Mark-10 ESM301 User manual

Force Test Stand Model ESM301 / ESM301L
User’s Guide

Model ESM301 / ESM301L Test Stand User’s Guide
2
Thank you…
Thank you for purchasing a Mark-10 ESM301 / ESM301L Force Test Stand,
designed for producing up to 300 lbF (1.5 kN) of tension 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 environments.
This User’s Guide provides setup, safety, and operation instructions. Dimensions
and specifications are also provided. For additional information or answers to your
questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our technical support and
engineering teams are eager to assist you.
Before use, each person who is to use the test stand should be fully trained
in appropriate operation and safety procedures.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW.......................................................................................... 3
SETUP AND SAFETY ......................................................................... 4
OPERATION BASICS ......................................................................... 6
TEST FEATURE SETUP............................................…………………8
OPERATING MODES........................................................................ 18
COMMUNICATION............................................................................ 23
FUNCTION ACTIVATION.................................................................. 25
TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................... 27
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE....................................................... 28
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................. 29
DIMENSIONS .................................................................................... 29

Model ESM301 / ESM301L Test Stand User’s Guide
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1 OVERVIEW
1.1 List of included items
Qty. Description
1 ESM301 or ESM301L test stand
4 Force gauge mounting thumbscrews
2 Limit switch thumbscrews (same as above, supplied in a separate package)
1 Power cord
1 Cable, controller to test frame 12” (longer cables are optional)
1 Cable, USB to RJ11 (for travel indication option)
1 ESM301-002-X column extension (optional)
1 ESM301-003 bench mounting kit (optional)
1 09-1162 multi-function cable (optional)
1 09-1056 serial cable (optional)
1 RSU100 USB converter (optional)
1 Accessories kit (small hook, medium hook, 2” diameter compression plate, 2” extension
rod, #10-32 coupler, Allen wrench set)
1 Resource CD
Note: Unless otherwise indicated, all references to the model ESM301 also apply to the ESM301L.
1.2 Physical Features
Note the following physical features of the ESM301. The user’s guide will reference this terminology.
Limit switches
(rear of column,
not visible)
Force gauge
Upper grip
Lower grip
Controller
Base
Column
Motor
Crosshead

Model ESM301 / ESM301L Test Stand User’s Guide
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2 SETUP AND SAFETY
2.1 Mounting
Place the stand on a clean, flat and level work area free from vibration. 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 properly
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 mounting kit. Screws of various lengths are
supplied with this kit to accommodate a range of bench thicknesses. Refer to the illustration below for
proper assembly:
In general, the ESM301 can be mounted at any angle, although extra care should be taken during
installation and operation.
When the test stand is in a stable and secure position, install a force gauge with four thumb screws
(provided). Mark-10 gauges mount directly without adapters. Grips can be mounted onto the force gauge
and test stand base.
2.2 Installing the limit switches
Upper and lower limit switches are provided to stop crosshead travel at user-designated positions. Each
limit switch consists of an internal block riding along a rail, and an external thumbscrew. The
thumbscrews are shipped in a separate bag to avoid damage in transit. Refer to the illustration below for
proper installation:
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.

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2.3 Connections and Outputs
The power plug and controller cable must be connected to the rear of the controller, as shown in the
illustration below:
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 right.
3. RS-232 Connector
Outputs force only or force and travel data via RS-232. Also allows for PC control, if appropriate
functions are enabled. Plug one end of the 09-1056 serial cable into this connector, and the other
end into a serial connector on a computer or USB converter.
4. Power Plug Receptacle
Plug the power cord in here. Refer to the Connecting Power sub-section for important safety
information.
5. Power switch.
6. 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 crosshead.
7. Force Gauge Cable Connector
Interfaces with a Series 7, 5 or 4 force gauge. Plug one end of the 09-1162 cable into this
connector, and the other end into the gauge.
2.4 Safety / proper usage
Typical materials able to be tested by the ESM301 include many manufactured items, such as springs,
electronic components, fasteners, caps, films, mechanical assemblies, and many others. Items that
should not be used with the ESM301 include potentially flammable substances or products, items that
can shatter in an unsafe manner, and any other components that can present an exceedingly hazardous
situation when acted upon by a force.
1
2 3 4 6 7
5

