Successfully growing high-value crops such as fruit (citrus, apples, grapes, cherries, kiwis, table grapes, pomegranates, and more) and nuts (almonds, pecans, pistachios, and more) requires farmers’ continuous attention. If a problem is not detected, the crop yield could be significantly reduced. Sensors provide the foundation and play an essential role in the evolving detection processes. […]
Infrared
Tiny IR sensor modules feature modulated carrier output for code learning
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. introduced three new miniaturized infrared (IR) sensor modules for remote control systems. Featuring modulated carrier output for code learning applications, the Vishay Semiconductors dual-lens TSMP95000 and single-lens TSMP96000 and TSMP98000 combine a wide supply voltage range from 2.0 V to 5.5 V with a low typical power consumption of 0.35 mA at 3.3 V. […]
IR motion sensor also detects still object
STMicroelectronics is launching a novel human-presence and -motion detector to enhance security systems, home automation equipment, and IoT devices that typically use passive infrared (PIR) sensing. The STHS34PF80 sensor contains thermal transistors that can detect stationary objects, unlike conventional PIR detectors that require the detected object to be moving to produce a measurable response from the sensor. Also, while […]
How can mature sensors create new sensing opportunities?
Pulse oximetry (blood oxygen saturation level in %SpO2) and pulse rate (in beats per minute) have been performed with clamp on the finger measurements for many years. With their built-in display, they are intended for either a health care professional or even the user reading of the measurements. In some instances, these devices even provide […]
What sensors does NASA use to monitor Martian weather?
The Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA) on the Perseverance rover is characterizing the surface weather as well as the dust particle size and morphology. Understanding dust behavior is a key to predicting Martian weather. Dust influences Mars’ weather the way that water controls Earth’s weather. Two of MEDA’s weather-related goals are: determination of the destructive […]
How do time-of-flight sensors work?
Using the time-of-flight (ToF) principle, a ToF sensor measures the distance between the sensor and an object. The sensor emits a signal that is reflected off an object and then detects the time for a round trip to occur. Typically, either light or sound waves can provide the transmitted signal. In either case, the distance […]
Ultra-low-power IC supports accurate measurement of ECG, temperature, differential capacitance and optical signals
Ensilica has announced the ENS62020, an ultra-low-power healthcare sensor interface IC for monitoring vital signs in wearable healthcare and medical devices. The chip, which will be initially available with evaluation boards, has been created to meet the needs of a diverse array of home-use and single-use medical sensors – from oximeters to smart plasters – […]
What sensors are in a smart cane? Pt 1
Blind or visually impaired individuals have to rely on other senses and typically have heightened capability – especially for hearing and touch. Using a white cane provides feedback in both of these areas. World Health Organization (WHO) data says that there are more than 253 million visually impaired people worldwide. Many of these individuals rely […]
How can you sense ripening fruit?
A diet high in fruit (and vegetables) can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, cancer, inflammation and diabetes. But the fruit needs to be fresh for a sustainable, healthy diet. Several techniques are being used to detect ripening fruit. One company, smartGAS in Germany, has two different sensors to detect the ethylene (C2H4) that […]
Infrared detectors boast high thermal sensitivity
Lynred announces enhanced capabilities across the whole range of its 12 µm infrared detectors, to enable optronics systems to more accurately identify objects in low-contrast scenes. These 12 µm pixel pitch infrared detectors, based on a microbolometer technology, come with enhanced thermal sensitivity, permitting use in limitless applications. Applications include integration into outdoor leisure equipment […]
