The linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) is a widely used, inherently rugged, linear-position sensor offering accurate and consistent performance over a wide span of distances. Part 1 of this FAQ looked at the basic operation of the LVDT. This part looks at some of its other performance attributes and characteristics. Q: What does an LVDT […]
FAQ
LVDT position sensor, Part 1: basics and principles
The linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) is a widely used, inherently rugged, linear-position sensor offering accurate and consistent performance over a wide span of distances. Sensing of physical position is among the most commonly needed parameters in industrial, military/aerospace, robotics, scientific measurement, and control applications, and there are many sensors in use to accomplish this. […]
How to optimize building and home automation designs to be more energy-efficient
By Brian Dempsey, system design engineer, Texas Instruments The numbers are a wake-up call: According to the United Nations, the buildings and construction sector accounted for 36% of the world’s energy consumption in 2018, contributing to a worrisome carbon footprint. And those percentages continue to grow. As a result, the race is on. Industrial design […]
What are cryogenic temperature measurements? part 1
Cryogenic temperatures may seem only of limited interest, but they are actually critical in many instrumentation and other systems. Measuring these ultralow temperatures is both easy and difficult, depending on temperature, material, and mass. Temperature is the most commonly measured physical variable, whether it’s just to assess the local weather to manage the performance of […]
What is a sphygmomanometer?
While sphygmo could be a problem, the manometer part should easily indicate that this has something to do with pressure. Sphygmo is based on a Greek word for pulse. Dating back to 1881, this blood pressure measuring instrument initially used a mercury column or manometer to indicate a person’s pulse in millimeters of mercury. However, […]
How do you calculate flow from a pressure measurement?
A variety of techniques are used to measure flow, including the Coriolis Effect, mass air flow, vortex, magnetic, thermal, ultrasonic, turbine, and positive displacement meters as well as pressure sensors. With the high volume, low cost, and reliability of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) pressure sensors, these products are a frequent choice for measuring both liquid and […]