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2.4.1 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 suitably rugged
materials and components.
2.5 Connecting power
Plug one end of the power cord into its receptacle at the rear of the stand and the other end into a wall
outlet with local earth ground (3-prong connector).
Before turning on power, the following safety checks and procedures 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 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 column covers are removed.
After the above safety checks and procedures have been performed, the test stand may be powered on
and is ready for operation.
3 OPERATION BASICS
3.1 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 under force. 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 articles of clothing should not be worn. Long
hair should be covered to avoid a hazardous situation. 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.

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4. In those applications where samples can shatter, or other applications that could lead to a
hazardous situation, use of a machine guard is strongly recommended.
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.
3.2 Controls
Key Primary Function
SOFT KEYS Functions are determined by the corresponding 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. Press and hold for two seconds to zero the travel
display (if travel indication option is installed).
EMERGENCY
STOP
Press this button anytime to stop test stand motion. Rotate clockwise to
release.
3.3 Modes 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 FEATURE SETUP
In this mode, test features are configured, such as rate of speed, number of cycles, password
editing, and other features.
3. FUNCTION ACTIVATION
Many test stand functions, such as cycling, auto return, distance measurement, and others are
ordered individually as options. The Function Activation menu provides a means of identifying
which functions were purchased. Through this menu, it is also possible to enable any functions
not originally purchased via an activation code. All functions are temporarily enabled for the first
160 hours of operation, as described below:
EMERGENCY
STOP
SOFT KEYS
UP
STOP /
ZERO TRAVEL DISPLAY
DOWN
DISPLAY

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DEMO MODE
The ESM301 is shipped in Demo Mode, during which time all available functions are
temporarily activated for 160 hours of operation. At power-up, a counter displays the
number of hours remaining, as follows:
Press STOP to continue.
At the end of this period, any functions not originally purchased will be deactivated,
and will no longer be accessible from the Test Feature Setup menu. Demo Mode
can be suspended at any time by pressing and holding STOP while turning on power
to the test stand. This mode can be re-enabled in the same manner, and will be
active for the remaining time period.
Refer to the Function Activation section for instructions for field activation.
R EMA I N I NG D EMO
T I ME : 1 6 0 H O URS
4 TEST FEATURE SETUP
This section provides configuration instructions for each test feature.
Feature Standard / Optional
Speed (same for both directions) Standard
Independent up and down speeds Optional
Auto return Optional
Cycling with dwell time Optional
Programmable travel limits Optional
Overload protection Optional
Preload Optional
Load Holding Optional
Break Detection Optional
PC control Optional
Communication settings Standard
Units of speed Standard
Programmable button configuration Standard
Password protection Standard
All ESM301 test stands are shipped in Demo Mode, as explained in the Overview section. After Demo
Mode expires, only installed functions will be displayed in Test Feature Setup. The initial Test Feature
Setup screen appears as follows:
S P E E D : 10 . 0 0
E S C < −−> E N T R

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Label Description
ESC Exits Test Feature Setup, reverts to Operating Mode
< – Scrolls to the previous feature
– > Scrolls to the next feature
ENTR Selects the feature, allowing it to be modified
When the features have been configured as desired and are ready to be saved, press ESC to exit Test
Feature 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 Feature
Setup menu.
Note: Changes can be made to an unlimited number of settings before saving.
The following is a flow chart for the menu structure:
MENU
SAVE CHANGES
UP SP.
DOWN SP.
AUTO RETURN
CYCLES
HI DWELL
LO DWELL
HI LIMIT
OVERLD
PRELOAD
OPERATING MODE
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
+ (inc) - (dec) ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
+ (on) - (off)
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
OFF ignore
save
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
ESC
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
LOAD HOLDING
ESC
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
BREAK DETECT
ESC
+ (PC) - (CONSOLE)
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
CONTROL
ESC + (inc) - (dec)
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
BAUD RATE
ESC + (inc) - (dec)
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
STOP & PAR
ESC
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
UNITS
ESC
MAINTAINED
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
KEYS
ESC + (inc) - (dec)
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
DEFAULT SETTINGS
ESC + (inc) - (dec)
save
ignore
ENTR
ESC
ENTR
NEW PASSWORD
LO LIMIT
+ (in) - (mm)
+ (inc) - (dec)
MARK-10
OTHER 2V
OTHER 4V
STOP
STOP, ZERO
ZERO, GO
OFF
+ (on) - (off)
+ (on) - (off)
COMP OVERLD ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
TEN OVERLD ENTR
ESC
ENTR
ignore
save
+ (inc) - (dec)
ESC
AUTO
MOMENTARY

