This study presents a method to monitor cable force using an Imote2/SHM-DAQ sensor node and a PZT sensor. The following approaches are carried out to achieve the objective. Firstly, the principle of piezoelectric material (e.g., PZT) as a strain sensor is reviewed. According to its piezoelectric features, the use of PZT sensor for strain measurement of a stay cable is presented. Secondly, the design of the data acquisition sensor node Imote2/SHM-DAQ is described. The sensor node is used to monitor strain-induced voltage from the PZT sensor. The advantages of the system are cheap, and enable for wireless communication and automated operation. Finally, the feasibility of the sensing system is evaluated on a lab-scale stay cable.