Mark-10 ES Series User manual

User’s Guide
Force Test Stands Series ES
User’s Guide
MODELESM301

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
1
Thank you…
Thank you for purchasing a Mark-10 ESM301 Programmable Force
Test Stand, designed for producing up to 300 lbF (1.5 kN) of ten-
sion or compression force. The ESM301 is an essential component
of a force testing system, typically also comprising a force gauge
and grips.
With proper usage, we are confident that you will get many years of
great service with this product. Mark-10 test stands are ruggedly
built for many years of service in laboratory and industrial environ-
ments.
This User’s Guide provides setup, safety, and operation instruc-
tions. Dimensions and specifications are also provided. For addi-
tional information or answers to your questions, please do not hesi-
tate to contact us. Our technical support and engineering teams are
eager to assist you.
Before use, each person who is to use the ESM301 should be
fully trained in appropriate operation and safety procedures.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF INCLUDED ITEMS....................................................... 2
OVERVIEW................................................................................. 2
MECHANICAL SETUP AND SAFETY....................................... 3
OPERATION BASICS................................................................ 7
TEST PARAMETER SETUP...................................................... 9
OPERATING MODES .............................................................. 22
COMMUNICATING WITH MESURGAUGE SOFTWARE ....... 30
FEATURE ACTIVATION.......................................................... 33
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE.............................................. 35
SPECIFICATIONS.................................................................... 37
DIMENSIONS ........................................................................... 37

User’s Guide
2
1LIST OF INCLUDED ITEMS
2 OVERVIEW
The ESM301 has three functional modes:
1. OPERATING MODE
This is the operating mode in which testing sequences can be
started and stopped.
2. TEST PARAMETER SETUP
In this mode, test parameters are configured, such as rate of speed,
number of cycles, password editing, and other parameters.
3. FEATURE ACTIVATION SETUP
This facility allows the user to enable features not originally pur-
chased through a code activation process.
Qty. Item
1 ESM301 test stand
4 Force gauge mounting screw
1 User’s guide (this booklet)
1 Power cord
1 Cable, controller to test frame, 6”
1 Cable, USB to RJ11 (for optional integrated travel
indication)
1 ESM301-002-X column extension (optional)
1 ESM301-003 bench mounting kit (optional)
1 09-1143 multi-function cable (optional)
1 09-1056 serial cable (optional)
1 Accessories kit (small hook, medium hook, 2” diame-
ter compression plate, 2” extension rod, #10-32 cou-
pler, tool kit)

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
3MECHANICAL SETUP & SAFETY
3.1 Appropriate Test Samples
Typical materials able to be tested by the ESM301 include many
manufactured items, such as springs, electronic components, fas-
teners, caps, films, mechanical assemblies, and many others. Items
that should not be used with the ESM301 include potentially flam-
mable substances or products, items that can shatter in an unsafe
manner, and any other components that can present an exceed-
ingly hazardous situation when acted upon by a force.
3.2 Using Grips & Fixtures With The ESM301
Ensure that the grip or fixture is positioned to ensure axial load with
respect to the loading shaft of the force gauge. When using a grip,
ensure that it secures the sample in such a way that it is prevented
from slipping out during a test, preventing a potential safety risk to
the operator and others in the vicinity. If using a grip or fixture from
a supplier other than Mark-10, ensure that it is constructed of suita-
bly rugged materials and components.
3.3 Mounting
Place the stand on a clean, flat and level work area free from vibra-
tion. If desired, the stand can be secured to the work area with 1/4-
20 screws fastened into the underside of the base. Failure to prop-
erly mount the test stand may make it more vulnerable to tipping,
causing a hazardous situation.
The test stand can also be mounted using the ESM301-003 mount-
ing kit. Screws of various lengths are supplied with this kit to ac-
commodate a range of bench thicknesses. Refer to the following
illustration for proper assembly:
3
IMPORTANT: Do not fasten any screws more than 0.25
in [6 mm] into the base of the test stand, or damage to
internal components can occur.

