Section 2 - Sensors

Definition:
A sensor is something that detects or records real world values.
A Sensor measures the amount of something.

KEY POINT: Sensors are used toprovide input in measurement applications

Task 1
Each of the pictures below shows a different type of sensor. Work out what type of sensor each one is and what system its part of.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

A
A
A
A
A

Automatic Door Sensor, being used in An Automatic Door System

Alarm Sensor, being used in
System
Light Sensor, being used in
System
Heat Sensor, being used in
System
DNA Sensor, being used in a FINGER PRINT Recognition System

Task 2

Time
Analogue

Time
Digital

Analogue data is used to Describe something that changes smoothly in value, Its the opposite of digital daTA which
changes in steps.

For example, there are two kinds of clock an analogue clock that shows the time with a second hand and a digital
clock showing time as a number that turns to a new number as the time changes

used to describe something that changes value smoothly. It is the opposite of digital which describes something that
changes in steps.

For example, there are two kinds of clock, an analogue clock that shows the time with a smoothly moving second
hand and a digital clock showing time as a number that flips to a new number as time passes.

In ICT, analogue is used to describe a smoothly changing signal. For example, from a sensor.
Digital data is a descrete or continuous representations of information or works measurement of the amount od
something physical.

Digital Data is simply 0s or 1s

An ADC IS necessary because sensors produce analogue data, computers only understand digital
Task 3

A heating system uses a sensor to decide when the radiators should be turned on and off.
The controls are set to maintain a room temperature of 22 Degrees C
When the system turns on, the water must flow round and be constantly warmed.
Sensors

Output Devices

Pressure

Light

Motor

Heater

Moisture

Infra-Red

Pump

Buzzer

Temperature

Light

1. What Sensor(s) would be needed in this system? Explain their use

Pressure- To make sure the correct amount of water is going into the system.
Moisture- To make sure there are no leaks in the system.
Temperature- To make sure the water is constantly warmed.
Light- So that

2. What output devices would be needed in this system? Explain their use

3. Fill in the PROCESSES (rules) below that this system would need to follow

Example: If the speed is greater than 70 then turn the motor OFF.

Rule 1: If the temperature is more than average then turn the heat off.
Rule 2: If the temperature is less than average then turn the heat on.

Sensors Exam questions

To answer this question, you will need to think about the rules you created in the final lesson task