts. The use of substitute or unauthorized parts will void your warranty
and may increase the possibility of injury to the user, or cause additional damage to the unit.
When ordering Replacement Parts, please take the unit out of service, and complete the following:
1. Identify the brand, model, and serial number, and note the unit's function.
2. Identify and document the problem and the worn or missing parts.
3. Contact Hoggan Scientific LLC. Replacement parts (attachments) will be shipped directly from
Hoggan.
All repair services will be performed at Hoggan Scientific LLC Manufacturing plant.
Page 14
Table of contents
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