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Test Pilot Digital Indicator| Model TA-1253 - Operating Manual (Legacy Product)

Sometimes referred to as a T-Pilot, the Forney TA-1253 Test Pilot Digital Indicator was a dual-channel digital display used with Forney testing machines to measure and record load and strain during compression, tension, and flexural strength testing.

Legacy Product Overview

The TA-1253 was designed as a reliable, standalone indicator to manage mechanical test data collection across a wide range of materials testing applications. It provided real-time test monitoring and data storage in a compact, easy-to-use interface.

⚠️ Note: The TA-1253 display is now obsolete and has been replaced by the TA-1258 “ForneyLink” Digital Indicator.

For details on the current replacement model, please refer to: Forneylink Touchscreen Interface for Manual Control Testing Machines

Key Features

  • Dual Load Channels: Supports two strain-gage transducers (±2 mV/V to ±4 mV/V)

  • Dual Strain Channels: For DC-DC LVDTs (±2 V to ±2.8 V)

  • LCD Digital Display: Selectable readouts for force, stress, strain, and rate

  • Data Connectivity: RS-232 serial interface for PC or printer data transfer

  • User Interface: Menu-driven setup with numeric keypad and English/Spanish language support

  • Data Storage: Up to 500 tests in internal memory

  • Automation: Automatic data logging and break detection

  • ASTM Compliance: Peak-hold and rate-deviation bar-graph modes for ASTM C39 testing

Common Applications

The TA-1253 was commonly used for:

  • Compression testing of concrete cylinders, cubes, and beams

  • Flexural testing for concrete, mortar, and similar materials

  • Tensile testing of steel rebar and other metallic specimens

Technical Specifications

Specification Description
Load Channels 2 (±2 mV/V to ±4 mV/V)
Strain Channels 2 (±2 V to ±2.8 V LVDT)
Accuracy ±0.5% of reading from 1% to full scale
Data Logging Rate 10 – 60 samples/sec (up to 18,000 points/test)
Storage Capacity 500 tests
Interface RS-232 serial port
Power 9 V DC @ 2 A (100–240 V AC adapter)
Battery Backup BR-2032 lithium (typical 5-year life)
Operating Languages English / Spanish

Transition to ForneyLink TA-1258

Forney now offers the TA-1258 ForneyLink Digital Indicator as the current standard for manual-control testing machines.

Key advantages of the TA-1258:

  • Modern touchscreen interface

  • USB and Ethernet connectivity

  • Native integration with ForneyVault®

  • Higher-resolution sensors and digital calibration

  • Simplified firmware updates and enhanced user interface

Refer to: Forneylink Touchscreen Interface for Manual Control Testing Machines

Support for Existing TA-1253 Users

Forney continues to offer:

  • Legacy documentation and manuals

  • Limited parts and service support (as available)

  • Upgrade paths to TA-1258 ForneyLink for continued operation and ForneyVault compatibility

⚙️ Upgrade Recommendation:
All new installations, calibrations, and connectivity upgrades should use the TA-1258 ForneyLink platform to ensure system reliability and future integration support.

Additional Resources