Pressure Scanner Selection Guide

In critical fields like fluid dynamics testing, aerospace, and wind tunnel experiments, pressure scanner valves are 

core equipment for synchronous multi-channel pressure acquisition. Their selection accuracy directly determines 

data quality and project reliability. This article delves into key parameters and selection logic to aid engineers in 

making precise decisions.

Gensors DAS-P16 Pressure scanner

I. Defining Measurement Requirements: The Foundation

Channel Count Planning: The core advantage lies in synchronous multi-channel acquisition. Determine the total 

number based on experiment scale, including 10%-15% spare channels for future expansion. For instance, wind 

tunnel tests often require 32-64 channels, while engine intake distortion testing may need 128+ channels.

Range and Accuracy Matching:

Range Selection: Set the upper limit at 1.5 times the maximum expected operating pressure (Pmax) to prevent 

damage. Common ranges include ±1 psi, ±15 psi, ±100 psi.

Accuracy: Focus on total error band (combining non-linearity, hysteresis, repeatability), not just sensor 

specification. High-end models achieve ±0.05% FS; industrial-grade typically ±0.1% FS.

Media Compatibility: Essential to verify the compatibility of wetted materials (e.g., 316L stainless steel, Hastelloy) 

with the measurement media (corrosive gases, hot combustion gases, etc.) to prevent sensor failure.

II. Core Performance Parameters

Sampling Rate & Synchronization:

High-Speed Acquisition: Dynamic pressure measurements require sampling rates ≥1 kHz per channel.

Synchronization Accuracy: Inter-channel timing skew should be <1 μs to ensure phase coherence.

Temperature Stability:

Temperature Drift Coefficient: Prefer models below ±0.005% FS/°C.

Integrated Temperature Compensation: High-end devices feature built-in sensors for real-time compensation.

III. System Integration Considerations

Communication Interface:

Ethernet/IP: Modern, mainstream choice for remote control.

IEEE-488 (GPIB): For legacy system compatibility.

RS-422: For long-distance transmission.

Software Capabilities: Evaluate real-time visualization, custom trigger modes, and data export compatibility 

(e.g., MATLAB, Python).

Calibration Traceability: Select devices with NIST-traceable calibration and confirm the recommended cycle 

(typically 12 months).

IV. Strategies for Special Conditions

Extreme Temperatures:

High Temp: Select models with heat dissipation fins (operating up to 125°C).

Low Temp: Optional heaters for frost prevention (e.g., -40°C environments).

Vibration Resistance: For applications like jet engine testing, choose designs with mechanical damping and 

conformally coated PCBs.

Electromagnetic Compatibility: Should meet standards like DO-160G for reliable operation in strong EMI 

environments.

V. Brand and Service Factors

Technical Support: Prioritize vendors offering application engineer support, rapid repair/exchange services, 

and customization capabilities.

Long-Term Reliability: Reference Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) data from similar users; 

recommend >100,000 hours.

VI. Typical Selection Workflow

Requirement Analysis: Define measurement objectives, environmental conditions, budget.

Specification Comparison: Compare key parameters across 3-5 brands.

Solution Validation: Conduct small-scale trials to verify performance.

System Integration: Ensure compatibility with existing data acquisition systems.

Service Planning: Establish scheduled calibration and maintenance protocols.

Conclusion

Selecting pressure scanner valves requires a deep integration of technical decision-making and scientific 

measurement. Engineers must look beyond individual parameters, adopting a system-level perspective that 

considers measurement accuracy, environmental adaptability, long-term reliability, and total lifecycle cost. 

Only by thoroughly understanding both the test principles and equipment capabilities can one select a pressure 

scanning system that truly meets application needs, providing solid data support for high-end equipment 

development.