This invention relates to a speed monitor apparatus for monitoring speed
and acceleration of rotating turbine equipment (turbomachinery) and for
operating an overspeed trip to shut down the equipment in the event that
the speed or acceleration exceed predetermined thresholds. The invention
provides a speed monitor module having an input conditioner comprising: a
multiplexer; an amplifier; and a comparator; in which the multiplexer
selects an input signal from the sensor, or an input signal via a
feedback loop from the comparator in dependence upon a test input, such
that the input circuit may be tested by confirming that the amplifier
oscillates when the feedback loop is enabled by the test signal.