The bandwidth of a sensor defines the frequency range over which it can accurately measure and reproduce a signal. Expressed in hertz (Hz), it tells how fast the sensor can respond to dynamic changes.
A low-bandwidth sensor captures slow or static variations, while a high-bandwidth sensor follows fast, transient events such as machine vibrations or shocks. In vibration monitoring, bandwidth directly affects signal fidelity and measurement accuracy.
For example, Recovib Feel and Recovib Tiny sensors offer a bandwidth up to 250 Hz, ideal for general machinery or structural applications.
The Recovib accelerometer series comprises multiple models, each with a different frequency range ; from DC–400 Hz for low-frequency measurements up to DC–24 kHz for high-frequency applications.
Bandwidth is often confused with sampling frequency, but they’re not the same. Bandwidth is a property of the sensor — the highest frequency it can physically detect without distortion. Sampling frequency, on the other hand, is defined by the acquisition system and determines how often the signal is digitally recorded. To capture data faithfully, the sampling frequency must be higher than the bandwidth. At Micromega Dynamics, we recommend setting the sampling frequency at least four times higher than the sensor bandwidth. This ensures accurate phase and amplitude reproduction across the full dynamic range.
Choosing the right bandwidth is about matching the sensor to the real frequency content of your system. Too low, and you’ll miss critical peaks; too high, and you’ll add unnecessary noise and data load.
Learn more about what Is the Vibration Range of a sensor(g)?
