HOW TO EVALUATE LOOMIA FORCE SENSITIVE RESISTORS (FSRs)
Reliable testing methods for accurate pressure sensor evaluation.
Learn how to test Loomia force-sensitive resistors using Arduino setups, laboratory equipment, and controlled testing techniques for consistent results.
User Validation Instructions
The instructions below will help you set up and validate your sensors.
Materials Required:
Computer with Arduino Installed
Breadboard
Arduino
Loomia Pressure Matrix
Alligator clips to breadboard components
680 ohm resistors
Breadboarding jumper wires
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 |
Use example schematics to set up a sensor with pull-down resistors. You can use alligator clips
or soldering to connect to an Arduino.
|
| 2 | Plug in the Arduino and open our code samples from the relevant product page (loomia.com/samples). |
| 3 |
Click “Serial Monitor” and make sure every quadrant is in the correct order by pressing a finger on each quadrant.
R1C1 = Quadrant 1 R1C2 = Quadrant 2 R1C3 = Quadrant 3 R2C1 = Quadrant 4 R2C2 = Quadrant 5 R2C3 = Quadrant 6 R3C1 = Quadrant 7 R3C2 = Quadrant 8 R3C3 = Quadrant 9 
Matrix example quadrant 1 readout — values should increase with force.
Single FSR serial monitor example
|
| 4 | For more accurate testing, use static weights to evaluate the force response for these sensors. |
Additional Evaluation Notes
Resistor testing:
Test different resistor values to eliminate noise while keeping sensitivity
Sensor Backing
Removing the PSA backing and sticking the sensor to your surface can increase sensitivity
Multimeter vs Arduino testing:
Sensors can also be evaluated with a multimeter for easier setup
Software
Loomia has sample scripts available to help you evaluate sensors. All scripts are available on our sensor product pages at Loomia Samples Store. L
Visualization Software:
Loomia’s visualization software focuses on pressure matrix visualization. It allows for one-click validation and a serial-port view for easy data export. This visualization software is only available for Windows computers.
Software Matrix Visualization View
Software Raw Serial Data View
Testing Loomia FSRs - FAQ
-
To validate your sensor setup, you will need:
A computer with Arduino installed
An Arduino board
A breadboard
A Loomia pressure matrix or single FSR
680 ohm resistors
Breadboarding jumper wires
Alligator clips (optional)
-
Use the example schematics to set up the sensor with pull-down resistors. The sensor can be connected to an Arduino using alligator clips or soldered connections.
-
After uploading the example code and opening the Serial Monitor, press each quadrant individually. The output should correspond to the correct row and column (R1C1 through R3C3). Values should increase as more force is applied.
-
For more precise validation, use static weights to evaluate the force response of the sensor instead of relying only on finger pressure.
-
You can test different resistor values to balance sensitivity and noise reduction during evaluation.
-
Yes. The sensors can also be evaluated using a multimeter for a simpler setup during initial testing.
For other questions, contact our team at Loomia.