Section 2 - Sensors

Definition:
A sensor is
A sensor is a device that converts a real-world property (e.g. temperature) into data that a computer can process. Sensors detect real world
values. A sensor measures the amount of something ; Sensors are used to provide input in measurement applications, a sensor is a input
device it is a part of hardware.
KEY POINT: Sensors are used to

Task 1
Each of the pictures below shows a different type of sensor. Work out what type of sensor each one is and what system its part of.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

A
A
A
A
A

motion Sensor, being used in a automatic door System

movement
Sensor, being used in secuity System
inafared
Sensor, being used in a used in a light switch
System
temperature Sensor, being used in a air con System
optical Sensor, being used in a finger print recognistion System

Task 2
24
1
23
22
21

Time

Analogue

Time
Digital

Analogue data is transmission method of conveying voice, data, image, signal or video information using a
continuous signal which varies in amplitude, phase, or some other property in proportion to that of a variable.
Analogue data changes in small increments it doesnt jump

Digital data is data that is stored as 0 and 1s. computers only understand digital data

An analogue-to-digital converter (ADC, A/D, or A to D) is a device that converts a continuous physical quantity
(usually voltage) to a digital number that represents the quantity's amplitude. It is nessercacy because sensors
produce analogue data, computers only understand or work digital data therefore conversion is nessercay.

Task 3

A heating system uses a sensor to decide when the radiators should be turned on and off.
The controls are set to maintain a room temperature of 22 Degrees C
When the system turns on, the water must flow round and be constantly warmed.
Sensors

Output Devices

Pressure

Light

Motor

Heater

Moisture

Infra-Red

Pump

Buzzer

Temperature

Light

1. What Sensor(s) would be needed in this system? Explain their use

The sensor needed would be temperature. Temperature is needed in a heating system without the device
wouldnt know when to turn on or off.

2. What output devices would be needed in this system? Explain their use
The output device needed is a heater and a pump, it is called a heating system its kind of obvious.

3. Fill in the PROCESSES (rules) below that this system would need to follow

Example: If the speed is greater than 70 then turn the motor OFF.

Rule 1: If the temperature is greater than 22c then turn the system off.
Rule 2: If the temperature is less than 22c then turn on the heating system.

Sensors Exam questions

moister
temperature
light

Adc, analogue data converter

To answer this question, you will need to think about the rules you created in the final lesson task