The SEP Seismometer System was developed in collaboration with the British Geological Survey, and during its initial trials in schools proved to be very successful in recording earthquakes – including the Kent earthquake in May 2007. The system comes complete with an interface that can be plugged into a computer, recording and analysis software, and full instructions.

The SEP Seismometer System uses the same basic principle underlying all seismometers, which is that of inertia –seismic waves from an earthquake make the ground move relative to the recording device. In the case of the SEP seismometer, there is a large mass on the end of a boom: this stays where it is as the ground moves beneath the seismometer, and this relative movement is recorded.

The SEP seismometer is based on what is often called a ‘garden gate’ design, since the boom is able to swing from side to side. Attached to the boom is a set of ‘sensing magnets’ and a ‘sensing coil’ is mounted on the base of the seismometer; when the boom moves, the magnets move relative to the coil, and an electrical signal is generated in the coil.

Please note: Due to popularity, delivery on this item is currently approximately six weeks.