What is Sensor? Common types of sensors on the market today
Sensors are a familiar device in life and play an extremely important role in the industrial field. With outstanding accuracy thanks to electronic microchips, sensors are increasingly being used as an alternative to traditional mechanical devices. So what is sensor and what types of sensors are popular in the industry today? Let’s find out more with RX Tradex below.
1. What is a sensor?
A sensor is an electronic device designed to pick up states and fluctuations from the environment, including physical, chemical, or biological factors. These signals are converted into electrical signals and displayed on a screen that allows humans to easily read the data from the obtained state.
With its high sensitivity, the sensor often operates continuously, even in harsh or polluted environments. Therefore, they need a protective shell to make it easy to operate. In addition to the name “sensor”, they also have other names such as “probe” or “probe”.
2. Principle of operation of the sensor
In order for the sensors to function properly, they need to be energized. Typically, this power supply is provided by a measuring device that is directly connected to the sensor. In some cases, the sensor can draw energy from sources such as sunlight or wind power.
The sensor module is usually located near the object to be tested. The internal sensing elements in the module will generate a small and alternating magnetic field. This magnetic field is capable of penetrating the surface of the object without causing any impact. The magnetic field then returns and is picked up by the sensor element. This signal is relayed to the next processing unit in the sensor.
3. Common sensor types
While there are thousands of different types of sensors on the market, in reality, only a handful of industrial sensors are widely used. Therefore, RX Tradex will synthesize the types of sensors that are popular today to provide you with detailed and specific information.
3.1 Image Sensor
An image sensor, also known as a visual sensor, is an electronic device that is capable of detecting a specific object or color within a certain range. These signals are converted into images to the control system for easy observation by customers.
3.2 Temperature Sensor
Temperature sensors are typically designed in the form of temperature probes. allowing the reception of thermal parameters and transmission of signals to the thermal measuring device. Temperature sensors are commonly used to measure the thermal properties of liquids, solids, and gases among many processing industries and the environment today.
3.3 Accelerometer
An accelerometer is a sensor that receives the acceleration or vibration signal of objects. These signals convert into electrical signals and are displayed on the screen. Accelerometers are commonly used in vibration meters and vibration data collectors.
3.4 Radiation Sensor
This sensor is used to detect the presence and density of radiation particles such as alpha, beta or gamma. The encoded signals will be transmitted to the radiometer’s control screen after being decoded. These sensors are commonly used in fields such as medical, military, and defense,…
3.5 Proximity Sensor
Proximity sensors are a common type of sensor that helps detect the presence of objects within a certain range without direct contact. As objects get closer, sensors are generated and transmit signals to the controller. The most used type of proximity sensor is a capacitive proximity sensor. The capacitance changes as the distance between the capacitors decreases, which helps to more accurately determine the movement and position of the object.
3.6 Pressure Sensor
A pressure sensor is essentially an electromechanical device used to detect forces over a certain area of a gas or liquid. The obtained signal will be transmitted to the input of the control and display device called the pressure gauge.
Pressure sensors or probes typically use diaphragms and strain gauges to measure impact forces per unit area.
Key specifications include sensor functionality, minimum and maximum working pressures, accuracy, and features for individual applications. Pressure sensors are used wherever information about the pressure of a gas or liquid is needed for control or measurement.
3.7 Position Sensor
A position sensor or position probe is an electronic device that is often used to determine the location of valves, doors, and throttle valves,…
A position sensor, or position probe, is an electronic device used to recognize the location of objects such as valves, doors, throttle valves, etc. This type of sensor is widely used in many control systems that need location information. A common form of position adapter is a pot wire or potentiometer wire.
Important specifications include sensor type, function, measurement range, and special features specific to each sensor type.
3.8 Photoelectric Sensor
Photoelectric sensors are primarily used to detect objects or changes in surfaces through optical characterization. In terms of structure, photoelectric sensors usually consist of a transmitter (for emitting light) and a receiver (for receiving light)
3.9 Smoke Sensor
This is a specialized device designed to detect smoke quickly. Smoke sensors are often installed in fire protection systems in shopping malls, offices, and buildings,… When smoke is detected in space, the sensor sends a signal to the controller to trigger the alarm to everyone.
4. Notes when choosing to buy a sensor
Customers need to pay attention to the following points to choose the right sensor:
Sensor measurement range: Each product has a different measurement range, so choose the right product for your needs.
Sensor output signal: The standard signal is usually at 4 – 20mA, which helps to transmit the signal further while ensuring stability.
Sensor Connection Thread: Select the correct type of connection thread to ensure compatibility with the pressure measurement location. Some common types of connection threads include G1/4″, G1/2″, 1/2″ NPTM, and 1/4″ NPTM.
Ambient temperature: The heat resistance amplitude of each type of sensor will be different, so choose a sensor with heat resistance that is suitable for the environment to ensure operational efficiency.
5. Application of sensors in life
Sensors are widely used in many different fields, from electronics, healthcare, industry to transportation. Here are some of the outstanding applications of the sensor:
Electronics: Sensors are integrated in electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and digital cameras,…
Medical: In healthcare, sensors are used in devices such as blood pressure monitors, blood glucose meters, ECG machines,…
Industrial: Sensors play an important role in industrial automation systems, including types such as pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and level sensors.
Transportation: Sensors are used in transportation systems, such as optical sensors, distance sensors, and speed sensors.
Energy: Sensors are used in production systems such as wind and solar power.
Environment: Sensors are used in environmental monitoring systems to measure air quality, water quality
Robots and artificial intelligence: Sensors help robotic and artificial intelligence systems collect data, allowing computers to understand and interact with their surroundings.
6. Conclusion
The above are the common types of sensors on the market today. To ensure environmental compatibility, choosing the right sensor is very important. If there is a problem with the sensor in its devices, timely and proper replacement is essential to ensure the stability and safety of the entire system. In addition, if you want to stay up-to-date with advanced technology and the latest market trends, participate in NEPCON 2024 – The leading exhibition in Vietnam on SMT, Inspection Technology, Equipment and Supporting Industry for Electronics Manufacturing organized by RX Tradex Vietnam. Register here.
