Measurement notes
Short technical notes on sensing, environmental monitoring, encoder feedback, calibration evidence, and application-driven instrument selection.
After 8 years of maintaining and replacing industrial sensors, I compare SICK, Omron, and Keyence on environmental robustness, encoder feedback, setup software, and life cycle cost. Includes lessons from the SICK DBS60, Eppendorf 5425 centrifuge, and insulation tester.
Jane SmithPractical procurement advice for SICK absolute encoders with PROFIBUS, programmable encoders, mass flowmeters, microscopes, and authorized Mitutoyo caliper sources.
Jane SmithAn admin buyer's TCO-focused FAQ on vetting SICK encoder distributors, choosing a SICK encoder DBS60e, comparing hygrometer quotes, buying a used HPLC 1260, and weighing Zeiss vs Global dental microscope options.
Jane SmithA practical FAQ for measurement and lab techs: SICK industrial sensors, the search confusion between SICK and 'sick,' real fever thermometers for high temperature, the 500-752-20 ABS IP67 caliper, fluorescence microscope buying checks, and how to clean an Eppendorf pipette.
Jane SmithTired of the 'sick thermometer with fever' confusion? A maintenance engineer shares a 5-step sensor installation checklist after 7 years and $23k in mistakes. Covers SICK programmable encoders, MR176 moisture meters, power quality analyzers, and thermal camera myths.
Jane SmithA quality compliance manager answers the most-searched questions about SICK sensors, the 'sick thermometer with fever' confusion, FLIR vs OneEdge Pro thermal cameras, Tektronix oscilloscopes, and total cost of ownership.
Jane SmithA field checklist for deciding whether to troubleshoot or replace a SICK ATM60 absolute encoder, a capacitive sensor, or a Rice Lake load cell—and why total cost matters more than sticker price.
Jane SmithProcurement manager compares budget vs. premium SICK photoelectric sensors, absolute encoders with Profibus and wire draw, repeater pipettes, and megger insulation testers. Includes how to use a megger insulation tester and a practical TCO framework for buying decisions.
Jane SmithAn emergency rush for a SICK IO-Link encoder went wrong in the best possible way. A service manager explains how a Fluke 88V Deluxe Automotive Multimeter, an inductive sensor BI4U, and a Tektronix oscilloscope exposed the real issue before a $774 mistake.
Jane SmithA maintenance engineer's confession: 14 preventable spec mistakes over 8 years, costing $46,000 — covering SICK DFS60 encoders, M30 capacitive sensors, Research Plus pipettes, and Extech multimeters, plus a reusable 10-minute pre-order checklist.
Jane Smith