The MPAC208 is a professional-grade acoustic imaging camera designed for fast, accurate detection of ultrasonic sound sources across industrial environments. It helps maintenance teams identify gas leaks, mechanical deterioration, and partial discharge (PD) in high-voltage electrical systems, without needing to interrupt operations.
At its core is a 208 channel MEMS (micro-electromechanical system) microphone array offering sensitivity across 2 kHz to 100 kHz, enabling the MPAC208 to detect even very small leaks and subtle ultrasonic patterns.
The acoustic data is fused with a 13 MP optical camera and displayed on an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen, presenting clear, real-time visual overlays that make sound sources immediately visible.
The MPAC208-IECEx camera provides all the features seen in the standard MPAC208 but is certified for use in Class 2 explosive atmospheres.
Designed for real industrial environments
With a detection range up to 200 m, the MPAC208 is suitable for both close-proximity inspection and stand-off safety at substations, switchgear, or during overhead line work.
The Focus function suppresses background noise, allowing operators to isolate target sound sources even in loud plants or workshops. SoundScan™ directional guidance assists in locating leaks that are outside the visible frame, helping technicians trace issues quickly
Three core operating modes
Gas Leak Mode: Automatically estimates leak rate, cost impact, and distance to the source, helping prioritise repairs and quantify energy loss.
Partial Discharge Mode: Captures PD activity and provides PRPD (Phase Resolved Partial Discharge) analysis, supporting early detection and classification of discharge types.
Mechanical Mode: Identifies bearing wear, valve leakage, cavitation, and vibration-related wear patterns through ultrasonic signatures.
Extend capability with thermal correlation
When fitted with an optional thermal imaging module, the MPAC208 enables side-by-side acoustic and thermal visualisation. This allows users to correlate heat signatures with acoustic anomalies for faster root cause assessment.
Built for field use
The camera is lightweight (1.4 kg), IP54 rated, and powered by interchangeable smart batteries providing up to 10 hours of operation (2× 5-hour packs included).
Whether used in utilities, industrial plants, renewables, or manufacturing, the MPAC208 supports predictive maintenance, energy efficiency, and operational safety—all in one portable instrument.
Camera Verification
The optional MPAC-V accessory is designed to allow field verification of the operational parameters of the MPAC cameras. An automated routine, built into the MPAC cameras, will verify the frequency response as well as the SPL (Sound Pressure Level) measured by the camera. In addition, it checks the visual location calibration of the microphones.
There are no user-serviceable parts with the MPAC range of cameras
The MPAC series of Acoustic Cameras are equipped with an internal microphone diagnostic test. It is recommended that this feature is run on a regular basis to ensure that all microphones are functioning correctly.
Should the test indicate an issue with any of the microphones, turn off the camera and carefully clean the rear array holes, as described in the user guide, using the provided cleaning tools. If the problem persists, please contact your local Megger service centre.
The MPAC128 has an internal battery used to maintain the date and time within the instrument. This battery has a limited lifespan of between 4 to 6 years. Should the camera date and time require resetting on a regular basis, the camera should be returned to a Megger service centre to have the battery replaced.
If, when verifying the camera accuracy using the MPAC-V, it is determined that re-calibration is required, the camera should be returned to a Megger service centre.
What types of gas leaks can the MPAC208 detect?
The MPAC208 detects pressurised and vacuum gas leaks by identifying ultrasonic sound from escaping gas. It can analyse different gas types and provide estimated leak rates and economic loss values.
Can the MPAC208 detect partial discharge in high-voltage environments?
Yes. In PD mode, it localises discharge sources and provides real-timePRPDanalysis to help classify discharge type and severity.
What industries is the MPAC208 best suited for?
Electric utilities, industrial process plants, manufacturing, renewables, and facilities using compressed air or gas distribution systems.
Do I need the thermal module?
Not for acoustic inspections. The thermal module is optional and is only needed if you want to correlate heat anomalies with acoustic events.
Can a gas leak in underground pipes be detected?
No. The ultrasounds generated by the leak are absorbed by the ground and do not propagate to the device sensors. Therefore, it can’t be detected.
Can leaks of liquids be detected?
No. Liquid leaks usually don't make noticeable sound waves. And if the leak is visible, there's no need for detection, as it can be seen.
Can SF6 leaks be detected?
No. SF6 leaks are generally at very low pressure and as such do not generate a sound for the camera to detect.
Will extended use adversely affect the camera accuracy? How often should the camera be returned for service and calibration? Is calibration only available via the manufacturer?
Prolonged use of the device will not affect its accuracy. However, it is recommend calibration is carried out every two years. This may be extended if regular verification of accuracy is carried out using the MPAC-V verifier. Calibration is currently only through the manufacturer.
Is there a recommended frequency range for different field test situations such as gas leakage and partial discharge, noisy and non-noisy environments?
In general use, choose 20kHz~40kHz to start. When in quieter environments, and the test point is farther away from the equipment, choosing 15kHz~35kHz is the preferred starting point. When in noisy environments, choosing 28kHz~48kHz is advised.
