Sensors are devices or modules that detect and measure physical inputs from the environment and convert them into electric signals. These signals can then be processed, analyzed, or used to govern other systems. Sensors are used in several industries and applications to gather data, monitor conditions, and permit automation. Sensors are of two types-Analog and Digital. Digital sensors are electronic devices that convert physical inputs or environmental conditions into digital signals in the form of binary data (0s and 1s). These sensors offer digital output, which can be easily processed, transmitted, and analyzed by digital systems. Here are a few generally used sensors:
1. Temperature Sensor
Temperature sensors measure and monitor the ambient temperature of an object or surroundings. They can be utilized in a wide range of applications, which include climate control systems, industrial processes, and electronic devices. DHT 11, and DHT 22 are one of a kind. They can be used in agriculture and automotive applications.
2. Pressure Sensor
Pressure sensors detect and measure the pressure of gases or liquids. They are used in applications such as automotive systems, HVAC systems, industrial automation, and medical devices to monitor and control pressure levels.BMP 180 is a digital pressure sensor. They can be used in healthcare and automotive applications.
3. Proximity Sensor
Proximity sensors detect the presence or absence of an object within a range without any contact. They are used in automation systems, robotics, security systems, and touchless interfaces. HC-SR04 is an example of a proximity sensor. They can be used in smart city applications.
4. Motion Sensor
Motion sensors detect movement or motion within a given region. They are used in applications including security systems, automatic lights, gaming consoles, and smart domestic devices to trigger actions based on detected motion.HC-SR501 is an example of a motion sensor. They can be used in entry-controlled applications.
5. Light Sensor
Light sensors known as photodetectors measure the intensity of light within the surroundings. They are commonly utilized in smartphones, cameras, automated lighting systems, and display devices for automated brightness adjustment and ambient light detection. LDR is an example of a light sensor which is used in light-controlled applications.
6. Accelerometer
Accelerometers measure acceleration forces, including both static and dynamic acceleration. They are utilized in devices like smartphones, gaming controllers, drones, and fitness bands to detect orientation, movement, and vibration. MPU6050 is an example of an accelerometer sensor which is used in mobility and stability-based applications. These sensors play a role in tumbling toy cars.
7. Gyroscope
Gyroscopes measure angular velocity or rotation around an axis. They are used in applications such as navigation systems, robotics, VR devices, and stabilization structures to detect and measure rotational movements.MPU6500 is an example of a gyroscope which is used in mobility and stability-based applications. These sensors play a role in tumbling toy cars.
8. Humidity Sensor
A humidity sensor additionally called a hygrometer, measures and monitors the relative humidity in the air. It detects the moisture content in the surrounding. Humidity sensors are used in weather tracking, HVAC structures, agriculture, and factory processes. DHT 11 and DHT 22 are one of a kind.
9. Magnetic Sensor
A magnetic sensor measures and detects the presence and strength of magnetic fields. It can decide the proximity, position, and movement of magnetic objects or materials. They are utilized in various applications including compasses, speedometers, position sensors, security systems, and magnetic field mapping.KY-035 is an example of a magnetic sensor.
10. Gas Sensor
A gas sensor is designed to measure and detect the concentration of gases in the air or a specific environment. Gas sensors are used for tracking air quality, detecting toxic gases, ensuring safety in industries, controlling gas leakage, and environmental tracking.MQ-6 is a gas sensor designed to detect LPG and propane.
11. pH Sensor
A pH sensor measures the alkalinity or acidity of a solution. It determines the hydrogen ion concentration, which determines the pH value. PH sensors are extensively utilized in laboratories, water quality testing, agriculture, food and beverage industries, and chemical processing.PH4502C is a pH sensor.
12. Optical Sensor
An optical sensor uses light to detect and measure several physical properties or changes within the environment. Optical sensors can measure light intensity, colour, distance, motion, and other parameters. They are used in optical communication, proximity sensing, object detection, photovoltaic systems, and imaging devices.GP2Y1010AU0F is an optical sensor.
13. Colour Sensor
A colour sensor detects and measures the colour of an object or surface. It can identify and differentiate various colours based on light reflection or transmission. Colour sensors are utilized in applications inclusive of colour recognition, colour sorting, shade calibration, printing, and fabric industries.GY-31 TCS3200 is a colour sensor.
14. Touch Sensor
A touch sensor detects physical touch or proximity without the need for mechanical buttons. It can feel human touch or the presence of objects. Touch sensors are typically used in touchscreens, touchpads, interactive displays, buttons, and other user interface devices.TTP223 is a touch sensor.
15. CO2 Sensor
A CO2 sensor, also referred to as a carbon dioxide sensor, measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air. It is used for indoor air quality monitoring, ventilation control, and environmental tracking. They find applications in buildings, greenhouses, HVAC systems, and industrial processes.MG811 is a CO2 sensor.
16. Oxygen Sensor
An oxygen sensor, additionally referred to as an O2 sensor, measures the oxygen level in gases or liquids. It is commonly used in automotive exhaust systems to monitor and control the air-fuel combination for ideal combustion. Oxygen sensors find applications in medical devices, environmental monitoring, and industrial processes. AO-03 is an O2 sensor.
17. Position Sensor
A position sensor measures and detects the position or displacement of an object relative to a reference position. It can provide information about linear or angular position changes. Position sensors are used in robotics, automation, automotive, machine tools, and motion control applications.EVW-AE4001B14 is a position sensor.
18. Image Sensor
An image sensor captures and converts optical images into digital signals. It is utilized in digital cameras, smartphones, surveillance systems, and various imaging devices. Image sensors are based on technologies which include CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) or CCD (Charge-Coupled Device). Xcluma Ov7670 is an image sensor.
19. Weight Sensor
A weight sensor, additionally known as a load cell, measures the force or weight applied to it. It can convert the mechanical force into electrical signals proportional to the weight. Weight sensors find applications in weighing scales, industrial weighing systems, process control, and force measurement.hx711 is a weight sensor.
20. Radiation Sensor
A radiation sensor detects and measures ionizing radiation like alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. It is used for radiation monitoring, nuclear industry applications, radiation therapy, and environmental monitoring. Radiation sensors play a vital role in ensuring safety and radiation detection in various fields.
