Learn about Effective Mass and Force/Current Ratio:Two of the most important factors in understanding the health and operability of an electrodynamic shaker system are effective mass and force/current ratio. The effective mass is always slightly different from the static mass of the armature, as it takes into account the guide bearings, flexure stiffness, and any other moving elements in the shaker system. See below to download a mini-note by Kevin McIntosh of Data Physics Corporation along with an Excel spreadsheet to use for your own measurements and calculations.