The low-cost, reliable, ubiquitous smoke detector is an example of complex physics and optics made real by semiconductors. Technology is always improving and adding features to existing products, and that’s true of smoke detectors and alarms. At the same time, the “protection” world is very cautious about adding features and frills which may detract, impede, […]
FAQ
Smoke detectors and alarms, Part 3
The low-cost, reliable, ubiquitous smoke detector is an example of complex physics and optics made real by semiconductors. Given the huge market for smoke alarms of both types—easily tens of millions of units per year for new and replacement/upgrade units—it’s no surprise that many IC vendors offer components and reference designs for this application. It […]
Smoke detectors and alarms, Part 2
The low-cost, reliable, ubiquitous smoke detector is an example of complex physics and optics made real by semiconductors. This part looks at the two widely used approaches to smoke detection. Q: How do smoke detectors actually detect smoke? A: There are two basic and very different approaches, one based on photoelectric principles and the other […]
Smoke detectors and alarms, Part 1
The low-cost, reliable, ubiquitous smoke detector is an example of complex physics and optics made real by semiconductors. We’ve come to accept the basic residential smoke detector, which retails for just $15 to $30, as a standard home-safety accessory. Most building codes now require these in or near designated areas such as the kitchen, bedroom […]
What is 3D scanning?
Since 3D scanners have become more affordable, 3D scanning has changed the world of custom 3D printing. Once, 3D scanning was only used in military equipment and spacecraft parts production. With desktop and handheld 3D printers available for a few hundred dollars, 3D scanning has found a place in home fun and hobby projects. You […]
Hybrid sensors for connected vehicles
The dependence of smart vehicle features on sensing technology has manufacturers thinking about how to field devices that combine functions in economical ways. Estimates are that today’s vehicles can have between 60 and 100 sensors onboard. And over the next decade the number of sensors is expected to double. No wonder, then, there are efforts […]
How does the PICMG IoT.1 specification for smart IoT sensors work?
The PCI Industrial Computer Manufacturer’s Group (PICMG) is developing a series of specifications to enable plug-and-play interoperability of smart sensors and effectors. The effort includes the large installed base of legacy non-IoT (not IP-enabled) devices and newer IoT-enabled smart sensors. The PICMG program includes development of a family of three IoT specifications. PICMG IoT.1 is […]
What’s the difference between 2-, 3-, & 4-wire RDT sensing?
The difference is measurement accuracy. Using 2-wire resistance temperature detector (RTD) sensing provides good accuracy (maybe), the accuracy of 3-wire sensing is better, and 4-wire sensing provides the best accuracy. In addition, there’s the option of using Wheatstone bridge topologies to improve the performance of 2- and 3-wire RDTs. This FAQ begins with a review […]
What are the types and uses of position sensors?
Position sensing is a critical function across a wide range of applications, from robot drive chains to conveyor belts in supply chain operations to the swaying of wind turbine towers. It can take many forms, including linear, rotary, angular, absolute, incremental, contact, and non-contact sensors. Specialized sensors have been developed that can determine positions in […]
What are emerging sensor technologies for Agriculture 4.0?
Agriculture 4.0 is emerging and requires an expended sensor suite. Agriculture 4.0 refers to systems that employ drones, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), vertical farms, artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, and advanced sensor methodologies. Agriculture 4.0 is similar to Industry 4.0 in some ways: Where Industry 4.0 is designed to support automation and mass […]
