Signal preamplifier PAS3

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Description
The PAS3 is a broadband acoustic emission (AE) preamplifier designed to amplify low‑level voltage signals from AE sensors before transmission to an acquisition unit. It provides selectable gains, multiple analog filter ranges and both single‑ended and differential inputs, ensuring compatibility with common AE sensors and acquisition cards.

Functional Description

• Input switch: select between "Single" input (left) or "Differential" input (right).
• Differential input: BNC connector for differential sensors.
• Gain switch: selectable gains (40 dB | 20 dB | 60 dB positions; internal settings allow finer gain steps).
• Filter knob: choose one of four analog filter ranges: 5 kHz–1.2 MHz | 80 kHz–480 kHz | 5 kHz–160 kHz | 5 kHz–50 kHz.
• Attenuation switch: 0 dB (left) or -6 dB (right).
• Single input: port for single‑core sensors (most common sensors).
• Power port: connect external DC adapter when phantom power from AE system is not used (DC 18–32 V).
• Power indicator: illuminates when powered (phantom or DC).
• Signal output: BNC output of amplified and filtered AE signal; supports phantom power from AE acquisition systems.
• Magnetic base: optional magnets available for easier mounting on metal surfaces (select at order).

Main Features

• Broadband universal preamplifier compatible with most AE sensors and acquisition cards.
• Selectable preamp gain (14, 20, 34, 40, 54, 60) with fine tuning via 0 dB / -6 dB attenuation on select gains.
• Built‑in analog filter with four selectable frequency ranges for application flexibility.
• Support for single‑ended and differential inputs.
• Two power options: phantom power via signal line or external DC supply.
• Protection against electrical shock and recovery from blocking conditions.
• Automatic Sensor Testing (AST) to emit test signals to sensors (requires compatible software such as SWAE).
• Input/output reverse protection with indicator (green = correct connection).
• Cast aluminum housing for EMI shielding and mechanical protection.
• Optional magnetic bottom shell for mounting on metal structures.

Technical Specifications

• Gain: 20 / 40 / 60 dB (selectable; additional internal settings available)
• Attenuation: 0 / -6 dB
• Response frequency: 5 kHz – 1,200 kHz
• Equivalent noise: <7 µV (RMS at 60 dB gain)
• Filter ranges: 5 kHz–50 kHz; 5 kHz–160 kHz; 80 kHz–480 kHz; 5 kHz–1,200 kHz
• Maximum transient output: 20 Vpp
• Maximum steady‑state output: 13.6 Vpp
• Board supply: 7.5 V – 32 V; DC supply: 18 V – 32 V
• Output impedance: 50 Ω
• Operating temperature: -20 °C to +60 °C
• Housing material: Cast aluminum
• Dimensions (L×W×H): 10.5 cm × 5.5 cm × 7 cm
• Weight: 483.7 g
• Protection rating: IP65