The new Type 8278A miniature, high temperature, high impedance accelerometer from Kistler Instruments can be used to test lightweight structures with minimum mass loading. The single axis sensor comprises an annular shear piezoceramic element in a hard-anodised aluminium housing. At only 700mg, the Type 8278A is light but highly robust, it operates over a wide temperature range of minus75°C to plus 180°C and can survive mechanical shocks of up to 10,000g. The exceptionally low sensitivity to base strain errors from bending of the mounting surface ensures reliable and accurate response even when mounted on flexible structures and materials.
The 8278A provides a high frequency response of 10,000 Hz (±5 %) and 1.3 pC/g sensitivity. As a high impedance accelerometer, its output range is easily scaled with external electronics whilst the integral ground isolation protects signal quality against degradation by electrical noise and ground loops.
For convenience of use, the 8278A is mounted with adhesive and supplied with its own wrench for safe removal. The unique cable connector design ensures a reliable electrical connection; proof against shock and vibration and allows the cable to be replaced cost effectively by Kistler.