I need to pick an acceleration sensor for a suspension system which will operate between frequencies 5-400Hz. Should the sensor I pick have a frequency/bandwidth response that covers the entire operating range of the system?One potential sensor I have looked at has a very limited bandwidth response (-3dB) of 360-440Hz. Will such a sensor be adequate to measure the accelerations/vibrations of the system?Any advice or help will be much appreciated! Thanks :)
Q1) Yes Q2) No, not if you expect signals from 5 to 400 Hz.
the bandwidth is the upper response usually, this means it should still report lower rates without issue. to read 400 Hz reliably and accurately the sensors should have a bit more margin than the one you state which by its spec shows its -3dB point varies from 360 to 440. The suitability depends on what you are going to use the data for. A reduced sensitivity to the highest rates may not be an issue. also watch out for sensor type, i would say a capacitive type may suite your application better as it is less susceptible to temperature and vibration effects.