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4.1 Speed, Up Speed, Down Speed (SPEED, UP SPEED, DOWN SP)
If the independent up and down speed option has not been installed, the up and down speeds will be the
same, and is programmed in the SPEED feature. If the independent up and down speed option is
installed, UP SPEED and DN SPEED features will be present, and may be set individually.
Default setting: 10 in/min
Available settings: 0.02 – 45 in/min
4.2 Auto Return (AUTO RETURN)
With this function, the crosshead moves to a limit switch or soft limit (force set point, distance limit,
preload, or break detection), 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 DOWN SP
settings. The return speed is always maximum speed. The maximum speed depends on whether or not
the optional high speed range has been installed.
Default setting: off
Available settings: off, on
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
Note: If AUTO RETURN is turned on, CYCLING is automatically turned off and the KEYS feature is
automatically set to MAINTAINED mode. See following pages for details on the CYCLING and KEYS
features.
4.3 Cycling (CYCLES)
This setting allows the user to configure the number of up and down cycles through which the crosshead
will sequence. One cycle consists of the crosshead moving to a limit switch or soft limit, whichever occurs
first, at the specified speed, stopping for the specified amount of dwell time, and returning to the other
limit at the specified speed. If the independent up and down speed function is not enabled, the speed will
be the same in both directions.
Default setting: 00000 (off)
Available settings: 00000 – 99999
U P S P E E D : 1 0 . 7 3
E S C −+ E N T R
Label Description
+
Increments the speed setting by .01 in or .5 mm. Holding
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 Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
AU T O R E T URN o f f
E S C −+ E N T R

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4.4 Upper and Lower Dwell Times (U DWELL and LO DWELL)
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
Label Description
+
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
continue 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 continue decrementing.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.5 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 programmed individually. The programmed distances are relative to the zero position
of the crosshead. The travel indicator can be zeroed by pressing and holding STOP for 3 seconds.
Default settings: +12.000 in, -12.000 in (ESM301) or +19.000 in., -19.000 in (ESM301L)
Available settings: From -19.000 to +19.000 in
C Y C L E S : 0 0 0 0 0
E S C −+ E N T R
Label Description
+
Increases the number of cycles in increments 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 increments 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 Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
H I D
W
E L L : 0 0 0 0 . 0
E S C −+ E N T R
H I L I MI T : 2 . 0 5 8
E S C −+ E N T R

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Label Description
+ Increases the travel limit setting by .001 in or .02 mm.
Holding down + will increment at an increasingly faster rate.
–Decreases the travel limit setting by .001 in or .02 mm.
Holding down –will increment at an increasingly faster rate.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.6.1 Overload Protection (OVERLD)
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. The default setting is
for Mark-10 gauges (±1V), however, the setting may be changed to ±2V or ±4V to accommodate other
force gauges.
Default setting: OFF
Available settings: MARK-10, OTHER 2V, OTHER 4V, OFF
4.6.2 Compression and Tension Overload Settings (COMP OVERLD and TEN OVERLD)
This setting corresponds to the percentage of force gauge full scale at which crosshead travel stops. For
example, a setting of 80% for a 50 lbF capacity force gauge would stop crosshead travel when
approximately 40 lbF 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)
Label Description
+ or – Increases or decreases the value.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.7.1 Preload (PRELOAD)
This setting corresponds to the test stand’s response to an initial load, referred to as a preload. The
crosshead can stop and/or zero the travel display when the preload has been reached. This function is
useful for applications such as spring testing, elongation testing, and tensile and compression testing of
various materials. In effect, it establishes a reference point. It is also sometimes referred to as a touch.
Note:
Before the start of a preload sequence, the crosshead must be positioned at either the upper or lower
physical limit switch.
Default setting: OFF
Available settings: STOP, STOP/ZERO, ZERO/GO, OFF
OV E R L D : MARK - 1 0
E S C −+ E N T R
COMP OV E R L D : 1 0 0
%
E S C −+ E N T R

