Engineering summary
Pre-training Meeting Preparation List for Shake Table Setup: engineering guidance from QuakeLogic covering earthquake engineering, applications, measure...
In this tutorial, we provide a step-by-step pre-training meeting preparation checklist for setting up the shake table effectively. Covering software installation, hardware setup, networking configuration, and safety precautions, this guide ensures a smooth setup process for users. Emphasizing the importance of familiarity with the user manual, software training resources, and troubleshooting plans, this tutorial equips users with the knowledge and tools needed to operate the shake table safely and efficiently. Whether you’re new to using the shake table or seeking to refresh your setup procedures, this guide offers valuable insights and practical tips for success.
Software Installation
- Download the EASYTEST software from the provided link sent to you in a separate email
- Ensure the Windows OS (Windows 10 or above) is installed on the designated laptop or desktop.
- Download and install the LabView runtime engine for 2015 SP1 (32-bit version) if not already installed.
- Download ANYDESK software (optional) in case if one of our team members needs to connect your computer remotely for configuration checks. ANYDESK software is available HERE.
Hardware Setup
- Connect the transformer to a 110-volt power source. (For countries which use 110-volt only)
- Plug the transformer into the shake table’s power input to convert the voltage to 220 volts. (For countries which use 110-volt only)
- Ensure proper grounding of all equipment to prevent electrical hazards.
IMPORTANT:
If your country operates on 110 volts, ensure that the back of the step-up transformer is set to 110-volt input. Then, plug the shake table’s power cable into the 220-volt output at the front of the transformer. Failing to follow these instructions could result in the shake table not functioning.
Networking Setup
- Ensure the laptop or desktop running the shake table software has a dedicated Ethernet port. IMPORTANT NOTE: DO NOT USE A USB TO ETHERNER ADAPTOR.
- Set up network settings on the Windows computer:
- Static IP: 192.168.2.5
- Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
- Connect an Ethernet cable from the computer to the shake table’s Ethernet port.
Testing Connectivity
- Verify the network connection between the computer and the shake table by pinging the shake table’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.2.32). The IP address is often written on the top of the servo-motor.
- Ensure there are no firewall or antivirus settings blocking communication between the computer and the shake table.
Entering Correct Parameters
- When you first run the EASYTEST software, be sure to input the correct stroke value in millimeters, encoder value, and maximum speed in mm/sec. These values are typically noted on top of the servo-motor.
Training Materials
- Review the provided YouTube link for training on using the EASYTEST shake table software.
- Familiarize yourself with the software interface and functionalities through the provided resources.
Safety Precautions
- Emphasize the importance of adhering to safety protocols outlined in the user manual.
- Ensure all personnel involved in the setup and operation of the shake table are aware of safety procedures and equipment handling guidelines.
- For safety, please read our related blog page HERE.
Final Checks
- Double-check all connections, settings, and software installations before proceeding with any tests or experiments.
- Confirm that all necessary equipment and materials are readily available for the training session.
By following this pre-training meeting preparation list, you’ll be well-equipped to set up and operate your shake table effectively. If you encounter any difficulties during the setup process, don’t hesitate to reach out to QuakeLogic’s technical support for assistance.
Questions?
Email us at support@quakelogic.net or call us at +1-916-899-0391.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-04
Executive Summary
Earthquake engineering connects ground motion, structural response, performance objectives, instrumentation, and post-event decision support. This article has been expanded as an engineering resource for readers evaluating earthquake engineering concepts, instrumentation choices, and monitoring workflows. The discussion is educational and should be paired with project-specific review by qualified engineers, applicable codes, owner requirements, and equipment documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Define the engineering objective before selecting sensors, test equipment, trigger thresholds, or reporting workflows.
- Use calibrated instrumentation, documented installation practices, time synchronization, and traceable data handling where measurement quality matters.
- Interpret measured data in context: site conditions, structure type, noise environment, sampling rate, bandwidth, and boundary conditions all affect conclusions.
