PicoQuake Vibration Sensor is a sensor that is designed to measure a wide range of frequencies, making it suitable for monitoring everything from swaying buildings to vibrating machinery. The unique thing about this sensor is that it’s open-sourced and can operate via a USB as a standalone device.
PicoQuake, a new vibration sensor from Slovenian maker PLab, is built on a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller and a TDK InvenSense ICM-42688-P low-noise inertial measurement unit. This combination allows it to accurately measure even very small vibrations, making it suitable for applications like optimizing electric motor vibrations, tracking trackpad clicks, and predictive maintenance.
Priced at $59, PicoQuake is a more affordable option compared to similar devices. It’s compatible with Linux, Mac, and Windows, and features open-source firmware available on GitHub. Its Python driver includes both a command-line interface and an API, enabling easy integration and customization for various projects.