Difference between accelerometer and vibration sensor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between accelerometers and vibration sensors, particularly in the context of their applications and functionalities. Participants explore the technical distinctions and the specific use cases for each type of sensor.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the differences between accelerometers and vibration sensors, seeking clarification on whether accelerometers can detect vibrations.
  • Another participant suggests that there is no real difference, stating that a vibration sensor is essentially an application of an accelerometer and recommends looking into vibration analysis equipment providers.
  • A later reply elaborates that older vibration sensors measured position or velocity, while newer ones utilize MEMS accelerometers to detect vibrations, highlighting differences in signal processing and firmware.
  • This reply also notes that accelerometer-based vibration sensors capture acceleration data at high rates and use digital signal processing to filter out noise, indicating different focuses in their applications.
  • It is mentioned that the processing for accelerometers used for general acceleration detection differs from that of those specifically designed for vibration detection, with the latter prioritizing low-frequency accelerations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and agreement regarding the distinctions between accelerometers and vibration sensors. Some see them as fundamentally different based on application and processing, while others argue they are closely related, leading to an unresolved discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the definitions and applications of accelerometers versus vibration sensors, and there are indications of differing interpretations of their functionalities and signal processing methods.

rama1001
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I have searched on web but i did not get exact explanation on about these topics. Could someone clear me. I am looking for accelemeter to my pump that can get the information about vibrations.
 
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There's not a real difference, but a vibration sensor is one application for an accelerometer. Have a look around for some vibration analysis equipment providers.
 
Still, i am in confustion and can not able to figure out the difference. Can some one point out the difference here?

Does accelerometer detect the vibrations?
 
rama1001 said:
Still, i am in confustion and can not able to figure out the difference. Can some one point out the difference here?

Does accelerometer detect the vibrations?
The difference is in the firmware.

Older vibration sensors sensed position or velocity. Newer ones tend to use a MEMS accelerometer to detect vibrations. Accelerometer-based vibration sensors often capture acceleration data at a high rate. The built-in DSP uses a band pass filter to eliminate the very high frequency noise and to eliminate the low frequency accelerations that are of little interest when it comes to detecting vibrations.

A MEMS accelerometer that is used as an accelerometer will use different signal processing compared to a MEMS accelerometer that is targeted to detect vibrations. Here it is the low frequency accelerations that are of primary interest. When it comes to detecting acceleration, the vibrations are just noise that are best eliminated at the source.
 

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