In high-reliability industries like aerospace, defense, and industrial diagnostics, precise vibration measurements are essential. But verifying and maintaining that accuracy depends on using the right tool and that’s where accelerometer calibrators and simulators come into play.
While they’re often mentioned together, calibrators and simulators serve different purposes. Misunderstanding the distinction can lead to incorrect testing methods, wasted time, or even compromised data quality.
This blog will help you understand the difference between accelerometer simulators and calibrators, compare key specifications, and identify the best use case for each.
Calibrator vs. Simulator: Understanding the Tools
Let’s start with a quick breakdown:
| Tool | Primary Function | Involves Real Sensor? |
| Accelerometer Calibrator | Physically validates accelerometer output using controlled vibration | Yes |
| Accelerometer Simulator | Generates synthetic voltage or charge signals to mimic accelerometer behavior | No |
- A calibrator physically shakes the sensor and compares its output to a known reference. It’s the only method for truly verifying sensor accuracy.
- A simulator (like the MTI Instruments 1510A or 1520) does not use or excite a sensor. Instead, it mimics the output of an accelerometer to test or calibrate data acquisition systems, amplifiers, or monitoring equipment.
Important Note: The MTI 1510A or 1520 is not an accelerometer calibrator. It is a signal simulator used to verify or calibrate the devices that interpret accelerometer signals not the accelerometers themselves.
When to Use a Calibrator
Use an accelerometer calibrator when you need to:
- Validate the actual performance of the sensor
- Ensure sensor sensitivity matches spec (e.g., 100 mV/g)
- Maintain compliance with ISO 17025 or ISO 16063-21
- Perform regular recalibrations for QA or regulatory audits
How it works: The sensor is mounted on a shaker table or vibration exciter. A reference sensor is used to compare the test unit’s output. Adjustments or documentation follow based on deviation from expected behavior.
Calibrators vs. Simulators: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Calibrator | Simulator (e.g., 1510A / 1520) |
| Involves Physical Motion | Yes | No |
| Validates Sensor Accuracy | Yes | No (validates signal chain instead) |
| Tests DAQs / Electronics | Limited | Yes |
| NIST Traceable Output | Yes | Yes (for simulator output) |
| ISO 17025 Calibration Support | Yes | For simulator output, not sensors |
| Portability | Usually lab-based | Compact and battery-powered |
| Output | Real vibration | Simulated voltage or charge signal |
Specifications to Look for in a Simulator
If you’re selecting a signal simulator like the MTI 1510A or 1520, here’s what matters:
Output Capabilities
- Voltage output (mV/g equivalents)
- Charge output (pC/g equivalents)
- Adjustable ranges (e.g., ±10V, 9,999 pC)
Frequency Range
- Typically 0.1 Hz to 20 kHz
- Up to 100 kHz for high-end devices (e.g., MTI 1520)
Accuracy and Stability
- Voltage accuracy: ±0.05%
- Frequency accuracy: ±0.005%
- Temperature-stable output
Signal Quality
- Low noise and distortion
- High resolution (down to 0.1 mV or pC)
Additional Simulator Features That Add Value
- Dual-channel output for testing multiple signal paths or phase analysis
- Waveform generation: sine, square, triangle, pulse, and custom waveforms
- Sweep and jog modes for dynamic system testing
- Tachometer simulation and bridge output options
- Remote access via WiFi/Bluetooth
- Touchscreen interface for ease in field environments
Use Cases Across Industries
Aerospace
- Simulate vibration signals during ground testing
- Validate health monitoring systems without running engines
Military/Defense
- Test embedded electronics in UAVs or mobile systems
- Use simulators for system readiness checks without deploying sensors
Industrial & Energy
- Simulate sensor failure or high-vibration alarms
- Run signal path diagnostics before startup or during shutdown
What to Avoid: Misapplying the Tools
It’s critical not to confuse simulators with calibrators:
You cannot use the 1510A or 1520 to verify the accuracy of an accelerometer.
You can use them to verify that the system reading the accelerometer behaves as expected under simulated conditions.
For true accelerometer calibration, use a mechanical shaker or a certified calibration lab.
Final Takeaways: What to Use and When
| If You Need To… | Use This Tool |
| Validate sensor accuracy and sensitivity | Accelerometer Calibrator |
| Test or calibrate a DAQ system | Accelerometer Simulator |
| Simulate a known vibration signal | Accelerometer Simulator |
| Meet ISO 17025 calibration requirements for sensors | Accelerometer Calibrator |
| Perform field diagnostics without motion | Accelerometer Simulator |
MTI Instruments 1510A and 1520: Signal Simulation You Can Trust
Looking to simulate accelerometer signals with precision in the lab or the field?
The MTI Instruments 1520 and 1510A are not accelerometer calibrators but they are powerful signal simulators built to help engineers validate and calibrate everything that comes after the sensor.
With high accuracy, flexible waveform generation, and rugged portability, these tools are ideal for aerospace, military, industrial, and energy applications.
