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Hammer Switches

Product information, applications, features, benefits, and brochure.

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Hammer Switches

Hammer Switches

Overview

The Hammer Switch is a rugged trigger device designed for active-source seismic surveys using mechanical impact sources. Mounted directly to a sledgehammer or to the strike plate of larger impact sources, the Hammer Switch generates a switch closure when the source impacts the plate, providing a reliable trigger signal to the seismograph. Compatible with virtually any seismograph that accepts a switch closure trigger input, the Hammer Switch provides a simple, dependable, and field-proven solution for seismic refraction, MASW, engineering, geotechnical, environmental, and research applications.

Features

Mechanical Source Compatibility
  • Works with sledgehammers of all sizes and weights
  • Compatible with gravity-powered falling weight sources
  • Supports AWD (Accelerated Weight Drop) systems
  • Can be mounted to hammers or source baseplates
Trigger Performance
  • Reliable switch closure upon impact
  • Provides accurate trigger signals for seismic recording systems
  • Compatible with all seismographs requiring switch closure triggering
Field-Rugged Design
  • Waterproof sealed construction
  • Designed for harsh outdoor environments
  • Durable construction for repeated impact use
Connectivity
  • 2-Pin SAE connector
  • Available with 6-inch lead
  • Available with 3-meter lead
  • Optional 5-meter extension cable
  • Optional 125-meter reel-mounted extension cable
Accessories
  • Optional aluminum mounting plate
  • Protects the switch from field damage
  • Provides secure installation on hammers and source plates

Benefits

Reliable Shot Triggering
  • Generates a dependable trigger signal directly from the impact event, helping ensure accurate seismic record timing.
Works With Existing Equipment
  • Compatible with virtually any seismograph that accepts a switch closure trigger input, eliminating the need for specialized interfaces.
Built For Field Conditions
  • Waterproof construction and rugged design provide dependable performance in demanding outdoor environments.
Simple Installation
  • Easily mounts to sledgehammers, falling-weight systems, and AWD sources with minimal setup time.
Flexible Deployment
  • Multiple lead lengths and optional extension cables allow operation across a wide range of survey layouts and source configurations.
Ideal For Near-Surface Seismic
  • Well suited for MASW, refraction, engineering, geotechnical, environmental, and educational seismic applications.

Related Applications

Learn more about applications commonly used with this product.

MASW Surveys
  • Reliable triggering for surface wave investigations.
Seismic Refraction
  • Accurate shot timing for shallow subsurface velocity studies.
Engineering & Geotechnical Surveys
  • Ideal for foundation, pavement, and site characterization projects.
Environmental Investigations
  • Supports shallow seismic imaging and subsurface mapping.
Educational & Research Programs
  • Simple operation and broad compatibility for universities and research groups.

Brochure

Hammer Switches Brochure
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