Evaluation of a low-noise preamplifier for a wideband flextensional hydrophone in underwater-acoustic applications
Abstract
Abstract This study analytically evaluates a low-noise preamplifier designed for wideband, low-frequency flextensional hydrophones. Closed-form expressions for the frequency response and noise transfer were derived and validated through SPICE simulations. Noise analysis showed that Referred To the hydrophone Input noise strongly depends on input capacitance, input resistance, and the op-amp’s voltage and current noise. Lower gain resistance, higher input resistance, and low-noise op-amps were found to improve performance. Applying optimized component values significantly reduced noise pressure across the frequency band, demonstrating that proper circuit design is essential for maximizing the sensitivity of a flextensional hydrophone.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Analog and Mixed-Signal Circuit Design
Underwater Acoustics Research
Ultrasonics and Acoustic Wave Propagation
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Japanese Journal of Applied Physics
- Volume
- 65
- Issue
- 6
- Pages
- 068004–068004
- Publication date
- 24 February 2026
- Language
- EN