GRAS 40AZ 1/2″ Prepolarized Free-field Microphone, Low Frequency

Introduction

The GRAS 40AZ 1/2″ free-field microphone is a precision condenser microphone for low-frequency (including infra-sound) measurements in open acoustic fields.

As a free-field microphone, 40AZ is designed essentially to measure the sound pressure as it would appear if the microphone were not present, the sound field pointing towards the microphone.

At low frequencies, the disturbing effects of its presence in the sound field are minimal (large wavelengths compared to the size of the microphone).

At higher frequencies (>1 kHz), the effects of diffractions generally cause microphones to measure sound pressure levels increasing with frequency. In a free-field microphone, the effects of diffraction are compensated for to provide a flat frequency response in a free-field for 0º incidence.

The GRAS 26CG 1/4″ high impedance preamplifier is available for use with 40AZ. The mounting thread (11.7 mm – 60 UNS-2) is compatible with microphone preamplifiers for WS2P/F microphones.

Typical applications and use

The low-frequency property combined with its high sensitivity and robust design make 40AZ the obvious choice for infra-sound measurements – a fast growing discipline following the need for monitoring and reducing low-frequency noise from, for example, power and production plants and the increasing number of wind turbines.

Compatibility

The 40AZ requires a standardized 1/2″ or 1/4″ CCP preamplifier and an input module that supports this technology with a BNC, SMB, or Microdot connector.

To benefit from 40AZ’s low frequency capabilities, it is important that the microphone preamplifier, analyzer input module, or sound level meter is designed to match 40AZ.

System verification

For daily verification and check of your measurement setup, we recommend using a calibrator like GRAS 42AG Multifunction Sound Level Calibrator .

For proper sensitivity calibration, we recommend using a pistonphone like GRAS 42AP Intelligent Pistonphone.

Calibration

When leaving the factory, all GRAS microphones have been calibrated in a controlled laboratory environment using traceable calibration equipment. Depending on the use, measurement environment and internal quality control programs we recommend that the microphone is recalibrated at least once a year.

We offer two kinds of calibration as an optional after-sales service: GRAS Traceable Calibration and GRAS Accredited Calibration.

GRAS Traceable Calibration is a traceable calibration performed by trained personnel under controlled conditions according to established procedures and standards. This is identical to the rigorous calibration that all GRAS microphones are subjected to as an integral part of our quality assurance.

GRAS Accredited Calibration is performed by the GRAS Accredited Calibration Laboratory that has been accredited in accordance with ISO 17025 by DANAK, the Danish Accreditation Fund.

If you want a new microphone set delivered with an accredited calibration in stead of the default factory calibration, specify this when ordering.

Learn more at gras/calibration.

Quality and warranty

All GRAS microphones are made of high-quality materials that will ensure life-long stability and robustness. The microphones are all assembled in verified clean-room environments by skilled and dedicated operators with many years of expertise in this field.

The microphone diaphragm, body, and improved protection grid are made of high-grade stainless steel, which makes the microphone resistant to physical damage, as well as corrosion caused by aggressive air or gasses.

This, combined with the reinforced gold-plated microphone terminal which guarantees a highly reliable connection, enables GRAS to offer 5 years warranty against defective materials and workmanship.

Service

If you accidentally damage the diaphragm on a GRAS microphone, we can – in most cases – replace it at a very reasonable cost and with a short turn-around time. This not only protects your investment, but also pleases your quality assurance department because you don’t have to worry about new serial numbers, etc.