Interface 101 highlights the side force effect, side load sensitivity, and eccentric load sensitivity. Side load sensitivity is how a load cell's output is influenced by a side force. It reveals the load cell's sensitivity to forces applied off its intended axis. A side force effect in compression testing with load cells refers to a force applied perpendicular to the intended axial compression force. This can happen due to misalignment between the load cell under test and the testing machine's loading plates.