What’s the Difference Between Analog and Digital Sensors?

A signal can be classified into two main categories: digital and analog. Basically, a signal is all about information being shared between two different electronic devices. But remember, signals aren’t just for electronics! They also pop up in things like regular thermometers, where the temperature shows up through the expansion or contraction of mercury.

Analog Signals
An analog signal is a continuous signal that changes depending on when you look at it. For example, think of the human voice as an analog signal.

Digital Signals
On the other hand, digital signals are discrete, usually made up of two values: low and high. So, what’s the difference between the two? And what are they used for? Let’s dive in!

Digital Sensors
As mentioned earlier, digital sensors create discrete digital voltages or signals, giving a digital representation of measurements. They show binary output in ones and zeros. Plus, digital sensors are often cheaper than analog ones and have a fast transmission rate with little distortion.

Many folks prefer digital sensors because they don’t have the same limitations as analog sensors. You’ll often find digital sensors in applications like wastewater treatment, water purification, and other industrial processes. If you’re buying a digital sensor, it usually comes with a sensor, a transmitter, and a cable.

What Can Digital Sensors Measure?
Some common things digital sensors can measure include conductivity, pH levels, ammonium concentration, nitrate concentration, and dissolved oxygen. While regular digital sensors provide accurate results, there’s also a more advanced type known as smart sensors. These smart sensors modernize and streamline measurements using digital and wireless communication.

Smart Sensors
Smart sensors are a fancier, feature-rich version of digital sensors. They usually offer more precise data collection and a lower chance of errors. You’ll find them used for monitoring in places like exploration, smart grids, and water treatment.

The main parts of a smart sensor include a microprocessor, a sensor, and some kind of communication tech. Smart sensors need computing resources. If a sensor can only send data for remote processing, it’s not quite smart enough. Extra components might include amplifiers, analog filters, and transducers. They often have software that helps with digital processing, communication, and data conversion with other devices.

Here are five types of smart sensors commonly found in industrial settings:

Level Sensors
These measure how much space is taken up in a container. For example, a fuel gauge in a car can be connected to one of these sensors to keep track of how much fuel is left.

Pressure Sensors
These monitor the pressure of fluids and gases in pipelines. If pressure drops quickly, the sensor sends out a warning about possible flow control issues or leaks.

Temperature Sensors
These keep an eye on temperatures to figure out when something needs to be fixed. In industrial settings, they help prevent machines from overheating. Without these sensors, it would be tough to notice overheating in machinery.

Infrared Sensors
Digital infrared sensors come in various forms. Some are non-contact infrared thermometers or thermal imaging cameras for monitoring temperature. Others are optical sensors that detect specific infrared light frequencies, often used in medical devices like pulse oximeters.

Proximity Sensors
These detect how close an object or person is to the sensor. In retail stores, they can track customer movements throughout the space.