Temperature sensors have many applications, from machinery and equipment to business use to home use, and more. Read on to learn how they work, what they're used for, and more.
What Is a Temperature Sensor?
A temperature sensor gives precise measurements of the temperature in an environment. It does the following:
- Responds quickly to temperature change
- Generates electrical resistance with metals
- Sends signals where there's a temperature change
Some all-in-one units may be sensitive to temperature, but standalone sensors are separate from devices that display temperature data. Instead, sensors send data to a gateway, often wirelessly. Then, the data moves to the cloud, which lets users monitor temperature from anywhere.
Main Types of Temperature Sensors
There are seven types of temperature sensors:
- Negative temperature coefficient (NTC)
- Thermistors
- Resistance temperature detectors
- Thermocouples
- Semi-conductors
- Infrared sensors
- Bimetallic devices
- Thermometers
What Is a Remote Temperature Sensor?
Sometimes, you'll need a remote temperature sensor to help you keep track of an environment's temperature on the go. These small, battery-powered devices transmit measurements from a distance.
A remote sensor senses the temperature, humidity, and pressure around the device. It then transmits the data wirelessly. It also has a cloud function that lets you check the reading on your phone.
For accurate readings, install your remote temperature sensor at chest height. Place it about 50 meters away from the thermostat. It's great for places like the living room or bedroom where you tend to spend more time. The sensor will adjust to the room temperature. Remember to place the sensor away from heat sources and non-ventilated or uninsulated surfaces.
How Do You Test an Infrared Temperature Sensor?
Infrared temperature sensors use lenses to direct energy to a detector. The detector then converts that energy to an electric signal, which it displays in temperature units.
Since you'll be sensing the current temperature a little distance from the environment, you need to be sure you're getting an accurate reading. To test the accuracy of an infrared sensor, pour ice into a glass jar. Then add water to fill the jar.
Let it rest for a few minutes before stirring. Then, hold the sensor away from the iced water. Don't let it touch the water. If you get between 32° F or 0° C, the reading is accurate.
How Do Bluetooth Temperature Sensors Work?
Bluetooth temperature sensors cover even more distance than the infrared types. That is why you must be sure that they are giving you precise results. Bluetooth sensors are smaller and more efficient. They rely on Bluetooth low energy (BLE) technology to transmit data to a gateway hotspot. You can use them in freezers, cold chain vans or trucks, and other temperature-sensitive places.
Bluetooth temperature sensors use advanced Bluetooth technology to read their environment. They also cover a bigger range compared to their infrared counterparts.
How Can You Use a Wi-Fi Temperature Sensor?
A Wi-Fi temperature sensor remotely measures environmental temperature. It sends the data through the internet. You can access data using a computer with preinstalled software or a mobile app.
This type isn't ideal for open environments and offers better results in smaller places. Use a Wi-Fi sensor to measure temperature in confined spaces like the kitchen, bathroom, office, or garage.
What Is the Difference Between Wireless Temperature Sensor and Handheld Unit?
Wireless temperature sensors work for a wide range of spaces. You won't need to connect cables on the floor, walls, or ceilings. These sensors are the best for structures like cold storage systems and greenhouses. You can keep adding new sensors to extend coverage without any additional wiring costs.
On the other hand, if you need to expand coverage with a wireless handheld unit, you'll have to restructure, reconfigure, and rerun wires.
What Does the Google Nest Temperature Sensor Do?
Google Nest temperature sensors are great at helping maintain a comfortable temperature. Choose the location where you'd like to monitor the temperature, and add a Google Nest sensor.
Google Nest temperature sensors are accurate in their readings, and they'll provide you with precise data. They constantly evaluate real-world data and send updates via the Nest Thermostat software algorithms for improved temperature settings.
What Is the Function of the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor?
Engine coolant temperature sensors monitor engines to help avoid overheating. For example, in a car, the coolant temperature sensor is usually on the left side of the cylinder head. It measures and monitors the temperature of coolants in engines. It also indicates the amount of heat the engine lets off.
