Search
Close this search box.

xStrain

Bridge Sensor Digitizer Unit

xStrain Bridge Sensor digtizer

xStrain® is a distributed bridge sensor digitizer unit for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) applications. In essence, the xStrain enables precise digitization of Wheatstone bridge sensors like strain gauges, load cells, pressure cells, and displacement sensors. More precisely, it captures microvolt‑level signals with high fidelity, ensuring accurate monitoring of structural loads, stresses, and deformations.

In the same way as the other products from the distributed family, the xStrain uses a compact and rugged IP67 enclosure. Moreover, it is optimized for permanent installations in harsh environments. On top of that, you can deploy it as a standalone unit or as part of our distributed xDAS SHM network.

It uses CAT5e cabling or wireless links, making the preventive maintenance and bridge condition monitoring very simple and easy. The integrated Voyager® software compatibility ensures seamless acquisition, storage, and reporting. Also, an analysis for bridge inspection and other SHM and condition monitoring requirements.

The xStrain unit employs a top-notch 24‑bit Delta‑Sigma ADC tailored for mV/V measurements, supporting up to 16 single‑ended channels, 8 full‑bridge channels (4‑wire), or 4 sensed full‑bridge channels (6‑wire) with voltage sense compensation. This flexibility supports accurate monitoring of strain gauges while also enabling geotechnical and civil engineering sensors with ultra‑low voltage outputs, such as load cells, pressure cells, and earth pressure transducers.

Moreover, the key design features include a built‑in anti‑aliasing filter, configurable sampling rates from 1 sps to 1000 sps, including a Store&Forward® capability for uninterrupted data acquisition. You can store the data locally on SD/eMMC in MiniSEED format or streamed in real time via Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, DigiMESH®, or GSM/4G communication. Lastly, the GPS or DigiSync® provides precise time synchronization across all connected units in a seamless condition monitoring system.

Technical Specifications

GeneralSampling Rate: 200 sps (100, 500,1000); Software filters; Ethernet, Wi-Fi, GSM Communication; Channels [mV/V]: 1/2/4; ±39.06mV to 5V; Gain: 1, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128; Excitation: 5V
PhysicalRugged aluminum enclosure, IP66/IP67; Weight: 0.7 kg; Dimensions: 130 × 120 × 65 mm
PowerInput: 12-24 VDC or PoE; Consumption: 1-2W (w/o sensor); Sensor Power Supplied from Digitizer
User InterfaceInformational LEDs; Web App Panel; System Configuration Panel
EnvironmentalOperating Tem.: -40°C to 55°C; 90% Non-Condensing

Key Features of the xStrain Bridge Sensor Digitizer:

  • High‑Precision Bridge Digitization: 24‑bit Delta‑Sigma ADC optimized for mV/V inputs, including the smallest strain and load variations.
  • Flexible Channel Configurations: Up to 16 single‑ended channels, 8 full‑bridge (4‑wire) channels, or 4 sensed full‑bridge (6‑wire) channels with sense wire compensation.
  • Broad Sensor Compatibility: Works with strain gauges, load cells, displacement sensors, pressure cells, and other Wheatstone bridge sensors.
  • Signal Quality: Built‑in anti‑aliasing filters and precision digitization at the sensor point will also reduce noise and enhance accuracy.
  • Advanced Data Handling: Store&Forward® technology prevents data loss. Additionally, it supports MiniSEED and proprietary Digitex compression formats.
  • Flexible Communication: Standard Ethernet, with optional Wi‑Fi, DigiMESH®, or GSM/4G modules for remote and distributed condition monitoring installations.
  • Configurable Sampling Rates: From 1 SPS up to 1000 SPS for both static strain monitoring and dynamic load analysis.
  • Time Synchronization: GPS or DigiSync® ensures sub‑millisecond precision across distributed SHM networks.
  • Local Storage: Optional SD/eMMC card for standalone operation with the purpose of secure event logging.
  • Device Management: Embedded web interface for easy configuration, live charting, including OTA firmware updates.
  • Rugged Design: Compact IP67 aluminum enclosure with wide operating range (‑40°C to +55°C), optimized for field deployment.
  • Low Power Operation: Very low power consumption. Also, available PoE and 12–24VDC powering options with optional backup battery.
  • Status Indicators: Informational LEDs for immediate feedback on device operation.
  • Seamless Integration: Fully compatible with xPlorer, Voyager, Nexus, and Vista software as part of the Digitex Sentry System.

The xStrain bridge sensor digitizer is purpose-built for monitoring structural strain and load in Structural Health Monitoring projects. Furthermore, it offers a broader applicability to any system utilizing bridge-based sensors. Typical applications include:

  • Bridge and building strain monitoring
  • Load measurement in structural members
  • Earth pressure monitoring and geotechnical applications
  • Pipeline and tank pressure monitoring
  • Displacement and deformation monitoring
  • Research and testing requiring precise bridge sensor digitization

Benefits of Using the xStrain:

  • Provides high‑resolution strain and load monitoring essential for SHM/condition monitoring
  • Supports diverse bridge‑based sensors, enabling flexible instrumentation
  • Reduces noise and ensures reliability with local digitization and filtering
  • Operates reliably in harsh environments with robust IP67 housing
  • Enables distributed monitoring with Ethernet, Wi‑Fi, DigiMESH®, and GSM/4G
  • Works seamlessly with the Digitex ecosystem (xPlorer, Voyager, Nexus, Vista)

Ready to Elevate Your Project?

After all, Digitex Systems deeply nurtures the partnership with engineers, researchers, and asset managers worldwide. That’s why Digitex Systems delivers reliable, field-proven Structural Health Monitoring solutions.

Additionally, if you are planning a new monitoring system or upgrading an existing installation, our team provides expert guidance tailored to your project’s requirements.

Most importantly, feel free to check our solutions focused on accuracy, reliability, and long-term performance backed by decades of experience in dams, bridges, tunnels, mines, as well as high-rise infrastructure.

worldmap home xInc

Upgrade to Digitex!

Unlock the full potential of your Structural Health Monitoring with Digitex.