Abstract: The impulse load is usually measured by either of two methods viz . either directly with a transducer attached to the impact end , or by measuring the response on an acceleration transducer fixed on the impacted structure . The applications of these methods are often restricted in many complex circumstances or specific structures . In this paper , the impulse load is identified from the strain response and then processed by fast - Fourier - transform (FFT) and data processing , and the strain response is measured with strain gages under the load . Use of strain gages in evaluating the impulse load has the advantage as strain gages are tiny in size , light , low in price , easily attached and not in anyway aflecting the structure' s dynamic behavior . The problem of the equivalent load is also discussed .