Characteristics of Sensors | Teaching Notes | Sensors and Transducers | University of Calicut

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the essential characteristics of sensors, as outlined in the video by Jibish Mathew from the University of Calicut. Understanding sensor characteristics is crucial for anyone involved in the fields of electronics, automation, or engineering. This guide will provide a clear and structured overview that will help you grasp the fundamental concepts and applications of sensors.

Step 1: Understanding Sensor Sensitivity

• Definition: Sensitivity refers to the ability of a sensor to respond to changes in the measured quantity.
• Practical Advice:
  • Choose sensors with high sensitivity for applications requiring precise measurements.
  • Be aware that higher sensitivity may also lead to increased noise, which can affect accuracy.

Step 2: Exploring Sensor Range

• Definition: The range of a sensor is the minimum and maximum values it can measure accurately.
• Practical Advice:
  • Ensure the chosen sensor’s range matches the expected values in your application.
  • Avoid using a sensor outside its specified range as it can lead to inaccurate readings or damage.

Step 3: Considering Sensor Resolution

• Definition: Resolution indicates the smallest change in the measured quantity that a sensor can detect.
• Practical Advice:
  • Higher resolution is crucial for applications where small changes are significant.
  • Assess the trade-off between cost and resolution to find the most suitable sensor for your needs.

Step 4: Evaluating Response Time

• Definition: Response time is the time taken by a sensor to react to a change in the measured quantity.
• Practical Advice:
  • For dynamic systems, select sensors with fast response times to ensure timely data updates.
  • Test sensors under real operating conditions to evaluate their performance.

Step 5: Understanding Linearity

• Definition: Linearity refers to the degree to which the output of a sensor is directly proportional to the input.
• Practical Advice:
  • Choose linear sensors for applications requiring predictable and straightforward relationships.
  • Check the sensor's linearity specifications to avoid non-linear response issues.

Step 6: Assessing Hysteresis

• Definition: Hysteresis is the difference in a sensor's output when the input is increasing versus when it is decreasing.
• Practical Advice:
  • Minimize hysteresis in applications that require precise control, such as in feedback systems.
  • Consider using sensors designed to reduce hysteresis effects for improved accuracy.

Step 7: Examining Stability and Drift

• Definition: Stability refers to a sensor's ability to maintain consistent performance over time, while drift indicates changes in output over time without input changes.
• Practical Advice:
  • Regularly calibrate sensors to maintain accuracy over time.
  • Select sensors with low drift characteristics for long-term applications.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding the characteristics of sensors—sensitivity, range, resolution, response time, linearity, hysteresis, stability, and drift—is essential for selecting the right sensor for your application. By applying these principles, you can enhance the effectiveness of your sensor-based systems. As a next step, consider evaluating the specific requirements of your project to choose the most appropriate sensors based on the discussed characteristics.