SparkFun Piezo Vibration Sensor - Large - Flexible PVDF Film

The sensor generates a high-impedance AC voltage signal that can peak up to +/-90V. To interface with a microcontroller ADC (e.g., on an Arduino), you must condition this signal using a voltage divider with a large-value resistor (e.g., 1 MΩ) in series with the sensor output to safely scale the voltage down to the 0-5V or 0-3.3V range. Always check the conditioned signal with a multimeter before connecting to your MCU.

The sensor is characterized with a resonant frequency of 90 Hz (+3 dB), making it most sensitive to vibrations and mechanical events within the low-frequency spectrum, typically below 100 Hz. It can detect higher-frequency impacts or shocks, but the output amplitude will be lower outside its resonant peak. This makes it suitable for monitoring machinery vibrations, structural flex, or slow mechanical oscillations.

While robust, this sensor is primarily designed for prototyping, education, and light-duty monitoring. For continuous industrial vibration monitoring with high reliability, consider a dedicated industrial accelerometer with built-in signal conditioning, a defined full-scale range, and appropriate ingress protection (IP rating). This SparkFun sensor is excellent for proof-of-concept, lab testing, and projects where its high voltage output and flexibility are advantageous.