Feature

Hydrophone range extended with 2 and 4mm diameter probes

Precision Acoustics has expanded its pressure measurement range with new 2mm and 4mm diameter needle hydrophones that provide much higher sensitivity at frequencies below 1MHz.

20/09/2015 13:58:38

Although primarily aimed at applications such as underwater acoustics and characterisation of low frequency transducers, the new probes also suit frequencies above 1MHz where very weak signals need to be measured. The frequency range is sufficiently broad that the new 4mm hydrophone has been calibrated from 30kHz to 40MHz by the National Physical Laboratory.

The new needle hydrophones can be used with the company's HP Submersible preamplifier that provides immediate signal buffering and acts as a precision 50Ohm source for the hydrophone system.

The larger active areas of these devices provide much greater sensitivity (7V/MPa for the 4mm probe, 2.5 V/MPa for the 2mm probe). As a result, these new devices have a lower noise equivalent pressure than the existing range of plug-in interchangeable probes that have diameters from 40 microns to 1mm.

These hydrophones can also be used conjunction with the A20 in-line attenuator to permit the measurement of higher amplitude signal whilst minimising the risk of preamplifier overload.

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.