User’s Guide
In general, the ESM301 can be mounted at any angle, although
extra care should be taken during installation and operation.
Once the test stand is in a stable and secure position, install a force
gauge with four thumb screws (provided). All Mark-10 gauges
(except the Series CG) mount directly without adapters. Grips can
be mounted onto the force gauge and test stand base.
3.4 Setting Up The Controller
The power plug and controller cable must be connected to the rear
of the controller, as shown in the illustration below:
4

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
1. Fuse
2. Controller Cable Connector
Plug one end of the cable into this connector, and the other end
into the connector as shown in the illustration on the following
page. If this cable is not connected, the error message
ENCODER ERROR will be shown on the display and the test
stand cannot be operated.
3. PC Control Connector
Plug one end of the 09-1056 serial cable into this connector, and
the other end into a serial connector on a computer.
4. Power Plug Receptacle
Plug the power cord in here.
5. Travel Indication Connector
Plug one end of the USB/RJ11 cable into this connector, and the
other end into the mini USB connector in the rear of the cross-
head.
6. Force Gauge Cable Connector
Plug one end of the 09-1143 cable into this connector, and the
other end into a Series BG force gauge.
2
1
43
5
5 6

User’s Guide
The illustration above depicts proper connection of the controller cable
3.5 Connecting Power
Plug one end of the power cord into its receptacle at the rear of the
controller and the other end into a wall outlet with local earth ground
(3-prong connector).
Before turning on power, the following safety checks and proce-
dures should be performed:
1. Never operate the test stand if there is any visible damage
to the power cord or the test stand itself. The ESM301 is
powered by 110V/220V. Any contact with this high voltage
can cause serious injury or even death.
2. Ensure that the test stand is kept away from water or any
other electrically conductive liquids at all times.
3. Make sure the electrical outlet powering the test stand has
local earth ground (3-prong connector).
4. The test stand should be serviced by a trained technician
only. Power must be disconnected before the controller is
opened.
6

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
After the above safety checks and procedures have been per-
formed, the test stand may be powered on and is ready for opera-
tion.
4OPERATION BASICS
4.1 Operational Safety
The following safety checks and procedures should be performed
before and during operation:
1. Always consider the characteristics of the sample being
tested before initiating a test. A risk assessment should be
carried out beforehand to ensure that all safety measures
have been addressed and implemented.
2. Wear eye and face protection when testing, especially when
testing brittle samples that have the potential to shatter un-
der force. Although the ESM301 has relatively slow moving
mechanisms, be aware of the dangers posed by potential
energy that can accumulate in the sample during testing.
Extra bodily protection should be worn if a destructive failure
of a test sample is possible.
3. Keep away from moving parts of the test stand. Loose arti-
cles of clothing should not be worn, and long hair should be
covered to avoid being caught in any moving parts. A Crush
Hazard warning label is located on the base of the test
stand. It appears as follows:
Definition: Keep any body parts and clothing clear of the area between the
base of the test stand and the moving crosshead.
4. In certain applications, such as the testing of brittle samples
that can shatter, or other applications that could lead to a
hazardous situation, it is strongly recommended that a ma-
chine guarding system be employed to protect the operator
7

User’s Guide
and others in the vicinity from shards or debris.
5. When the test stand is not in use, ensure that the power is
turned off to prevent accidental engagement of any of the
controls.
4.2 Controls Layout
EMERGENCY
STOP
SOFT KEYS
UP
STOP /
ZERO TRAVEL DISPLAY
DOWN
DISPLAY
SOFT KEYS Functions are determined by the correspond-
ing text on the display.
UP Commences movement in the up direction.
DOWN Commences movement in the down direction.
STOP / ZERO
TRAVEL
DISPLAY
Stops crosshead movement / zeroes travel
display (if travel indication is enabled).
EMERGENCY
STOP
Stops crosshead movement and disables the
test stand until reset.
8

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
5TEST PARAMETER SETUP
This section provides configuration instructions for each test pa-
rameter. Parameters include:
All ESM301 test stands are shipped in Demo Mode, which provides
full functionality of all features (except integrated travel indication)
for an evaluation period of 160 operating hours. Demo Mode can be
disabled by pressing and holding STOP while turning on power to
the test stand. This mode can be re-enabled in the same fashion,
and will be active for the remaining number of hours.
After Demo Mode expires, only installed features will be displayed
in Test Parameter Setup. The initial Test Parameter Setup screen
appears as follows:
When the parameters have been configured as desired and are
Parameter Standard / Optional
Units of speed selection Standard
Speed (same for both directions) Standard
Password configuration Standard
Programmable travel limits Optional
Overload protection Optional
PC control Optional
Auto return Optional
Cycling with dwell time Optional
Independent up and down speeds Optional
Programmable button configuration Optional
UNITS: in/min
ESC > NTRE
_
<_
ESC Exits Test Parameter Setup, reverts to Operating
Mode
< – Scrolls to the previous parameter
– > Scrolls to the next parameter
ENTR Selects the parameter, allowing it to be modified
9

