Summary
An aerospace research laboratory needed eight absolute pressure sensors for wind tunnel model instrumentation.
The first specification was the KULITE XCQ-062. Quoted lead time and unit price did not fit the campaign.
The lab selected the DABEY UPT200, absolute, 0–25 PSI, and took delivery of all eight within eight weeks.
What the Wind Tunnel Sensor Had to Do
The lab needed eight absolute pressure sensors for wind tunnel model instrumentation.
The sensors had to fit existing mounting hardware. They also had to respond fast enough to capture short test windows, where a run cannot easily be repeated.
An absolute reference was mandatory. Gauge sensors reference local atmosphere, which is not correct for tunnel pressure measurement.
Why the XCQ-062 Was Not Selected
The first specification was the KULITE XCQ-062, a well-known ultraminiature transducer in this class. On published specifications, it meets the requirement for this type of measurement.
The project did not proceed with it for commercial reasons. Quoted delivery was longer than the campaign could accept. Unit price moved the eight-channel order past the fixed allocation.
The lab then looked for a second option with comparable measurement capability, a shorter delivery timeline, and a lower unit cost.
What Was Specified
The lab selected the DABEY UPT200 ultraminiature pressure transducer, absolute, 0–25 PSI, as an alternative for this XCQ-062 application.
| Configuration | DABEY UPT200 |
|---|---|
| Range | 0–25 PSI absolute (one of nine standard ranges, 5–1000 PSI) |
| Output | 100 mV typical, 4-arm Wheatstone bridge |
| Excitation | 10 VDC rated, 12 VDC maximum |
| Accuracy | ± 0.1% FS typical, ± 0.2% FS maximum |
| Natural frequency | 240 kHz typical |
| Overload / burst | > 2 × FS (> 50 PSI) / > 3 × FS (> 75 PSI) |
| Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C; compensated 20 °C to 85 °C |
| Body | 0.6 g typical |
Two points decided the selection. The 25 PSI range is a catalog range, not a custom build. And the 240 kHz natural frequency supports short test windows.
See the full parameter comparison against the KULITE XCQ-062 →
Delivery
The order was placed in early 2026. All eight sensors shipped within eight weeks.
The standard body and ribbon cable fit the lab’s existing mounting hardware. No redesign was needed. The change was commercial, not mechanical.
Results
| Metric | Requirement | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor count | 8 channels | 8 × UPT200 delivered |
| Reference type | Absolute | Absolute |
| Pressure range | 0–25 PSI | 0–25 PSI (0.17 MPa) |
| Delivery | Inside campaign window | 8 weeks |
| Acquisition cost | Inside fixed allocation | About 30% below the first quote |
| Mechanical changes | None preferred | None required |
Figures reported by the customer and confirmed in the purchase record.
Three Takeaways
Schedule and price often decide the order. When two sensors meet the same requirement, the one that arrives on time and fits the budget wins.
Absolute reference is not optional for tunnel pressure measurement. Accuracy cannot compensate for the wrong reference type.
Catalog ranges keep lead times short. 25 PSI is a standard range in the UPT200 series.
CTA
Talk to an applications engineer.
Send your pressure range, reference type, output, temperature window, and mounting constraints. We will confirm the closest UPT200 configuration, then return the datasheet, drawing, and delivery estimate.
Talk to an applications engineer → · View the UPT200 product page →
FAQ
Why did the lab need an absolute sensor?
Tunnel pressure measurement requires a vacuum reference. Gauge sensors reference local atmosphere and are not correct for this application.
What is the UPT200 natural frequency at 25 PSI?
240 kHz typical, unscreened, per the datasheet.
Can the UPT200 be used as an alternative for KULITE XCQ-062 applications?
The UPT200 is offered as an alternative for XCQ-062 applications. Check thread, diameter, sealing surface, and insertion depth for fit. Function depends on range, reference type, output, excitation, impedance, temperature compensation, and weight. Validate side by side in your own fixture. [See the specification guide →](internal link)
What ranges does the UPT200 series cover?
Nine standard ranges from 0.035 to 7 MPa (5 to 1000 PSI), with absolute, gauge, differential, and sealed gauge options depending on range.
Disclaimer
KULITE is a registered trademark of Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc. All references to KULITE products or part numbers, including XCQ-062, are made for competitive comparison and compatibility identification purposes only. Dabey Technology Co., LTD and its products, including the UPT200, are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Kulite Semiconductor Products, Inc. All XCQ-062 specifications cited are taken from published KULITE datasheets.
