Lesson 1 of 1
Step 1: The basics of sensors and the reason for using them
In the first step of the "Sensors in 7 steps" course, we will get to know the general concept of sensor and the reason for its use in electronic and embedded systems. We examine why there are different sensors to measure a specific quantity and why one sensor cannot be considered suitable for all projects. Also, we get to know some important criteria for choosing a sensor, such as measurement range, accuracy, resolution, response speed, output type, environmental conditions, power consumption, and cost. These criteria will be examined in more detail in the next step.
"Sensors in 7 steps" course
Basics of sensors; Why do we need sensors?
In this step, we will get to know the role of sensors in electronic and embedded systems, we will check the difference between sensors and see why the selection of sensors should be done based on the actual needs of the project.
The first session: Getting to know the basics of sensors
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Why do we use sensors in an electronic system?
An electronic system needs to receive information from its surroundings to make decisions. A sensor has exactly the same role: it receives a physical or environmental quantity and converts it into a signal or data that a circuit, microcontroller or processing system can use.
For example, in a temperature control system, the microcontroller does not automatically know the temperature of the environment. The temperature sensor provides this information to the system so that a decision can be made based on it, such as turning on or off the fan, heater or creating an alarm.
Why are the sensors different?
One quantity, several different sensors
There may be several families and models of sensors to measure a specific quantity, for example temperature. The difference between these sensors is not just in the name or brand; Each one is designed for different conditions and needs.
Selection based on project
A sensor that is suitable for an educational project is not necessarily suitable for an industrial product, noisy environment, outdoor or high precision application. Therefore, the selection of the sensor should start from the actual need of the project.
Sensors are selected based on what features?
In this session, we will be familiar with these criteria and in the next step, we will examine them more closely.
A "good" sensor is not necessarily good for all projects
Suppose you have two projects: one is a simple room temperature monitor and the other is an industrial control system. Both projects measure "temperature", but their requirements are not the same.
- In a simple project, low price and easy setup may be more important.
- In industrial project, accuracy, stability, temperature range, noise resistance and reliability are more important.
- In a battery-powered device, power consumption can be one of the most important selection criteria.
Conclusion: Before choosing the sensor model, we must first know what exactly the project expects from the sensor.
What should you know after this meeting?
- Know why a sensor is used in an electronic system.
- Understand that different sensors, even for a common quantity, can have different characteristics.
- Know that sensor selection should be done based on the needs of the project, not just the name, price, or reputation of a model.
- Familiarize yourself with the main criteria for sensor selection at an introductory level.
Technical features and sensor selection criteria
In the second step, we go into details and examine criteria such as accuracy, resolution, measurement range, sensitivity, response speed, environmental conditions, output type, power consumption and cost.
The questions of this step
Is there only one right sensor for a specific application?
no There are usually several options and the final choice depends on the project needs, required accuracy, environmental conditions, type of output, cost and other constraints.
Is a more expensive sensor always a better choice?
no The right sensor is a sensor that meets the needs of the project with a reasonable cost and complexity.
When do we fully review the sensor selection criteria?
In the second step of the course, the technical criteria of sensor selection will be examined in more detail.