Digital sensors

Digital sensors

Digital sensors are commonly used in modern electronics due to their ability to provide a digital signal that can be decoded by a microcontroller. Unlike analog sensors, digital sensors have a built-in ADC and a microcontroller or a simple chip that converts the resulting result for subsequent transmission via one or another digital protocol. Additionally, digital sensors can receive commands from the controller, allowing users to change measurement parameters on the fly, without the need to calibrate and configure the sensor. This feature also reduces electricity consumption, which is crucial for battery-independent systems.

Another advantage of digital sensors is their factory calibration, which ensures that the measurement accuracy will be the same regardless of the conditions of their connection, the presence of external interference, etc. This simplifies system setup, especially if it uses large arrays of sensors.

The digital signal produced by the sensor can use one or another data encryption protocol such as serial protocol, i2c or RS-485. These protocols allow users to connect a large number of sensors using only two digital inputs, decipher which data comes from which sensor, and independently control each of them.

Digital sensors were once more expensive than analog sensors, but their cost has significantly decreased over time due to advancements in microchip technology. Although digital sensors cannot be used directly in electronic circuits without using a separate controller, this limitation is not a significant disadvantage as analog electronic circuits are not widespread.

Therefore, it is essential to master digital sensors and their connection and use features, regardless of the complexity of the project or the applied application.

Electrical load shedding system with temperature sensor

Electrical load shedding system with temperature sensor

The system is designed for emergency shutdown of electrical load based on the readings of a wireless infrared temperature sensor

The MLX90614 infrared non-contact thermometer measures the temperature of an object and transmits the data to the controller, which turns on or off the relay that controls the load

Automatic solar tracker for rotation of solar panel based on illumination measurement

Automatic solar tracker for rotation of solar panel based on illumination measurement

The system is installed on solar panels with a rotation mechanism based on a DC motor. Designed to turn the solar panel towards higher illuminance to maximize luminous flux. Two light sensors are located on the panel - at an angle to the sides of rotation. If the illumination on the left or right sensor is higher by a certain amount, the panel will rotate in this direction.

Alarm system with ultrasonic proximity sensors

Alarm system with ultrasonic proximity sensors

When the proximity sensor is triggered (when approaching or moving away to a certain distance or when motion is detected), a sound signal or a pre-made recording is output. Each sensor can be configured independently. The recording displayed on the speakers is different, depending on the triggered sensor, or one for all The sound signal can be turned off either after the obstacle disappears, or will continue until manual shutdown.

Automated ballast discharge from a balloon

Automated ballast discharge from a balloon

Automated ballast discharge from a balloon using GPS coordinates with a GSM communication channel. The system is installed on a balloon and is designed for emergency ballast release to avoid a collision with the ground in conditions when the balloon driver for some reason does not do this on his own

Gyroscopic dynamics measurement system for vehicle

Gyroscopic dynamics measurement system for vehicle

The passive system does not require a connection to the car's on-board computer, it is enough to install it rigidly inside the cabin. After turning on, the system begins to receive data on accelerations and turns in real-time, based on which it generates relative data on movement, turn, speed, and acceleration. Data is transferred to a PC via USB connection (COM-port emulation) and processed by a control application

Water pumping control system

Water pumping control system

The system for installation on a pipeline for liquids pumping and control of the transportation process. Includes fluid flow sensors, motor current sensor and control relay for online control of process parameters, logging, emergency automatic and manual control of pumping.

Irrigation control system

Irrigation control system

Irrigation control system for automatic maintenance of plant climate parameters using sensors, control via web interface and remote informing via mobile network