Six considerations to select the right cables for vibration data collectors and hand held vibration meters

1. Sensor connector

Must be compatible with accelerometer

Typically MIL-C-5015 or M12 in industrial applications

2. Vibration data collector connector

Must be compatible with handheld vibration analyzer or vibration meter

Varies by manufacturer, BNC is common

3. Coiled or straight cable

Coiled cables are often used for easy management when walking a vibration route

When dust, debris and grease or other liquids are present, a straight cable is easier to keep clean

4. Durability

A ribbed connector design provides superior strain relief, high flexibility, and a smaller bend radius to reduce stress on the cable and prolong the life of the cable assembly, resulting in fewer replacements

5. Environmental shielding

When present, electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference must be shielded from corrupting vibration data

6. Safety

When moving processes are being monitored, a breakaway connector protects the data collector – and most importantly the operator – from being pulled in if a sensor or cable gets caught