Sensing Solutions for Earthquake and Microtremor Observation
Do You Have Any of These Challenges?
- "I want to measure earthquakes and microtremors easily."
- "I want to move away from heavy and bulky equipment and use a more compact system."
- "I want to keep the total cost as low as possible."
⇒ Epson’s Quartz Accelerometers offer an effective solution.
Why Choose Quartz Accelerometers?
1. Ultra-Low Noise Performance Below NHNM
Thanks to Epson's proprietary quartz-based acceleration sensing element, these sensors achieve low noise, high resolution, and high stability.
They feature noise performance that is below the USGS New High Noise Model (NHNM) (M-A370).
2. Compact, Lightweight, and 3-Axis Measurement
Despite their high performance, embedded-type sensors are about the size of an eraser and weigh approximately 30 g. A single sensor supports 3-axis (X, Y, Z) measurement, enabling compact and lightweight system design even when multiple sensors are installed.
3. Smart Measurement Without an A/D Converter
With digital output, no A/D converter is required.
Sensors can be connected directly to a PC via USB, enabling simple and space-saving measurements.
4. Ready to Use with Free Software
Epson provides free measurement and data analysis software. Intuitive operation allows for smooth and quick initial evaluation.
5. Synchronized Measurement with Multiple Units
Equipped with an external trigger input, synchronized measurement across multiple sensors is possible using a signal generator.
This enables advanced applications such as microtremor array measurements.
6. Proven Adoption in JMA-Certified Products
Epson quartz accelerometers are used in a wide range of earthquake and microtremor instruments, including systems that have passed Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) certification.
7. Effectiveness Proven in Academic Research
Field measurements conducted by multiple research institutions have confirmed the effectiveness of quartz accelerometers in seismic observation and microtremor measurement applications.
Measurement Tools and System Configuration Examples
How Can You Easily Evaluate Sensors Using a PC?
Epson provides Vibration Data Logger, software that allows easy measurement using your existing PC. Measured data can also be analyzed with Vibration Data Viewer, which supports FFT and filtering.
How Can You Build a Compact, Permanently Installed Measurement System?
Epson offers logger software and system design examples using Raspberry Pi. This solution supports permanent installation and long-term measurement, which may be difficult with PC-based systems.
Adopted Products
Epson quartz accelerometers are widely adopted in various seismometers and microtremor instruments, including seismic intensity meters that have passed Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) certification. Both wired and wireless, as well as portable and permanently installed, products are available to match different applications and use cases.
View list of adopted products.
Use Cases
Recommended Sensors
We introduce products suitable for earthquake and microtremor measurement.
For more detailed information, please feel free to contact us.
Key Features of Epson Quartz Accelerometers
- Low noise, high resolution, high stability, and 3-axis measurement
- Noise performance below the USGS New High Noise Model (M-A370)
- Multi-node synchronization via external trigger (M-A370)
| Product Name |
Brief sheet |
Size [mm] |
Weight [g] |
Type | Interface | Detection axis |
Output Mode Selection (each axis) |
Output Dynamic Range |
Noise Density [μG/√Hz] |
Bias Temperature Error [mG] |
Bias Repeatability [mG] |
Frequency Response Characteristics [Hz] |
Power Consumption [mA] |
Power Supply [V] |
Operating Temp [℃] |
Material | Host Connector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M-A370AD10 |  |
 48 x 24 x 16 |
29 | Built-in | SPI/UART | 3 | Acceleration/Tilt Angle | Acceleration:±10G Tilt Angle:±1.047 rad(±60deg) |
0.02 (1 to 10Hz) |
±0.5 (-30℃ to 85℃) |
±0.1 (Typ) for one year after shipment |
DC to 210 | 36.3 @3.3 V | 3.15 to 3.45 | -30 to +85 | Aluminum die casting | Receptacle connector (1.00mm) |
| M-A352AD10 | |
 48 x 24 x 16 |
25 | Built-in | SPI/UART | 3 | Acceleration/Tilt Angle | Acceleration:±15G Tilt Angle:±1.047 rad(±60deg) |
0.2 (0.5 to 6Hz) |
±2 (-30℃ to 85℃) |
3 (Typ) for one year after shipment |
DC to 460 | 13.2 @3.3 V | 3.15 to 3.45 | -30 to +85 | Aluminum die casting | Receptacle connector (1.00mm) |
| M-A552AC10 | |
 65 x 60 x 30 |
128 | Waterproof & Dust proof (IP67) |
CANopen | 3 | Acceleration/Tilt Angle | Acceleration:±15G Tilt Angle:±1.047 rad(±60deg) |
0.5 (0.5 to 6Hz) |
±4 (@25℃) | 3 (Typ) for one year after shipment |
DC to 460 | 35 @12V | 9 to 32 | -30 to +70 | Aluminum die casting | M12, 5pin-male connector |
| M-A552AR10 | |
 65 x 60 x 30 |
128 | Waterproof & Dust proof (IP67) |
RS422 | 3 | Acceleration/Tilt Angle | Acceleration:±15G Tilt Angle:±1.047 rad(±60deg) |
0.5 (0.5 to 6Hz) |
±4 (@25℃) | 3 (Typ) for one year after shipment |
DC to 460 | 40 @12V | 9 to 32 | -30 to +70 | Aluminum die casting | M12, 8pin-male connector |
Contact Us
For product purchases, inquiries, or documentation requests, please contact us via the inquiry form.
