Sensors provide an output signal in response to a physical, chemical, or biological measure and typically require an electrical input to operate them; therefore, they tend to be characterized in specifications or datasheets in much the same way as electronic devices are characterized. To truly understand sensors, and how sensors that measure the same measure and differ, it is necessary to understand sensor performance characteristics. Unfortunately, there is no standard definition for many of these characteristics and different parts of the sensor community have different names for these characteristics, depending on the sensing domain. This confusion is further compounded by manufacturers publishing an abundance of performance characteristics, thus making it difficult for the potential user to identify those which are relevant to their application, and how they should be applied. This article describes these characteristics, using their most common names and reference alternative names, where relevant.
06/2013
Apress Open
