Question

"I plan to integrate an Isotron® (IEPE) accelerometer into a system and would like to provide my own current source. Can you offer some suggestions?"

Answer

Yes, there are several ways to implement a current source for IEPE accelerometers. We would suggest the circuit provided below:

Figure 1

This circuit uses a readily available LM317T IC and the resistors and capacitor are also available from most electronic parts distributors. The input voltage should be at least 30 volts and should come from a clean, regulated power supply. This circuit provides 4 mA which is suitable for most IEPE accelerometers and Remote Charge Converters. The 47 μF capacitor is to decouple the DC voltage from the data acquisition system.