A sensor incorporating a Transducer Electronic Data Sheet (TEDS) is a mixed-mode (analog/digital) sensor with a built-in read/write memory that contains information about the sensor and its use. A TEDS sensor has an internal memory that includes information about the manufacturer, specifications, and calibration, defined by IEEE standard 1451.4, effectively giving it the ability of “plug-and-play” self-identification within a measurement system. Using the same two-wire design of traditional piezoelectric with internal charge amplifier transducers, the TEDS sensor can flip between analog and digital modes, functioning with either a typical analog output, or with a digital bit stream output. Although a TEDS sensor can be connected to any ICP® sensor signal conditioner, only a TEDS capable ICP® signal conditioner and data acquisition equipment support the digital communication mode.

Most PCB® accelerometers are available to order with TEDS functionality by specifying the unit’s model number with a ”T” prefix. Model 400B76 TEDS sensor interface kit provides users with full access to support both reading and writing information to the TEDS sensor. Its Windows® GUI supports both IEEE and LMS templates, communicating with a TEDS sensor over a USB port. Model 400B76-T includes an adaptor that allows reading and writing to triaxial accelerometers with one mouse click.