Humidity sensors use electrical resistance to determine coolant temperature. They send signals to the system if they detect overheating. This notification allows you to make necessary adjustments to make sure the engine runs well.
Which Temperature Sensor Is Best for Arduino?
Arduinos are programmable microcontroller boards. Hobbyists, artists, and other creatives use them to create interactive electronics. An Arduino temperature sensor measures temperature with diodes instead of resistors. Whenever temperature changes, so does the voltage.
The Arduino sensor measures tiny changes, and DHT11 is the most popular temperature and humidity module for Arduino. Its low energy consumption, durability, and cost make it a good choice.
What Is an Ambient Air Temperature Sensor?
People in vehicles need to be comfortable, especially in freezing or near-freezing conditions. That's where an ambient air temperature sensor comes in. This sensor measures temperature outside the passenger compartment.
It is often fixed inside or close to a vehicle's front bumper to send info to the HVAC system automatically. As a result, the vehicle's inner temperature remains regulated to keep you comfortable.
To replace and reset it, check the sensor at the front of the engine. Then, detach the battery. After that, you can gently disconnect the sensor with a screw and reset or replace the ambient sensor.
How Do You Use the Outdoor Temperature Sensor?
Temperatures outside your home or the office can affect temperatures inside, too. Outdoor temperature sensors send signals to your HVAC system to adjust to the coolness or heat inside.
To use them, mount the sensor vertically at least six feet from the ground. Choose a well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight. Also, place the sensor with a solar panel eastward to tap early morning cooler sunlight. Keep away from heat-generating appliances like dryer vents, window panes, and door frames.
How Would You Know That an Intake Air Temperature Sensor Is Bad?
An intake air temperature sensor monitors the flow of air into the engine. An engine light indicates trouble. Check for signs of a failing intake air temperature sensor. Addressing the problem can prevent additional damage.
How Do Oven Temperature Sensors Work?
To achieve even baking, get a better taste and texture of heated food, and avoid overcooking, you'll need an oven temperature sensor. These sensors work by alternating the temperature within the oven through a sensor connected to its control. The control reads modifications in the sensor and adapts the power to the oven elements by switching it off or on.
To test an oven temperature sensor probe, ensure the sensor is at room temperature. Check the resistance between the prongs at the tail of the connector; the voltage reading should be between 1080-1090.
How Are Temperature Sensors Used in Industries?
Temperature affects several industrial processes. Working under inaccurate temperatures like an overheated environment can reduce equipment lifetime, or storing goods in a too-cold setting can damage them.
Also, pressures, vibrations, and high process temperatures that often define an industry make it necessary to have a temperature sensor handy. The two common types for industrial application are thermocouples and resistance temperature detectors.
Temperature Sensors vs. Other Markers?
Other devices perform similar functions as temperature sensors, but it's important to know the difference.
Temperature Sensor vs. Thermometer
Temperature sensors measure temperature through electric signals by generating electrical voltage or resistance whenever there is a temperature change. A thermometer measures the hotness or coldness of something.
Temperature Sensor vs. Thermostat
A temperature sensor gives details of temperature readings on another device. A thermostat is installed into a device to set and control the temperature.
Temperature Sensor vs. Thermistor
A thermistor is thermally sensitive and reveals slight temperature changes. But the temperature sensor sends that data to an external location so you can monitor the changes.
Temperature Sensor vs. Humidity Sensor
A temperature sensor detects and measures the hotness or coldness of an environment. Humidity sensors measure the humidity levels to determine how moist it is.
Temperature Sensor vs. Temperature Probe
A temperature probe measures temperature directly on a surface. It can be screwed into an object or sunk into a liquid to monitor temperature change.
A temperature sensor monitors, regulates, and maintains cold and hot temperatures in the atmosphere, water, and air. It's susceptible, efficient, and easy to use.
Where to Buy Reliable Temperature Sensors
You can get your temperature sensor from any reliable store that supplies hardware products. Novotech, a major distributor of loT and other hardware services, offers reliable temperature and humidity sensors for home use, small business and applications, and more.