What are sensors?
A sensor is a device that detects and responds to some type of input from the physical environment. The specific input could be light, heat, motion, moisture, pressure, or any one of a great number of other environmental phenomena. The output is generally a signal that is converted to human-readable display at the sensor location or transmitted electronically over a network for reading or further processing. These sophisticated devices are also known as transducers. This means that their purpose is to transform one form of energy to another.
Types of Sensors
As you can see, there are several types of sensors. Some more sensitive than others, some heavier, more powerful, and with different ranges- short, short-medium, and medium-long. Sensors as previously explained are used to transform one source of energy into another. That is why each one is given a different use.
Uses of Sensors
The significance of sensors is constantly growing. They have given a use to monitor and detect our surroundings in ways unimaginable decades ago. They are used in industry, safety and security, here in classrooms and even in education. In industry networked vibration sensors are used to alert a bearing beginning to fail so that mechanics are able to come in with a solution to the problem and prevent an expensive and impromptu shutdown. They are also able to monitor fire danger in remote forest areas. Another useful sensor is the Nitrate sensor that detects industrial and agricultural runoff in rivers, streams and wells while seismic monitors offer an early warning of earthquakes.
For safety and security, wireless sensors are installed to detect fires as well as provide emergency communication networks with the necessary information to aid those in dangerous situations. In hospitals, post offices, and transportation centers, chemical and biological sensors are used to detect signs if anthrax, smallpox, or other terror agents.
In classrooms, sensor technology is used to provide teachers with other useful technology that will helps them record analytical data when carrying out experiments. Not only does this make work easier for the teacher, it also makes it more efficient.
Finally, sensors have a significant impact on education. It simplifies the way math and science is seen to those who have a difficult time with the two subjects. It permits a repetition and modification in science experiments and even encourages critical thinking.
For safety and security, wireless sensors are installed to detect fires as well as provide emergency communication networks with the necessary information to aid those in dangerous situations. In hospitals, post offices, and transportation centers, chemical and biological sensors are used to detect signs if anthrax, smallpox, or other terror agents.
In classrooms, sensor technology is used to provide teachers with other useful technology that will helps them record analytical data when carrying out experiments. Not only does this make work easier for the teacher, it also makes it more efficient.
Finally, sensors have a significant impact on education. It simplifies the way math and science is seen to those who have a difficult time with the two subjects. It permits a repetition and modification in science experiments and even encourages critical thinking.