PCB Piezotronics Introduces High-Temperature Compact Probe Microphone for Automotive Testing

New model ideal for high-temperature testing in small areas within the vehicle

PCB Probe Microphone (Model 377B26)
for high temperature testing in small areas

January 20, 2014, Depew, N.Y. - PCB Piezotronics Inc. announces the launch of a new probe microphone for automotive research and design engineers who need to measure sound pressure in high temperature or small confined areas. The probe microphone (Model 377B26) is comprised of four components: microphone, preamplifier, housing and several probe tips of different lengths. Together this allows a maximum operating temperature of 800°C, which is much greater than traditional test and measurement microphones. This new design allows for sound pressure and resonant frequencies to be quantified for exhaust noise and engine analysis via a non-contact sensor on the automobile.

The probe tip diameter is extremely small, measuring 0.050" (1.3mm), allowing engineers to make measurements in small, confined areas that cannot be accessed using traditional microphones, which are much larger. The small size of the probe tip also allows near field measurements with minimal disturbance of the sound field. This enables more accurate test results.

The dynamic range of the probe is 45 dBA to 164 dB. The 20mm probe tip length has a useable frequency range of 2Hz to 20 kHz. In addition, the prepolarized design is powered by ICP® or any 2-20 mA constant current supply. This lowers the total system cost because it allows engineers to use existing 2-20mA low-cost power supplies and coaxial cables which are less costly than 200V power supplies required for externally polarized microphones. An additional benefit is interchangeability with existing ICP® accelerometers, force, and pressure sensor set-ups.

"We are very excited about the new probe microphone. The combination of the elevated temperature range and small form factor of the probe tip allows this unique microphone design to be used in a plethora of applications where traditional microphones would not be applicable" states Mark Valentino, product marketing manager for the acoustics division at PCB®.

For additional information on the new probe microphone visit www.pcb.com/SensorsforTestMeasurement/Acoustics/SpecialtyMicrophones/Probe or contact Mark Valentino, Product Manager at 888 684-0013 or via email at mvalentino@pcb.com.