Kistler North America (www.kistler.com), a worldwide supplier of precision sensors, systems and instrumentation for the dynamic measurement of pressure, force, torque and acceleration, has introduced the Type 8315A, a high-sensitivity, low-noise single axis MEMS capacitive accelerometer series. Incorporating the company's own K-Beam® technology, the Type 8315A is designed to measure acceleration and low-frequency vibration in the primary sensing axis within a variety of automotive, aerospace, OEM, R&D and general laboratory test applications.

The Kistler Type 8315A series is available in six different models, with measurement ranges from ±2 g to ±200 g and a frequency response of 0 to 1000 Hz (5%). The compact design provides a 1-inch (25.4 mm) footprint and incorporates a MEMS variable capacitance sensing element, consisting of a small inertial mass and flexure element sandwiched between two parallel plates. As the mass deflects under acceleration, the capacitance between the element and plates changes, which is converted to a proportional voltage by the internal analog signal conditioner. The Kistler Type 8315A series offers excellent thermal stability and reliable performance over an operating temperature range of -65°F to 250°F (-55°C to +125°C). It is powered by a single wide range supply between +6 and +50 VDC and has an internal voltage regulator. The accelerometer is shock rated to 6,000 g pk.

Models within the Kistler Type 8315A series are offered with three different housing and electrical interface options (AC, TA, TB), which determine available output signal formats. The AC option features a lightweight, hard anodized aluminum housing with environmental sealing, integral ground isolation, epoxy seal and integral PVC cable, with a maximum operating temperature of +185°F (+85°C). Available output signal formats for the AC option are bipolar at 0±4 V, single ended 2.5V±2V or differential 0±8V accelerometer outputs. Kistler Type 8315A series TA and TB options feature lightweight, welded titanium housings with choice of industry standard 4-pin, ?-28 connector or integral Teflon jacketed cable, for a fully hermetic design with integral ground isolation. The maximum operating temperature on these units is +250°F (+125°C). Available accelerometer output signal formats are bipolar at 0±4 V, single ended 2.5V±2V (both with temperature output) and differential 0±8V output. For the TA and TB options, a temperature output is provided if external compensation of output signal is desired.

Recommended optional accessories for use with the Kistler Type 8315A series include magnetic, off-ground adhesive or 10-32 screw mounting bases; a triaxial mounting cube; and various flexible, breakout, extension and output cabling options.

The Kistler Type 8315A series is suitable for a variety of R&D and OEM applications, particularly where use of an instrument-grade accelerometer for high-precision, low-frequency measurements and high-durability packaging are absolute requirements. Typical applications include low-frequency aerospace ground vibration testing; structural dynamics; automotive laboratory testing, road testing and vehicle ride assessments; structural response testing of bridges and other civil structures; seismic ground and structural testing; and R&D applications, such as human motion studies and platform motion control systems.