The accurate choice of selecting a sensor depends on the knowledge about the application type, the variable of product and the condition in the operating environment. In this article, we will be discussing the factors to be considered while selecting a sensor. There may be other conditions based on specific requirements. The following topics will be covered in this article.
CONTENTS
1. Measuring range
While selecting a sensor (temperature sensor, proximity sensor, accelerometer sensor, etc), the range of measuring should directly correspond with the physical measuring range so that we can obtain the most precise reading and optimal sensor lifespan.
2. Environment
We must be aware of environmental conditions while installing a product. Numerous sensors can be affected by the environmental conditions (such as temperature variation, gas, humidity, chemicals, etc.)
3.Flexibility
While selecting a sensor, we need to check if it can provide flexibility, like features that can adapt to changing the products.
4. Digital lowers costs.
It is always better to use a sensor which gave gives a digital output. It is better to avoid using the analog field devices, even though they minimize the cost because while converting from analog to digital that can produce errors. A digital output equivalent sensors are more worth.
The above image in which there are two types of the accelerometer. One is analog and the other one is digital. For industrial application, it is better to use digital accelerometer instead of an analog accelerometer
5. Intelligent sensors
It is better to adopt intelligent sensors that can be scaled, calibrated or configured remotely.
Smart sensors are those which take up data from the environment and use the predefined function to perform some actions.
6. Accuracy and Precision
Precision and Accuracy does not mean the same thing, though they are often related. Accuracy is the quality or state of being correct or while the precision ability of the devices to notice small changes (As an example, a temperature sensor that measures the normal body as 35.999°C has high precision but low accuracy.) The Accuracy and precision and one of a given product should be appropriate. Too high precision can give a wrong indication that the value is too accurate. Similarly, a sensor with good accuracy will be expensive. The error can affect both precision and accuracy.
The above example explains us about accuracy and precision
7. Excitation
We must provide power to most of the devices. The power which is provided must not introduce any error.
8. Signal Conditioning
Electrical noise is present everywhere, mainly on the production floor which can produce huge errors in reading. So, protection circuits and Signal conditioners can provide some protection.
In mobile manufacturing industry ESD safety is a must because electronic products are very sensitive to electrostatic charges so we use a wrist strap, grounded floor mat, heel strap, air ionizer, etc.
9.Sudden temperature changes
The sensor must be in such a situation that it can overcome the sudden temperature changes and work properly without producing errors.
