Crystal Instruments has published full details of the Spider-30R, a compact data collector, field recorder and predictive maintenance front end in one small, rugged module. THP Systems represents Crystal Instruments in the UK and can now advise on the Spider-30R for field and monitoring applications.
Small, but six channels
The Spider-30R measures 110 × 110 × 50 mm and weighs about 0.3 kg, so it fits on test rigs, vehicles, machine housings and inside tight enclosures. It uses the same six-channel input design as the Spider-20HE, with inputs grouped on two 5-pin connectors. Each channel supplies IEPE power (22.5 V / 4.2 mA), so two triaxial accelerometers connect directly with no external conditioning. On a motor, for example, both drive end and non-drive end can be measured at once. TEDS (IEEE 1451.4) support reads sensor details automatically.
Built for the field
Every connection, including inputs, Ethernet and 24 VDC power, uses a sealed, locking M-type connector on one face of the unit. Crystal Instruments chose these over BNC because bayonet connectors can loosen under constant vibration and shock, causing dropouts and noise. The unit is rated for 50 g non-operating shock on all six sides, with a 1000 g option, and operates from -20 °C to +55 °C. Power draw is under 6 W.
Measurement quality
- 24-bit sigma-delta ADC on every channel
- Sampling from 0.48 Hz to 102.4 kHz in 54 steps, with bandwidth up to 45 kHz
- 140 dB dynamic range and 95 dB anti-alias attenuation
- Channel match of ±0.05 dB and 0.15° at 20 kHz, supporting cross-channel and transfer function analysis
- Built-in digital high-pass, low-pass and band-pass filters
Three roles in one unit
Compact data acquisition: connected to a PC over Ethernet for vibration, modal and structural measurements, including aerospace and automotive field testing where space and weight are tight.
Field recorder: internal storage of 4 GB (up to 32 GB) and a real-time clock with a 10-year backup battery that can switch the unit on to a schedule for unattended time waveform recording.
Predictive maintenance: permanent installation beside motors, pumps, fans, compressors and gearboxes to spot imbalance, misalignment, looseness and bearing wear early, working alongside tools such as remote condition monitoring and order tracking analysis.
A wireless version, the Spider-30RW, adds Wi-Fi and scheduled wake, measure and power-off cycles. For larger channel counts, THP also offers the Spider-80X and Spider-80Xi systems, and suitable accelerometers.
Source: Crystal Instruments
For pricing or a demonstration of the Spider-30R, please contact the THP team.
