Calculator inputs
Formula used
Acceleration converts through a common metres-per-second-squared base. One standard g equals 9.80665 metres per second squared. Custom gravity values support specialised testing and local assumptions.
a = G × g₀F = m × aΔv = aₚ × t × pulse factors = v₀t + aₚt² × displacement factor
How to use this calculator
- Select quick, custom, or reverse conversion mode.
- Enter the shock amplitude and its current unit.
- Select the preferred primary output unit.
- Keep standard gravity or enter a custom value.
- Add duration, pulse shape, mass, and initial velocity when needed.
- Choose decimal places or significant figures.
- Select Calculate to display all available results.
The letter g represents gravitational acceleration here, not grams. Pulse displacement remains an idealised estimate from the selected waveform. Verify critical designs with measured acceleration-time test data.
Worked 125 g example
A 125 g shock uses standard gravity of 9.80665 m/s². Multiplication gives 1,225.83125 m/s² as the peak acceleration. Optional pulse duration then determines velocity and displacement estimates.
| Input | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 125 g | 125 × 9.80665 | 1,225.83125 m/s² |
| 125 g | 1,225.83125 ÷ 0.3048 | 4,021.75607 ft/s² |
| 125 g | 1,225.83125 ÷ 0.0254 | 48,261.07283 in/s² |
Shock pulse comparison
| Pulse shape | Average factor | RMS factor | Velocity factor | Displacement factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rectangular | 1.000000 | 1.000000 | 1.000000 | 0.500000 |
| Half-sine | 0.636620 | 0.707107 | 0.636620 | 0.318310 |
| Triangular | 0.500000 | 0.577350 | 0.500000 | 0.250000 |
| Sawtooth, rising | 0.500000 | 0.577350 | 0.500000 | 0.166667 |
| Haversine | 0.500000 | 0.612372 | 0.500000 | 0.250000 |
Factors assume an ideal positive pulse beginning at time zero. Real shock signals may contain rebounds, clipping, noise, or ringing. Use recorded waveforms for final qualification decisions.
Unit definitions
| Unit | Meaning | Equivalent in m/s² |
|---|---|---|
| g-force | Multiple of selected gravitational acceleration | 9.80665 by default |
| Gal | Centimetre per second squared | 0.01 |
| ft/s² | Foot per second squared | 0.3048 |
| in/s² | Inch per second squared | 0.0254 |
| mph/s | Mile per hour gained each second | 0.44704 |
Frequently asked questions
What is 125 g in m/s²?
Using standard gravity, 125 g equals 1,225.83125 m/s². The calculation multiplies 125 by 9.80665. Custom gravity changes the displayed conversion.
Does g mean grams?
No, g means gravitational acceleration in this calculator. Grams are available only as a mass unit. The labels keep both meanings clearly separated.
Why does pulse shape matter?
Pulse shape controls average acceleration and velocity change. Equal peaks can transfer different total impulses. Select the waveform closest to measured test data.
What is RMS acceleration?
RMS acceleration represents an effective waveform magnitude. It depends on the pulse shape factor. It is not always equal to peak acceleration.
How is velocity change calculated?
Velocity change equals the acceleration-time area. The calculator applies a factor for each pulse. Results assume the selected ideal waveform.
How is displacement estimated?
Displacement combines initial motion and integrated pulse acceleration. It assumes a defined ideal pulse shape. Rebound and structural motion are not modelled.
How is shock force calculated?
Peak force uses force equals mass times acceleration. Average force uses the pulse average factor. Real mounting loads may differ because structures deform.
Can this calculator convert acceleration back to g?
Yes, select acceleration-to-g mode or choose g as output. Enter any supported acceleration unit. The calculator divides by the selected gravity value.
Is this suitable for safety certification?
This tool supports preliminary calculations and reporting. Certification needs calibrated equipment and approved test procedures. A qualified engineer should verify safety-critical conclusions.