Miniature Electronic Pressure Scanners
FEATURES
- Unparalleled Long Term Stability
- Advanced Digital Temperature Compensation (DTC)
- Individual Offset and Thermal Zero Compensation
- Automatically Switched Reference Pressures
- Optional Isolated Purge Capability
- Optional Temperature Sense Output
APPLICATIONS
- In-Model Windtunnel Testing
- Aircraft Flight Testing
- Automotive Track Testing
ESP Pressure Scanners are miniature electronic differential pressure measurement units consisting of an array
of silicon piezoresistive pressure sensors, one for each pressure port. The sensors are mounted on a common
hybrid glass substrate using a proprietary technique which maximizes long term stability. The outputs of the
sensors are electronically multiplexed through a single onboard instrumentation amplifier at rates up to 70,000
Hz using binary addressing. The multiplexed amplified analog output is capable of driving long lengths of cable
to a remote A/D converter.
The ESP scanners also incorporate a two position calibration manifold actuated by momentary pulses of control
pressures. When placed in the calibrate position, all sensors are connected to a common calibration pressure
port. A series of accurately measured pressures can be applied through this port to characterize the sensors,
in place, at the condition to which they are being subjected. Proper and periodic on-line calibration maintains
static errors within +/-0.03% or better of the full scale (FS) pressure range. The calibration manifold
automatically switches between two common reference pressures to ensure a stable reference is applied
during calibration. The calibration manifold incorporates a visual position indicator and utilizes a dynamic o-ring
seal design for high reliability and easy servicing in the field.
Options include purge capability, isolated from the pressure sensors, to clear measurement lines of moisture
and contamination as well as to prevent closure of model pressure taps during application of pressure sensitive
paint. Other options include a nickel foil RTD output to monitor internal scanner temperature and Digital
Temperature Compensation technology now incorporating PSI’s Gen-2 amplifier technology.
The Digital Temperature Compensation (DTC) option incorporates the latest PSI innovations in ESP technology
including temperature signal outputs from each silicon pressure sensor, embedded EEPROM retaining factory
calibration information including temperature characteristics, programmable dual gain amplifier with optional
dual range calibration, calibration manifold position sensing, and internal sensor excitation regulation with
sense output. DTC Series ESP scanners are supported by PSI’s DTC Initium System and the SDI
configuration of the System 8400 to dramatically reduce calibration requirements. The ESP scanners are also
supported bya variety of third party compatible systems.