ForceDecks Setup Considerations

The following information will help you determine where to setup your ForceDecks.

ForceDecks plates can be mounted on:

  • Steel bases;
  • Set into weightlifting platforms; or
  • Used freestanding on any flat, hard surface

Floor considerations

ForceDecks are designed to be mobile, however it is important ForceDecks are mounted on a surface that is:

  • As rigid as possible; and
  • As flat as possible;

For example, concrete floors are ideal, whereas sprung floors are not suitable.

Rebounding vibrations or “ringing” may occur if the platform is mounted on the wooden section of some Olympic lifting platforms.

If you are unsure about the rigidity of the floor you can check for vibrations by examining a force-time trace or by sending a recording to support@vald.com for assessment.

We also recommend using a spirit level to identify an even part of your floor and marking out the space if you are planning to move the plates.

Space considerations

If embedding the force plates into the ground or into a raised lifting platform, it is important to leave adequate space around the plates to prevent contact with the surrounding walls and to allow access to cables.

Preventing Crosstalk
Crosstalk is the unwanted transfer of force between plates. This can occur when two plates are in contact, potentially resulting in inaccurate readings.

It is important to leave a small gap between the left and right plate to minimise interference and a small gap between the outside edge of the safety frame or casing if applicable.

Cable Configuration
The ForceDecks system consists of a ‘Primary’ plate and a ‘Secondary’ plate. 

It is important to ensure cables between the plates and power source are routed to prevent them being stepped on or caught underneath the plate, as this can cause instability, potentially affect measurements and/or damage the cables. 

Bluetooth connection

Due to the quantity of data that ForceDecks measures errors can sometimes occur when the Bluetooth connection is not strong enough to carry all of the data. 
Ensure there are minimal obstructions between the force plates and your Windows or iOS device. 
The wireless Bluetooth signal is weakened when it has to travel through physical obstructions. For instance, walls, concrete floors, and metal squat racks are common examples of physical obstructions that can be between force plates and your capture device that weaken the Bluetooth signal.

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