User’s Guide
ready to be saved, press ESC to exit Test Parameter Setup. The
screen will show SAVE CHANGES? Pressing YES will save the
changes and the display will revert to current status. Pressing NO
will not save the changes and return to the Test Parameter Setup
menu.
Note: Changes can be made to an unlimited number of set-
tings before saving.
The following is a flow chart for the menu structure:
MENU
SAVE CHANGES
UP SPEED
DOWN SPEED
AUTO RETURN
CYCLES
UPPER DWELL
LOWER DWELL
UNITS
KEYS
DEFAULT SETTINGS
NEW PASSWORD
OPERATING MODE
ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ENTR ESC
ENTR
ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (on) - (off)
ENTR ESC
ENTR
ENTR ESC
ENTR
ENTR ESC
ENTR
ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (in) - (mm)
ENTR ESC
ENTR
ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (yes) - (no)
ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
UPPER LM ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
LOWER LM ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
OVRLOAD V ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
C OVERLOAD ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
T OVERLOAD ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
CONTROL ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (PC) - (CONSOLE)
ESC
BAUD RATE ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
STOP & PAR ENTR ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
10

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
5.1 Speed, Up Speed, Down Speed (SPEED, UP SPEED, DN
SPEED)
If the independent up and down speed option has not been en-
abled, the up and down speeds will be the same, and is pro-
grammed in the SPEED parameter. If independent up and down
speeds are enabled, UP SPEED and DN SPEED parameters will
be present, and may be set individually.
Default setting: 10 in/min
Available settings: 0.02 – 45 in/min
5.2 Auto Return (AUTO RETURN)
With this feature, the crosshead moves to a limit switch, force set
point, or travel distance, whichever occurs first, and stops. Then,
the crosshead returns to the other limit and stops. The test speed is
dictated by the SPEED setting or the UP SPEED and DN SPEED
settings. The return speed is always maximum speed.
Default setting: off
Available settings: off, on
UP SPEED: 1 0 . 7 3
ESC ENTR
+
_
+
Increments the speed setting by .01 in or .5 mm. Hold-
ing down +will increment at an increasingly faster
rate.
–
Decrements the speed setting by .01 in or .5 mm.
Holding down –will decrement at an increasingly
faster rate.
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
11

User’s Guide
Note: If AUTO RETURN is turned on, CYCLING is automatically
turned off and the KEYS parameter is automatically set to MAIN-
TAINED mode. See following pages for details on the CYCLING
and KEYS parameters.
5.3 Cycling (CYCLES)
This setting allows the user to configure the number of up and down
cycles through which the crosshead will sequence. One cycle con-
sists of the crosshead moving to a limit switch, force set point, or
travel distance, whichever occurs first, at the specified speed, stop-
ping for the specified amount of dwell time, and returning to the
other limit at the specified speed. If the independent up and down
speed feature is not enabled, the speed will be the same in both
directions.
Default setting: 00000 (off)
Available settings: 00000 – 99999
AUTO RETURN: o f f
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
CYCLES: 00000
ESC ENTR
+
_
12

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
5.4 Upper Limit Dwell Time and Lower Limit Dwell Time
(DWELL U and DWELL L)
This setting corresponds to the amount of time, in seconds, for
which the crosshead stops at the limit during a cycle sequence.
Note: the dwell time setting is unavailable for an auto return
sequence.
Default setting: 0 (no dwell time)
Available settings: 0 – 9999.9
+
Increases the number of cycles in incre-
ments of 1. Holding down +will increment at
an increasingly faster rate. If 99999 is
reached the next number will be 00000 and
continue incrementing.
–
Decreases the number of cycles in incre-
ments of 1. Holding down –will decrement at
an increasingly faster rate. If 00000 is
reached the next number will be 99999 and
continue decrementing.
Press and hold
+ and –
simultaneously
If pressed and held for 2 seconds or longer
the number of cycles will change to 0.
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
DWELLU: 0000.0
ESC ENTR
+
_
13

User’s Guide
5.5 Upper and Lower Travel Limits (UPPER LM and LOWER
LM)
This setting corresponds to the travel distance the crosshead
moves before stopping or cycling. Upper and lower limits are pro-
grammed individually. The programmed distances are relative to
the zero position of the crosshead. The travel indicator can be ze-
roed by pressing and holding STOP for 3 seconds.
Default setting: ±12.000 in
Available settings: ±∞
+
Increases dwell time in increments of .1. Holding down
+will increment at an increasingly faster rate. If
9999.9 is reached the next number will be 0 and con-
tinue incrementing.
–
Decreases dwell time in increments of .1. Holding
down –will decrement at an increasingly faster rate. If
0 is reached the next number will be 9999.9 and con-
tinue decrementing.
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
UPPER LM: 2.058
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ Increases the travel limit setting by .001 in or .02 mm.
Holding down + will increment at an increasingly faster
rate.
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
–Decreases the travel limit setting by .001 in or .02 mm.
Holding down –will increment at an increasingly faster
rate.
14

