An experimental setup is presented, developed for comprehensive evaluation of high performance inertial sensors for translational motion, accelerometers and geophones. It employs a precision, robust air bearing stage driven by integral brushless DC motor. Experimental results illustrate the performance and capabilities of the setup. 1 Introduction Steadily improving performance of inertial sensors (accelerometers, geophones and gyroscopes) significantly broadens the range of their applications. It also necessitates significant enhancement of the evaluation methods and equipment used throughout the sensor development process. This research is concerned with evaluating accelerometers and geophones used for accurate motion tracking and geophysical sensing.