How to Maintain a Jamar Dynamometer

The Jamar hand dynamometer uses hydraulic pressure to measure grip strength in five different handle positions. Normative values based on gender and age are provided for comparison. The measurements are available in both pounds and kilograms of force. In addition to measuring grip strength, the Jamar hand dynamometer can also be used to help determine whether a person is putting forth maximum effort during the testing process. In order to retain accurate measuring abilities, it is important to know how to properly maintain this device.

Instructions

General Maintenance

• 1

  Keep the dynamometer in the padded case when it is not in use. Use caution when setting the dynamometer down on any surface. If the dynamometer is bumped or dropped, the calibration may be compromised.

• 2

  Assess the position of the "peak-hold" needle prior to use. If it becomes dislodged, it can be replaced in the proper position by unscrewing the face piece (cover) and inserting the needle into the holding slot on the backside of the face piece.

• 3

  Check to make sure the handle is positioned in the desired slot at both ends before securing it into place.

Testing Hydraulics

• 4

  Press down on either the top or bottom post. The other post should glide upward (in the opposite direction).

• 5

  Apply grease to the posts if they do not slide easily.

• 6

  Send the device to the manufacturer to be examined for a possible leak if the posts do not glide properly.

Calibration

• 7

  Calibrate the Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer annually.

• 8

  Calibrate the Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer anytime it is suspected to be inaccurate (i.e., if the device has been bumped or dropped).

• 9

  Have the device calibrated professionally. The owner should not calibrate the dynamometer.