Every object that moves is experiencing acceleration, but not every movement requires one type of accelerometer to measure it. For applications that involve vibration, the type of accelerometer you need depends on the requirements of your project.
For Low Vibration Sensing
Force-balanced sensors use a pendulum and torque motor and MEMS accelerometers use chip-based technology to measure acceleration in ranges to ±40G with a resolution of up to 1 µg. Some MEMS units have a bandwidth of 400 Hz which means they can be used for low-level vibration monitoring, but not higher levels.
The low bandwidth for these accelerometers is intended to prevent outside vibration from interfering with their acceleration readings. The force-balanced sensors are fluid-damped and the MEMS use microcontrollers and low-pass filters to keep their frequencies low.
These types of accelerometers can be used on a variety of projects. Some applications include aerospace or automobile testing, train controls, wind turbine maintenance, and sea state monitoring. If the level of vibration in your project is greater than 400Hz, a different type of accelerometer may be what you need.
For High Vibration Sensing
You may come across a project that includes a higher level of vibration from what a force-balanced or MEMS sensor can offer. When the frequency of your project is greater than 400 Hz, you will need a sensor that is specifically meant for high vibration measurement. Piezoelectric sensors are designed based on the concept that voltage induced by pressure is proportional to the acting pressure. Using this method, the sensor can measure single or repetitive pressures such as vibration.
If your application demands a level of vibration no greater than 400 Hz, a force-balanced or MEMS accelerometer is a useful solution. To compare all MEMS accelerometer models side-by-side, view the product selector guide.