September 18, 2008 - Datastick Systems announced the BAL-2000 Balancer, a portable, USB-powered balancing system for Windows desktop and laptop computers. The single-plane or two-plane balancing system includes a phase-reference laser tachometer and one or two ICP-type accelerometers.Datastick Balancer systems include the BAL-2000 module that attaches to the USB port of the PC or laptop, one or two ICP-type accelerometers, magnetic mounts and cables, and BAL-2000 software for Windows XP or Vista.The phase-reference laser tachometer has programmable gain for optimizing performance in any environment. The visual readout shows signal level and phase tracking using an analog waveform.
An adjustable low-pass filter enhances phase signal stability. "Being a portable, stand-alone balancer and not an add-on to a vibration analyzer, the BAL-2000 enables one person to be balancing one piece of equipment while another is collecting vibration measurements elsewhere. It enables both instruments to remain simple to use," said Derek Norfield, Datastick Director of Applications and author of the book, Practical Balancing of Rotating Machinery. Norfield develops and delivers training in balancing and in vibration collection and analysis for Datastick, and works with end-users as well as consultants to provide solutions in balancing and vibration analysis." The Balancer is powered from the USB port of the laptop and uses any ICP-compatible accelerometers.
The laser photocell enables mounting the phase pickup up to two feet or even more from the shaft with the reference mark," Norfield said. "It is a Datastick product, so of course the BAL-2000 Balancer has been designed for ease of use. Simple but effective is what I like." Datastick Systems, Inc., develops cost-effective handheld test and measurement software and hardware for a broad range of industrial, environmental, commercial, research, and scientific markets.