ACCELEROMETER SELECTION CONSIDERATIONS Charge and Integral Electronic Piezo Electric

Charge amplifier systems benefit from the very wide dynamic range of PE accelerometers by offering flexibility in adjusting the electrical output characteristics such as sensitivity and range. They are well suited for operation at high temperatures. Modern charge systems feature improved low noise operation, simplified digital controls, and dual mode operation for operation with charge or IEPE voltage mode sensors. high impedance circuitry is not well suited for operation in adverse field or factory environments. The resolution of a PE accelerometer may not be specified or known since noise is a system consideration determined by cable length and amplifier gain. IEPE accelerometrs operate from a constant current power source, provide a high-voltage, low-impedance, fixed mV/g output. They operate through long, ordinary, coaxial cable in adverse environments without degradation of signal quality. They have limited high temperature range. IEPE sensors are simple to operate. Both resolution and operating range are defined specifications. Cost perchannel is lower compared to PE systems since low-noise cable and charge amplifiers are not required.