GageWay FAQs

Gage interfaces are an easy-to-use, cost-effective solution for connecting one or more gages to a single computer.  They require physical cables to connect each gage so are best used in situations where gage mobility is not a requirement.  If you need gage mobility beyond 2 meters (6 feet), you should consider a wireless solution instead.

Most companies beginning data collection use an internally designed Excel spreadsheet or Access database.  In this case, use a GageWay KW and compatible gage cable to connect your gage to the computer for under $200.  We recommend contacting MicroRidge or one of our resellers to discuss your needs and identify the best solution for your situation and budget.

The GageWay interface line consists of the GageWay SM, the GageWay KW and the GageWay Pro models.

GageWay SM
Single gage interface used to send data to programs that can monitor a COM port for incoming gage data.  We offer two models – the GageWay SM-U for USB and the GageWay SM-R for DB9 serial computer connection.

GageWay KW
Single gage interface with “keyboard wedge” output.  Used to send data to programs that cannot monitor a COM port (example: Microsoft Excel or Access).  It converts the incoming data into the “keystroke” format required by these programs.  USB computer connection only.

GageWay Pro
Multiple gage interfaces (2-port, 4-port, & 8-port), these models offer outputs compatible with dedicated SPC applications and with programs requiring the keyboard wedge function.  USB and DB9 serial computer connections are available.

General purpose programs like Excel are designed to receive data from the computer keyboard.  To get gage data into these programs, it must first pass through a “keyboard wedge” function that makes Excel think that data is being entered from the keyboard.  All GageWay Pro interfaces include a USB “keyboard wedge” output.  Using this connection to the computer allows the data to go into Excel automatically.

GageWay supports a wide variety of gage brands and models from Mitutoyo, Mahr Federal, Ono Sokki, Fowler, INSIZE, Starrett, Sylvac, Ohaus, Mettler Toledo, and many others.  Connect handheld gages (calipers, micrometers), stationary gages (height gages, digital indicators), plus scales or other devices with either digital or RS-232 output.

GageWay interfaces can send gage data to any Windows spreadsheet, database, dedicated SPC program, or statistical program (Minitab, LabVIEW).  Data can also be sent into web or cloud-based applications.