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
5.6 Overload Analog Output Voltage (OVRLOAD V)
This setting corresponds to the full scale analog voltage output of
the force gauge. The ESM301 protects a force gauge from overload
by measuring incoming analog voltage and stopping crosshead
travel when the programmed percentage of full scale has been
reached (see Section 5.7). The value for Mark-10 gauges is ±1V.
Adjustable voltage allows for compatibility with other force gauges
as well.
Default setting: OFF
Available settings: ±1V, ±2V, ±4V, OFF
5.7 Compression and Tension Overload Settings
(C OVERLOAD and T OVERLOAD)
The setting corresponds to the percentage of full scale of the force
gauge at which crosshead travel stops. For example, a setting of
80% for a 50 lb capacity force gauge would stop crosshead travel
when 40 lb is reached.
Note: When the crosshead is moving in the UP direction, only the
tension overload setting applies. When the crosshead is moving in
the DOWN direction, only the compression overload setting applies.
Default setting: 100%
Available settings: 20% - 100% (10% increments)
OVRLOAD V: +/-1
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
15

User’s Guide
5.8 Control Source (CONTROL)
This setting corresponds to the source of test stand control. The
default value CONSOLE sets the test stand to accept commands
only from the console (front panel). Any external commands re-
ceived through the serial port are ignored.
PC refers to external control via serial communication. If any pa-
rameters are changed on the front panel, these settings will be ig-
nored, except for Auto Return or Cycling. If either of these pa-
rameters are turned on, PC control will be turned off.
Default setting: CONSOLE
Available settings: CONSOLE, PC
C OVERLOAD: 20%
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
CONTROL:
ESC ENTR
+
_
CONSOLE
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
16

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
5.9 Baud Rate (BAUD RATE)
This setting corresponds to the baud rate setting of the computer
program controlling the test stand.
Default setting: 9600
Available settings:
1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200
5.10 Stop Bits and Parity (STOP & PAR)
This setting corresponds to the stop bits and parity settings of the
computer program controlling the test stand.
Default setting: 8-1n
Available settings:
8-1E 8 stop bits, 1 stop bit, even parity
8-1o 8 stop bits, 1 stop bit, odd parity
8-1n 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity
8-2n 8 data bits, 2 stop bits, no parity
7-1E 7 data bits, 1 stop bit, even parity
7-1o 7 data bits, 1 stop bit, odd parity
7-2E 7 data bits, 2 stop bits, even parity
7-2o 7 data bits, 2 stop bits, odd parity
7-2n 7 data bits, 2 stop bits, no parity
BAUD RATE: 9600
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
17

User’s Guide
5.11 Units of Speed (UNITS)
Default setting: in/min
Available settings: in/min, mm/min
5.12 Programmable Button Function (KEYS)
Three button function modes are available:
1. Maintained
The crosshead will move continuously once the button
has been pressed. Subsequently pressing the UP,
DOWN, or STOP during a test will stop crosshead mo-
tion.
2. Momentary
The crosshead will move only if the button is held
STOP & PAR: 8-1n
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
U N I T S : mm/min
ESC NTRE
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
18

Model ESM301 Programmable Force Test Stand
down. Releasing the button will stop movement imme-
diately.
3. Auto
Holding down the button for more than 0.5 seconds will
enter momentary mode, at which time an audible indi-
cator will sound and the LED indicator on the button
pushed will be illuminated. A short tap on the button will
operate the test stand in maintained mode. Pressing
UP, DOWN, or STOP during maintained mode will stop
crosshead motion.
Default setting: maintained
Available settings: maintained, momentary, auto
5.13 Default Settings (DEFAULT?)
This setting provides a quick return to factory settings, as follows:
SPEED: 10 in/min
UP SPEED: 10 in/min
DN SPEED: 10 in/min
AUTO RETURN: off
CYCLING: 00000 (off)
UPPER LM: +12.000
LOWER LM: -12.000
OVERLOAD V: OFF
C OVERLOAD: 100%
T OVERLOAD: 100%
CONTROL: CONSOLE
BAUD RATE: 9600
KEYS: m a i n t a i n e d
ESC ENTR
+
_
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Parameter Setup menu
ESC Exits the parameter without saving changes
19