What are Detectors?

Detectors are devices that detect and respond to some type of input from the physical environment. The specific input could be light, heat, motion, moisture, pressure, or any other physical phenomenon that can be measured. By converting the input to an electronic signal, detectors enable monitoring and automating real-world processes.

Types of Common Detectors

There are many different types of detectors based on the specific input they are designed to detect. Here are some of the most common detectors used today:

Light Detectors

Light detectors detect illumination levels and are used commonly in automatic lighting controls, camera auto-focus systems, and digital clocks that glow in the dark. Common light detectors include photo resistors, photo diodes, and photo transistors that change their electrical properties depending on the amount of light striking their active surface.

Temperature Sensor

Temperature detectors measure ambient or surface temperature and often output an analog voltage that varies with temperature. Sensor Thermistors and thermocouples are widely used temperature detectors. Thermocouples generate a small voltage proportional to the temperature difference between two junctions of dissimilar metals. Thermistors change their electrical resistance with temperature in a known manner. Temperature detectors find applications in thermostats, medical equipment, heating/cooling systems and more.

Motion Detectors

Motion detectors detect movement of objects and people. Passive infrared (PIR) motion detectors are commonly seen in outdoor lighting and security systems. Ultrasonic motion detectors detect motion by sensing changes in ultrasonic patterns. Optical mouse detectors also fall into this category as they sense motion and movement. Industrial robots often use motion detectors to detect position and speed.

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