January 29, 2008, Depew, NY, USA – The Automotive Sensors division of PCB Piezotronics (PCB®) has released new Model 106M160 high intensity ICP^® acoustic microphone, designed for measuring airbag deployment noise and total impulse of an inflation event occurring inside of an automotive cabin. The unit offers sensitivities of 79.8 mV/kPa (550 mV/psi); a measurement range of 189 dB (57.2 kPa); 96 dB (1.4 Pa) resolution; and frequency response of 0.05 Hz to 20 kHz filtered output, tailored to the human ear. It survives higher intensity signals, up to 216 dB, that would damage most condenser microphones beyond their 3% distortion limit. The rugged, hermetically sealed, piezoelectric pressure microphone features also ICP^® output, for ease of use and reduced setup time.

Series 106 dynamic pressure sensors also include models which are ideal for measuring low-level and high-intensity sound pressure levels, acoustic and ultrasonic, with sensitivities of up to 725 mV/kPa. Sensors withstand high-static background pressures and feature solid-state construction, no moving parts, and stainless steel housings, and are well-suited for detection of rapid pressure transients, pulsations, turbulence, noise, and spikes for troubleshooting equipment and tuning processes. Applications include hydraulic and pneumatic systems, exhaust systems, compressors, turbines, pumps and pipelines, turbine engines, rocket motors, and weapons discharge. Available charge output units may be used in temperatures of up to +750 ºF (+400 ºC).