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Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings listed below:
STOP Crosshead stops when preload has been reached
STOP, ZERO Crosshead stops when preload has been reached, then zeroes the travel display
ZERO, GO Travel display is zeroed when preload has been reached, crosshead does not stop
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.7.2 Preload Value (PRELD %FS)
This setting corresponds to preload value, defined as a percentage of the force gauge’s full scale in lbF
units. The test stand’s response, as described in the previous section, occurs when this value has been
reached.
Note:
In low force applications, consider test stand vibration and crosshead acceleration, as they can be
significant enough to produce a force exceeding the preload value.
Default setting: 1%
Available settings: 0 – 100%
Label Description
+ or – Increases or decreases the value in increments of .1
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.8 Load Holding
This setting directs the test stand to dynamically adjust the crosshead position to maintain a programmed
force. The force is programmed as a set point in a Series 5 or 7 gauge (refer to the user’s guide for
details). If the CYCLING option has been installed, loadholding will be active for the period of time as
defined in the Upper Dwell and Lower Dwell settings. If CYCLING has not been installed, loadholding will
continue indefinitely. Pressing STOP will end loadholding.
Default setting: OFF
Available settings: ON, OFF
P R E L OAD : Z E RO , GO
E S C −+ E N T R
P R E L D
%
F S : 0 1 . 0
E S C −+ E N T R
L OAD HO L D I NG : ON
E S C −+ E N T R

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Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.9.1 Break Detection
This setting directs the test stand to stop when a sample break has occurred. The test stand stops when
the force has decreased to a specified percentage of peak.
Default setting: OFF
Available settings: ON, OFF
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.9.2 Break Detection Activation Threshold
This setting corresponds to the force threshold after which the break detection function is active. The
threshold is provided to prevent false activation of the function during sample handling. The threshold is
defined as a percentage of full scale of the force gauge. For example, for a 50 lbF capacity force gauge, a
setting of 10% represents 5 lbF.
Default setting: 10%
Available settings: 1% - 95% (1% increments)
Label Description
+ or – Increases or decreases the value.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.9.3 Break Detection Percentage of Peak
This setting corresponds to the force trigger for break detection, defined as a percentage of peak force.
For example: A sample is pulled until 50 lbF, then breaks. The break detection percentage setting is 60%.
After the sample breaks, the force rapidly decreases to 30 lbF (60% of peak), and causes the test stand
to stop.
Default setting: 80%
Available settings: 1% - 95% (1% increments)
BR E AK D E T E C T : ON
E S C −+ E N T R
BRK T HR E S H : 8 0
%
E S C −+ E N T R
BR E AK
%
P E AK : 1 0
E S C −+ E N T R

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Label Description
+ or – Increases or decreases the value.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.10 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 received through
the serial port are ignored, except those noted in the Communication section.
PC refers to external control via serial communication. If any features are changed on the front panel,
these settings will be ignored, except for Auto Return or Cycling. If either of these features are turned
on, PC control will be turned off.
Default setting: CONSOLE
Available settings: CONSOLE, PC
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.11 Baud Rate (BAUD RATE)
This setting corresponds to the baud rate setting of the computer program controlling the test stand.
Default setting: 115200
Available settings: 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.12 Stop Bits and Parity (STOP & PAR)
This corresponds to the stop bits and parity settings of the computer program controlling the stand.
Default setting: 8-1n
Available settings:
8-1E 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, even parity
8-1o 8 data 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
CON T ROL : CON SO L E
E S C −+ E N T R
BAUD RA T E : 1 1 5 2 0 0
E S C −+ E N T R