- Use authoritative references and project-specific criteria rather than relying on generic thresholds or unsupported performance claims.
Technical Explanation
In practical earthquake engineering work, the engineering system is more than a sensor or a test platform. A credible workflow includes the measurement objective, instrument selection, mounting or boundary conditions, sampling and timing strategy, data validation, event or response detection, engineering review, and reporting. Weakness in any part of that chain can reduce confidence in the final interpretation.
For monitoring applications, engineers should document sensor orientation, coupling, environmental exposure, dynamic range, frequency bandwidth, data logger configuration, clock synchronization, communications, and maintenance procedures. For testing applications, engineers should document input motion, fixture design, payload properties, control limits, safety interlocks, acceptance criteria, and post-test data review.
Engineering Applications
| Application | Engineering Question | Typical Evidence Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Research and education | How does a structure, component, or sensor respond under controlled conditions? | Test plan, calibrated data, input motion, boundary conditions, and repeatable observations. |
| Critical infrastructure | Is the asset response normal, changing, or potentially unsafe after an event? | Baseline data, event records, thresholds, inspection workflow, and engineering sign-off. |
| Industrial facilities | Can monitoring support operational continuity and response decisions? | Site-specific criteria, reliable telemetry, alarm logic, maintenance records, and documented procedures. |
People Also Ask
What should be specified before buying equipment?
Specify the measurement objective, frequency range, amplitude range, environment, data format, timing needs, installation constraints, reporting requirements, and applicable standards or owner criteria.
Why do references and standards matter?
They provide terminology, acceptance criteria, test methods, and documentation expectations. They do not replace engineering judgment, but they reduce ambiguity and make results easier to review.
How should data quality be checked?
Review calibration status, timing, clipping, sensor orientation, signal-to-noise ratio, environmental artifacts, data completeness, and whether the record supports the engineering decision being made.
Related QuakeLogic Resources
- Why Your Organization Should Have an Earthquake Warning System?
- Affordable Shake Table: Shakebot for Engineering Research
- GN309 Intelligent Node Seismograph: Advanced Seismic Monitoring Made Simple
- Electromagnetic Shake Table: Inside QL-ATOM 25
- Related QuakeLogic products and technologies
- QuakeLogic Engineering Blog topic resources
References
Recommended Diagram or Download
Media placeholder: Add an original diagram showing the measurement chain from sensor or test platform to data acquisition, analysis, engineering interpretation, and reporting. Where this article becomes a buyer guide or application note, create a downloadable PDF version after engineering review.
Discuss a Monitoring or Testing Application
QuakeLogic supports seismic monitoring, earthquake early warning, structural health monitoring, infrasound monitoring, vibration monitoring, data acquisition, and shake table testing applications. For project-specific guidance, contact QuakeLogic with the asset type, measurement objective, site constraints, and required deliverables.
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Topic cluster
Related engineering knowledge areas
- Earthquake EngineeringSeismic hazard, ground motion, structural response, fragility, and resilience guidance.
- Structural Health MonitoringMonitoring for bridges, buildings, dams, tunnels, industrial facilities, and resilient infrastructure.
- Earthquake Early WarningOn-site detection, alerting workflows, seismic switches, and critical infrastructure warning systems.
- Seismic SensorsSeismometers, accelerometers, geophones, sensor selection, calibration, and field deployment.
Definitions and references
Terms, standards, and source cues
- seismic hazard: related to Earthquake Engineering in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- ground motion: related to Earthquake Engineering in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- SHM: related to Structural Health Monitoring in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- damage detection: related to Structural Health Monitoring in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- earthquake early warning: related to Earthquake Early Warning in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- seismic switch: related to Earthquake Early Warning in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- seismometers: related to Seismic Sensors in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
- accelerometers: related to Seismic Sensors in this QuakeLogic knowledge cluster.
Standards mentioned
- ASCE 7 seismic design/site-classification references
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