A sensor is a device that measures physical input from its environment and converts it into data that can be interpreted by either a human or a machine. Most sensors are electronic (the data is converted into electronic data), but some are more simple, such as a glass thermometer, which presents visual data.

➤The major difference between analog sensor and digital sensor is based on their respective output. As mentioned above, analog sensor produces analog output where as digital sensor produces digital output.

Analog and digital signals are used to transmit information, usually through electric signals. In both these technologies, the information, such as any audio or video, is transformed into electric signals.

• Vision and Imaging Sensors.
• Temperature Sensors.
• Radiation Sensors.
• Proximity Sensors.
• Pressure Sensors.
• Position Sensors.
• Photoelectric Sensors.
• Particle Sensors.

A sensor converts the physical action to be measured into an electrical equivalent and processes it so that the electrical signals can be easily sent and further processed. The sensor can output whether an object is present or not present (binary) or what measurement value has been reached (analog or digital).

Introduction to Applications of Sensors. The sensor is an electronic device that measures physical attributes such as temperature, pressure, distance, speed, torque, acceleration, etc., from equipment, appliances, machines and any other systems. Sensors are broadly grouped into analog and digital sensors.

proximity sensor

In diffuse sensors, the presence of an object in the optical field of view causes diffused reflection of the beam. The receiver detects the light reflecting back from the object itself. Reflective and through-beam sensors create a beam of light and detect any opaque object that breaks the beam.

With these properties piezoelectric materials are applicable for sensing and actuation. In this field three types of materials are used; piezoelectric polymers, ceramics, and composites. An example of a polymer is Polyvinyldifluoride (PVDF). Besides quartz and ZnO are often used piezoelectric materials.

What is the difference between censor, sensor, and censure? To censor means to forbid. A sensor is a detector. Censure is displeasure.

Applications include manufacturing and machinery, airplanes and aerospace, cars, medicine, robotics and many other aspects of our day-to-day life. There are a wide range of other sensors, measuring chemical & physical properties of materials.