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Label Description
+ or – Increases or decreases the value.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.13 Units of Speed (UNITS)
This setting corresponds to units of speed measurement.
Default setting: in/min
Available settings: in/min, mm/min
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.14 Programmable Button Function (KEYS)
Three button function modes are available:
1. Maintained
The crosshead will move continuously once the button has been pressed and held.
Subsequently pressing STOP will stop crosshead motion.
2. Momentary
The crosshead will move only if the button is held down. Releasing the button will stop
movement immediately.
3. Auto
Holding down the button for more than 0.5 seconds will enter momentary mode, at which time
an audible indicator 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 STOP
during maintained mode will stop crosshead motion.
Default setting: maintained
Available settings: maintained, momentary, auto
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
S T OP & P AR : 8 - 1 n
E S C −+ E N T R
UN I T S : i n /
m
i n
E S C −+ E N T R
K E Y S : M A I N T A I N ED
E S C −+ E N T R

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4.15 Return to Default Settings (DEFAULT SETTINGS)
This setting provides a quick return to factory settings, as follows:
SPEED: 10 in/min
UP SPEED: 10 in/min
DOWN SP: 10 in/min
AUTO RETURN: off
CYCLING: 00000 (off)
HI LIMIT: +12.000 / +19.000
LO LIMIT: -12.000 / -19.000
OVERLD: off
PRELOAD: off
LOAD HOLDING: off
BREAK DETECT: off
CONTROL: CONSOLE
BAUD RATE: 115200
STOP & PAR: 8-1n
UNITS: in/min
KEYS: maintained
PASSWORD: 0000 (off)
Default setting: off
Available settings: off, on
Label Description
+ or – Cycles through the available settings
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
4.16 Password (NEW PWORD)
If desired, a password can be set to prevent unwanted changes to test features. The password can be set
to any number between 0000 and 9999. The default setting of 0000 indicates that the password is
disabled, and that the user can freely enter the Test Feature Setup menu. If misplaced or forgotten, the
password may be reset through a code activation process. Details on this may be found in the Function
Activation section.
Default setting: 0000 (off)
Available settings: 0000 – 9999
Label Description
+ or – Increases or decreases the value.
ENTR Returns to the Test Feature Setup menu
ESC Exits the feature without saving changes
D E F AUL T ? : NO
E S C −+ E N T R
N E
W
P
W
ORD 0 0 0 0
E S C −+ E N T R

Model ESM301 / ESM301L Test Stand User’s Guide
18
5 OPERATING MODES
5.1 Mode Overview
The ESM301 can be operated in several modes, including combinations of these modes:
1. Basic Mode
Manual control of crosshead motion.
2. Auto Return Mode
Crosshead moves to a limit switch or force set point, travel distance, preload, or sample
break (referred to as soft limits), whichever occurs first. Then, it reverses and moves at
maximum speed to the other limit, whichever occurs first.
3. Cycling Mode
Crosshead cycles between limits at the selected speed(s), and pauses at each limit or set
point for a selected period of time.
4. Preload Mode
Crosshead moves until the preload has been reached, and performs the action programmed
in the setting. An auto-return, cycle/dwell time, or break detection sequence may follow.
5. Load Holding Mode
Crosshead moves to a force set point, stops, then dynamically adjusts position to maintain
the programmed force. An auto-return or cycle/dwell time sequence may follow.
6. Break Detection
Crosshead stops when a sample break has been detected. An auto-return or cycle/dwell time
sequence may follow.
7. PC Mode
See Communications section.
The Operating Mode home screen appears as follows:
If the travel indication option is installed, the screen appears as follows:
The item selected will be capitalized, as shown in the figure above. The set speed can be changed in
Test Feature Setup. If enabled, the up and down speeds can be configured independently of each other
(UP SPEED and DN SPEED). Otherwise, the SPEED setting corresponds to crosshead speed in both
directions.
5.2 Menu Navigation
At power-up, the display will show the operation screen for whichever mode was used last. The display
will appear as one of the following:
S P E E D : 0 . 0 0
me n u m i n max S E T
1 . 2 7 5 0 . 0 0
me n u m i n ma x S E T
TRAVEL SPEED

