ciepe

Ciepe, usually written CIEPE, is a term used in sensor technology to describe a power interface for IEPE sensors such as accelerometers and microphones. It refers to a current-regulated bias supply that powers the sensor and allows the signal to be transmitted over the same line.

How it works: The sensor contains built-in electronics and requires a bias current. The CIEPE supply provides a constant current, typically a few milliamperes (commonly 2–20 mA, with 4–8 mA or 8–10 mA common), at voltages up to about 18–30 V depending on the system. The sensor draws its bias current, and the measured signal is an AC voltage superimposed on the DC bias on the same coaxial line. The receiving instrument typically AC-couples or otherwise separates the signal from the bias.

Applications and advantages: CIEPE-powered IEPE sensors are widely used in vibration testing, structural health monitoring, automotive and industrial sensing, and audio measurement. The approach simplifies cabling, allows built-in electronics in the sensor, and supports wide dynamic ranges. Limitations include the need for compatible current-source supplies and proper impedance matching in the signal path.

Relationship to IEPE: IEPE is the broader family of piezoelectric sensors with integrated electronics, of which CIEPE denotes the current-regulated powering approach. In practice, CIEPE emphasizes the current-source nature of the supply rather than a fixed-voltage mode.

See also: IEPE, accelerometer, microphone.