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Making sure ground control sensors are telling the truth

Alan

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You’re about to head underground, and as you glance at the monitor, you can’t help but wonder if those numbers are still on point. Before you put your trust in them for your shift, what quick checks, simple tests, or calibration tricks do you rely on to ensure that the ground control sensors are accurate and not just taking wild guesses?
 
Always kick off my shift with a quick manual check using a tape measure. Compare it to what the sensors are showing. If there's a discrepancy of more than an inch or two, I know something's off. Just last month, I caught a faulty proximity sensor this way before it turned into a bigger issue
 
I give the sensors a little tap and watch for any erratic readings. If they’re stable, you’re in the clear. But if the numbers are all over the place, that sensor is likely shot or the wiring might be loose. It’s a quick and effective test that never fails me.
 
Make sure to zero out your sensors at a known reference point at the start of each shift. It only takes about thirty seconds, but it saves you from dealing with drift later on. Also, keep an eye out for any error codes when you start up, those systems usually give you a heads-up if the calibration is off.
 
Before heading down do a quick test. Move the bucket up and down all the way and check the numbers. If they change smoothly with the bucket the sensors are good. If anything freezes or glitches, fix it first.
 
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