Resolution (Force Measurement)
Definition
Resolution determines how finely an instrument can read a measurement. A Dillon AP 5-inch dial dynamometer rated at 1,000 kg x 10 kg has a capacity of 1,000 kg and a resolution of 10 kg — the smallest distinguishable reading is 10 kg. Resolution is a function of instrument design, and for mechanical dynamometers it is typically a fixed ratio of capacity. For electronic instruments like the EDJR or EDxtreme, resolution is significantly finer because digital processing eliminates parallax and pointer-reading errors. High resolution is critical in applications where small force variations matter — such as QC pull testing. Lower resolution may be acceptable in applications where approximate force confirmation is sufficient, such as verifying that a line has reached a safe minimum tension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Resolution (Force Measurement) Matters
How Dynamic Measurement Uses It
Resolution is displayed directly in Dillon product names — the 'x [increment]' notation (e.g., '1000 kg x 10 kg') shows both capacity and resolution at a glance. For buyers who need precision documentation, DMS recommends the EDJR or EDxtreme electronic series, which provide significantly finer resolution than mechanical AP models at the same capacity. DMS's technical staff can match resolution requirements to application needs during product selection.