m+p VibRunner Measurement Hardware

The hardware platform is ideal for projects such as engine test cells, where high data throughput is important; large structures where distributed inputs reduce sensor cabling; large channel count requirements such as sensitive satellite pre-flight testing; or simply where a wide range of testing needs demand the ultimate flexibility in test system configuration.

m+p VibRunner provides maximum modularity. The basic unit is a 19“ mainframe that houses up to three front-mounted functional modules. The 1U mainframe can be equipped with feet for use as a desktop instrument or with mounting brackets for 19“ rack mounting. m+p VibRunner is completely equipped for standalone operation. It has its own power supply with both multi-range AC and DC inputs. Cooling is performed by a high-quality, silent fan whose speed is temperature-controlled. For sensitive noise measurements the fan can be turned off from the host PC.

For applications requiring a high number of measurement channels, data acquisition over multiple m+p VibRunner systems will be exactly synchronized. This is made possible by making the master clock available to all slave mainframes. For measurements of large objects the m+p VibRunner systems can be placed close to the measuring points which minimizes costly transducer cabling.

The 1 Gbit/s Ethernet interface is used for communications with the host PC. To ensure safe and fast communication even when a high number of input channels are utilized, the m+p VibRunner hardware is integrated into its own subnet which is independent of other networks.

Each m+p VibRunner instrument has a digital interface with 8 inputs and 8 outputs (5 V TTL). These inputs/outputs enable engineers to directly execute control functions for combined environmental tests or for parallel functional tests of the specimen.

m+p VibRunner provides high-precision measurement capability and outstanding real-time performance. With 24-bit sigma-delta A/D converters with up to 204.8 kHz sampling rate, it allows for alias-protected measurements in a frequency range up to 80 kHz and more than 120 dB spurious-free dynamic range. Input ranges are selectable from 100 mV to 20 V_pk, low noise and selectable high-pass input filtering allow for versatile acoustic measurements and pyro-shock capture.

The 8-channel bridge module enables experimental stress analysis and structural testing. It contains quarter-, half-, and full-bridge support.

Additional m+p VibRunner modules provide analog outputs for vibration testing or modal analysis applications requiring a drive signal for the shaker. High-precision 24-bit D/A converters are sampled by the master clock in the same way as the A/D converters on each input to ensure the excellent phase stability of the measurements. In case of emergency, the source signal will be ramped down in a controlled manner to avoid damage to the specimen or the test equipment. This automatic, analog shutdown circuitry guarantees the highest safety possible during the test.

Specifications

m+p VibRunner Measurement Hardware for Noise and Vibration Engineering and Data Acquisition

• Desktop instrument or 19” rack-mounted system, 1U high, 3 slots for modules, rugged steel frame
• Silent operation, temperature-controlled fan
• Multi-range AC power supply and DC power supply
• Precise synchronization of multiple m+p VibRunner frontends by means of daisy chain connection and master clock
• Ethernet interface, 1 Gbit/s transfer rate
• Separate, secure subnet independent from other networks
• DSP powered real-time processing
• 8-24 analog input channels per m+p VibRunner, 24 bits, 204.8 kHz max. sampling rate per channel, differential and single-ended measurements
• TEDS support
• IEPE support
• 8-channel bridge measurement module
• 2-12 differential source output channels per m+p VibRunner, 24 bits, safety shutdown
• 2-12 tacho inputs per m+p VibRunner for rotating machinery applications
• 8 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs for combined environmental tests or parallel functional tests