Laser Doppler Vibrometers.
- Non-contact measurement:
No added mass or impact on the object – ideal for sensitive microstructures and high-speed components. - High resolution and wide frequency range:
Displacement resolution down to 50 fm with a frequency bandwidth from DC to 50 MHz. - Wide range of applications:
Suitable for test objects ranging from < 1 mm² to > 10 m² – from microstructures to large industrial components. - Direct visualization and system integration:
Data analysis with SMART Lab Software and connectivity via Ethernet (1-10 Gbit/s), USB and optical interfaces.
For non-contact vibration measurements (velocity, displacement, acceleration) in industry, research and development.
When Conventional Contact Sensors Reach Their Limits
Conventional vibration sensors such as accelerometers must be attached directly to the test object using adhesives, screws, or magnets. This mechanical coupling alters the vibration characteristics of the test object, particularly in lightweight, sensitive, or small structures.
Installation and Cabling Affect Measurement Quality
Installation is also time-consuming: cabling, adhesive layers, and positioning errors can further distort the measurement results.
Typical drawbacks of conventional sensors:
- Mass loading: Added mass alters natural frequencies.
- Complex installation: Bonding, alignment, curing, and cable routing.
- Scaling challenges: More measurement points require significantly more installation effort.
- Limited range of applications: Measurements on hot, moving, or hard-to-reach objects are virtually impossible.
- Limited resolution: Often limited to the micrometer range and a narrower frequency bandwidth.
Contact sensors alter vibration behavior, particularly in lightweight or sensitive components.
Laser Vibrometers: Precise Measurements Without Affecting the Test Object
Laser Doppler vibrometers (LDVs) measure non-contact – meaning: no added mass, no wiring, no impact on vibration behavior.
The laser measures the surface vibration velocity using the Doppler effect and delivers precise, reproducible results, even for sensitive, hot, or moving components.
Benefits of non-contact measurement:
- No physical contact – no impact on the test object.
- High resolution: Detection of displacements as small as 50 femtometers (≈ 1/2,000 of an atomic diameter).
- High spatial resolution: Precisely captures local vibrations, even on small structures.
- Wide frequency range: DC … 50 MHz (SMART series) or up to 25 MHz (CLASSIC series).
- Fast, reproducible results with minimal setup effort.
- Integrated data acquisition and visualization with SMART Lab.
Laser Doppler vibrometry provides precise measurement data—without contact or any impact on the measurement object.
Comparison of contact and non-contact vibration measurement
 |  | |
|---|---|---|
| Impact on the test object | Added mass alters natural frequencies and damping | No impact on the test object |
| Setup & handling | Bonding, bolting, or wiring required | Fast, non-contact setup with no need to mount sensors. Accelerometers (reference sensors) can also be connected |
| Measurement ranges | Typically up to several kHz; special types up to several tens of kHz | DC … 50 MHz (SMART series), up to 25 MHz (CLASSIC series) |
| Displacement resolution | No direct displacement measurement; double integration makes the result dependent on frequency, drift, and noise. | Up to 50 fm – approximately 1/2,000 of an atomic diameter |
| Signal processing | External DAQ or analysis hardware required | Integrated data acquisition, signal processing, and visualization (SMART Lab). |
The Optomet SMART Series
Vibration measurement at a new level
The SMART Series from Optomet combines state-of-the-art laser Doppler vibrometry with comprehensive NVH measurement technology in one compact system.
The product family includes SMART Single+, SMART Scan+, SMART 3D-Scan, SMART Multi-Fiber, SMART 3D-Fiber, SMART Full-Body, and the SMART DAQ system—and integrates all key components for vibration measurement, data analysis, and visualization into a single platform.
Modular, precise, intuitive
The modular concept enables customized configurations – from single-point measurements to complex 3D analyses. Intelligent features simplify the measurement process, minimize potential sources of error, and ensure maximum accuracy.
Learn more about the SMART series and its wide range of applications here.
The Optomet CLASSIC series
Reliable vibration measurement with proven technology
Optomet laser vibrometers from the CLASSIC series delivers precise, non-contact vibration measurement using proven technology. It combines a robust design, high dynamic measurement performance, and a broad frequency range – ideal for research, development, and industrial applications.
The CLASSIC series also uses state-of-the-art SWIR laser technology – for reliable measurements even on dark, rough, or moving surfaces. With a focus on single-point and fiber-optic systems the CLASSIC series delivers maximum precision without the need for moving scanning units. Intuitive operation and digital signal processing ensure that even complex measurement tasks can be performed efficiently.
Available in a range of models – from compact single-point systems to fiber-optic systems – the CLASSIC series offers the right solution for every measurement environment.
The right vibrometer for every measurement requirement
Different types of vibrometers are used depending on the measurement task – from single-point to three-dimensional vibration measurements.
Laser Sources for Different Applications
In addition to the measurement system’s geometry, the choice of laser source also plays a crucial role. Depending on the application, Optomet uses HeNe lasers in the visible spectrum or SWIR lasers in the infrared spectrum.
Vibration measurement in research, development and industry – Optomet offers the right solution for your requirements.
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