How Do Amp Hour Recording Devices Work?

Purpose

• Accelerographs measure vertical and horizontal motions. The devices help engineers design buildings that are resistant to strong ground movement. An accelerograph begins recording data when the ground shakes stronger than human-inflicted movements. This device is also used to detect significant movement on large structures, such as bridges and buildings, which allows the local officials to take precautionary action the moment potentially hazardous movement is detected.

Software

• Modern accelerographs are linked to computer software, allowing a controller to check the device̵7;s settings, change the commands and review new and stored data. The software easily recognizes various motion levels and compiles visual charts for comparisons. Some areas of the software give you the opportunity to look at seismic disturbances on a 3D map, which allows you to analyze the motion variations at different geographical heights and review extended areas affected.

Data Collecting

• Data is collected a number of ways depending on the accelerograph̵7;s model and age. Older recording devices require you to visit the box̵7;s location, open it and retrieve the information. More modern accelerographs send data to computers. A near-real-time communication between the box and operator is slightly delayed compared to a real-time information stream. The infrequency of earthquakes in most areas makes a near-real-time communication stream an economical choice.

Additional Uses

• Earthquakes have aftershocks, which also cause ground movement, but aftershocks typically result in less ground movement than the main earthquake. Although an aftershock is not as devastating as the initial earthquake, it can still affect populated areas. Therefore, Amp hour recording devices also monitor and record aftershocks. The benefit of using an accelerograph with Amp hour power for aftershocks is that this recording device functions even if the main earthquake causes a power outage.