Issue #103, May 2016
This month, we focus on the acoustic side of sensing.  From standards, to safe handling, to understanding microphone calibration, you can learn more below.  The experts at The Modal Shop and PCB are committed to helping you achieve your measurement goals and, as such, are pleased to bring you another month of technical content to support your success.
Understanding Microphone Standards
Based on PCB Piezotronics Microphone Handbook

Prior to selecting a microphone or other acoustic test hardware, the consumer should determine whether there are certain standards that the product must comply with for the application in which the product will be used. Whether for legal purposes, or for quality assurance programs, these standards will help determine the quality, accuracy and consistency of the products.
Microphone - Safe Handling and Maintenance 

Test and measurement microphones are very delicate instruments. Learn how to protect and maintain your microphones by following these safe practices and maintenance recommendations.
Tip of the Month

An ICP� preamplifier and precision prepolarized condenser microphone significantly reduces per channel cost, allows for ordinary coaxial cables and has an equivalent resolution to traditional acoustic measurement channels of a condenser microphone, preamplifier and laboratory power supply with polarization voltage.  The compromise in the voltage swing only affects the high end of the dynamic range reducing it by about 10 dB, making ICP operation a preferred and common choice in general purpose acoustic applications.  Calibration is simplified through use of The Modal Shop's  Precision Acoustic Workstation Model 9350C.   

Blast from the Past:
Why is it Important to Calibrate My Microphones?

Regular (daily) calibration checks establish a record of the operation of your instrumentation; not for just the sensor, but the entire measurement chain. This is important as cabling and other parts of the measurement chain may wear out, and a recent calibration check for comparison can help rule out a faulty sensor. Calibration also helps to establish the level of uncertainty associated with the measurements. It gives a historical account of the sensor's performance, and the...
Thanks for joining us for another issue of Dynamic Sensors & Calibration Tips. As always, please speak up and let us know what you like. We appreciate all feedback: positive, critical or otherwise. Take care!

TMS 25 Years
Sincerely,
Aaron Goosman - Eric Seller - Mike Dillon - Patrick Timmons - Shannon Henize

Calibration Team
The Modal Shop, Inc.
A PCB Group Company
calnews@modalshop.com
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