Sensing

As machinery's virtual 'eyes, ears, smell and touch', sensors tell the brain of the system, the PLC, what it needs to know to make decisions.

• Read article: Making sense of it all
• Guide to sensors and sensing chart
• See all our sensors & transducers

Technology

Sensors convert a variable (temperature, pressure, etc.) into an electrical signal.
Many technologies are available, with information below.

Temperature sensors Thermocouple & resistance thermometer cables Thermocouple colour codes Resistance thermometry theory Thermal response rates of thermocouples Pressure sensors Pressure conversion chart Pressure measurement types Inductive proximity sensors Explanation of terms Sensing distance information Position sensors Encoder output types DRS61 encoder Flow & level sensing Chemical compatability chart Mobrey level measurement product selector Fluid management

Photoelectric sensors Photoelectric definitions Fibre optic sensors guide Photoelectric explanation of terms Case studies Conveying Automotive industry Machine tools Plastics industry Electricity production Preventing spills