Watch this video of my presentation at the International Maintenance Conference (IMC) in 2024 weighing the pros and cons of wireless sensors vs manually collected data. View it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AGLTHVzzqUU?feature=shared

This is a must-watch for anyone trying to build a modern, effective vibration monitoring program. Alan Friedman at the International Maintenance Conference (IMC) In this compelling IMC session, Allen Friedman, a 33-year veteran of the vibration analysis field, dives into the timely debate between traditional walk-around vibration technicians and the new wave of wireless sensors. He unpacks the pros and cons of each, highlighting the key challenges of both.

For wireless systems, Alan discusses the promise of more frequent data and easier installation, but also warns about the pitfalls of varying sensor quality, subscription costs, and “dumb” sensors that can’t account for changing machine conditions.

For the human technician, he highlights their unique value as a multi-sensory asset—using eyes, ears, and touch to find problems that a single sensor might miss. The presentation culminates in the surprising and powerful conclusion. Learn when to apply wireless sensors to maximize their benefits (on critical or hard-to-access machines) and when to rely on human expertise for troubleshooting and safety. This is a must-watch for anyone trying to build a modern, effective vibration monitoring program.