Sensors

Analog Devices is expanding its iSensor intelligent sensor product family with the introduction of two highly-integrated inertial sensors that greatly simplify the complex task of embedded shock and vibration sensing within harsh industrial environments. Based on Analog Devices' iMEMS inertial sensor cores, these fully autonomous system-ready devices are one-tenth the cost and 100 times smaller than previous less-integrated, brick-level sensor mo...

The ATS617 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a three-wire differential Hall-effect sensor that combines enhanced EMC capability with a peak-detecting algorithm that provides design flexibility by offering the ability to sense a wide range of target geometries.

MTS Systems Corp., Sensors Division's Temposonics linear-position sensors are now available with an improved linearity correction option, which makes them an attractive alternative to the magnetic linear encoders currently used in a number of rolling mills. MTS' magnetostrictive linear-position sensors are much more robust and cost-effective than incremental linear encoders and, with the improved linearity correction option, are able to offer th...

Atmel has announced a low cost touch sensor IC, which brings capacitive user interfaces to price-sensitive consumer and mobile devices. This AT42QT1040 device is available in a 3mm x 3mm VQFN 20 pin package, making it ideal for use in mobile phones and other handheld devices where PCB space is at a premium. In low power mode the AT42QT1040 draws only 31uA from a 1.8 VDC supply, allowing capacitive sensing to be added with minimal impact on batter...

Providing design engineers with a simplified means of detecting the presence of fluid in transparent tubing, TT electronics OPTEK Technology has expanded its family of fluid sensors to include automatic calibration circuitry and a preset trip level feature. Designated the OCB350 Series, the fluid sensor with self-calibration circuitry requires only an optical device and power supply for operation. Like the original OPB350 Series sensors, these d...

Semitec’s latest version of their CH pipe-clip temperature sensor is not only IP67 rated, it can also be supplied with twin NTCs to save the cost and time of fitting separate safety controls to hot or cold water systems.

Vishay has announced a new throttle position sensor in hollow- and D-shaft versions that features Hall effect technology for applications in harsh environments. The Hall effect technology of the new 981 HE gives it the ability to perform in conditions involving high-frequency vibrations up to 20 G and shocks up to 50 G over a temperature range of –45°C to +125°C, providing a strong advantage over other technologies.

Honeywell has introduced its SS361RT and SS461R Bipolar Latch, Hall-Effect Magnetic Position Sensors, giving customers the opportunity to help reduce manufacturing costs. The SS361RT and SS461R sensors' enhanced sensitivity enables the use of less expensive magnets in some applications. The SS361RT sensor's very small footprint takes up less space on the printed circuit board, typically allowing for a reduction in costs. Additionally, the SS361RT...

STMicroelectronics has announced the availability of its open-source capacitive touch sensing software library for its 8-bit STM8 MCU platform. Touch controls improve the look and feel of end products such as MP3 players, televisions, domestic appliances, or printers, compared to mechanical switches or membrane keypads. Using touch controls also lowers bill-of-materials costs while enhancing reliability because they have no moving parts. Typical ...

Carlo Gavazzi has extended its range of devices for automated doors, lifts and escalators by introducing a family of compact radar sensors offering intelligent detection and simple, flexible installation. The RAD01 and RAD02 radar sensors utilise Doppler shift in a K-Band (24,125GHz) signal to detect motion towards or away from the device, and provide SPDT relay output which operates the door. Sensing is bidirectional in the case of the RAD01 or ...