Model ESM301 / ESM301L Test Stand User’s Guide
19
1. Basic & Auto Return Modes (travel indication option not installed):
2. Basic & Auto Return Modes (travel indication option installed):
3. Cycling Mode (travel indication option not installed):
Note:
The min and max keys will not appear when a password has been set.
4. PC Mode
Appears the same as in Basic and Auto Return modes.
Label Description
menu Enters Test Feature Setup
min Sets speed to minimum speed. Will not appear when a
password has been set.
max Sets speed to maximum speed. Will not appear when a
password has been set.
set Sets speed to the programmed SPEED, UP SPEED, or
DN SPEED setting
Pressing menu will enter Test Feature Setup. If a password has been programmed, the display
will prompt the following:
The password is a four digit number. Press +or –to increment or decrement the number. Once
the complete password has been entered, press ENTR. If correct, the display will enter the Test
Feature Setup menu.If the password is incorrect, the display flashes “INCORRECT
PASSWORD”, and then reverts to Operating Mode.
5.3 Basic Mode
The crosshead moves upward when UP is pressed, and downward when DOWN is pressed. When the
crosshead is in motion, an LED indicator on the button pushed will be illuminated. The KEYS setting
controls how crosshead movement responds to the push of the UP and DOWN buttons. The three
settings are:
S P E E D : 0 . 0 0
me n u m i n ma x S E T
1 . 2 7 5 0 . 0 0
me n u m i n ma x S E T
C Y C L E S : 0 0 0 2 4
m
e n u
m
i n
m
a x S E T
P A S S
W
ORD 0 0 0 0
E S C −+ E N T R
TRAVEL SPEED
TRAVEL CYCLES REMAINING

Model ESM301 / ESM301L Test Stand User’s Guide
20
1. Maintained (default)
The crosshead will move continuously once the button has been pressed. Subsequently
pressing STOP will stop crosshead motion.
2. Momentary
The crosshead will move only if the button is pressed and held. Releasing the button will
stop movement immediately.
3. Auto
Holding down the button for more than 0.5 seconds will enter Momentary mode, at which
time an audible indicator 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 STOP during Maintained mode will stop crosshead motion. To resume the test,
press UP or DOWN again.
Pressing EMERGENCY STOP will immediately stop crosshead motion in any mode. To release, rotate
clockwise. To resume the test, press UP or DOWN.
Crosshead movement will take place until a limit has been reached. If the crosshead has stopped at a
soft limit, the limit condition may be overridden by pressing and holding UP or DOWN for two seconds.
5.3.1 Travel Indication
If installed, travel indication is displayed in the upper left corner of the display. The displayed units are the
same as programmed in the UNITS feature. Indicated travel is a relative value. To zero the value, press
and hold STOP for two seconds.
If the cable connecting the crosshead to the rear of the controller is unplugged, the position value will not
change when the crosshead moves.
5.3.2 Limit Switch Operation
Limit switches allow the operator to set a location along the column at which
point the crosshead will stop moving. Limit switches are located at the rear of
the test stand column, as shown in the image to the left. Adjust the switches’
positions by loosening, repositioning, and re-tightening the thumb screws. The
thumb screws must be installed after unpacking. They are shipped separately
to avoid damage in transit.
5.3.3 Overload Protection
The 09-1162 cable is required for overload protection of a Mark-10 force gauge. If overload protection is
installed and enabled, the crosshead will stop when the programmed percentage of full scale of the force
gauge has been reached.
When overload protection is enabled, if the 09-1162 cable is disconnected, and/or if the force gauge is
turned off, an error message will appear. Plug in the cable and/or turn on the force gauge to clear the
message.
Note: When the crosshead is moving in the UP direction, only the tension overload setting is active.
When the crosshead is moving in the DOWN direction, only the compression overload setting is active.