TECHNOLOGY
From physical signals
to useful information.
Understand the sensing principle before choosing the component. A measurement only becomes useful when the complete signal chain is considered.
01MeasureConvert a physical change into a signal.
02ConditionFilter, amplify and digitise as required.
03InterpretApply context, rules or local processing.
04ActInform a person or a validated control system.
Conceptual signal chain. Some devices combine several stages; not every application needs AI or a network connection.
01 / INDUSTRIAL
Precision starts at the interface.
The medium, mechanical connection and expected operating range shape the sensor choice.
[1] TE sensor portfolio →| Measurement | Typical context | Questions to resolve |
|---|
| Pressure & flow | Fluid systems and process monitoring | Pressure range, fluid compatibility, sealing and response time |
| Position & force | Actuators, mechanisms and load measurement | Travel, mounting stiffness, overload and repeatability |
| Temperature | Equipment and process monitoring | Contact method, thermal response and drift |
02 / ENVIRONMENTAL
Measure the environment in context.
Enclosure design and placement affect what an environmental sensor actually sees.
[7] Sensirion product catalogue →| Measurement | Typical context | Questions to resolve |
|---|
| Humidity & temperature | Building and equipment conditions | Air exposure, condensation, self-heating and calibration |
| CO₂ & gas sensing | Ventilation and gas-specific monitoring | Target gas, cross-sensitivity, range and maintenance |
| Flow & differential pressure | Air and fluid movement | Medium, tubing geometry, pressure loss and contamination |
03 / INTELLIGENT
Intelligence closer to the measurement.
Local processing can turn raw measurements into features or events before transmission.
[9] ST industrial MEMS →| Measurement | Typical context | Questions to resolve |
|---|
| Motion & vibration | Machine behaviour and orientation | Bandwidth, sample rate, mounting, aliasing and noise |
| Optical & proximity | Presence and distance detection | Target reflectivity, field of view and ambient interference |
| Embedded processing | Features, classifications and events | Validated model, latency, memory and energy budget |
Write the requirement before the part number.
Specify range, resolution, total error, operating temperature, response time, interface, power, mounting and recalibration needs. Check each candidate against the actual manufacturer datasheet.
Explore data and power implications →