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Chapter 3 IT As Level

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26 views2 pages

Chapter 3 IT As Level

Uploaded by

Vex Davies Banning
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Chapter 3

Monitoring and Control


Sensors
Sensor: A device that record data about the surrounding physical environment.

Analogue: A smooth stream of data that we process on a daily basis.

Microprocessor: An integrated circuit used in monitoring and control technologies.

Actuator: A type of motor that controls a mechanism or system.

Sensors can automatically enter data into a computer system, making them extremely useful for
automation, and in environments that could be harmful to humans. A sensor constantly monitors
the surrounding environment, and the data it records will be in analogue form. An analogue to
digital converter must be used to convert the data into digital form, which is then sent to a
microprocessor. If the data is in an acceptable range, the microprocessor will signal the actuator to
trigger an action that needs to be taken.

Motion Sensors
Motion sensors detect movement. This can either be passive or active; an active sensor is usually an
infrared sensor, and detects any changes in energy in the surrounding environment. An active sensor
is usually a microwave sensor, which constantly emits microwaves and detects changes in the
reflection of the waves, much like a bat. However, motion sensors are not error proof, and
sometimes may trigger a false alarm or not trigger at all when there is actual movement. These
sensors are usually used in CCTV systems, and automatic doors and lights.

Pressure Sensors
A pressure sensor measures pressure, usually of a liquid or a gas. Most pressure sensors use piezo
resistance, where a specific level of pressure is linked to a specific level of charge. They are
frequently used in the manufacturing of vehicles and chemicals, and also in touch screens.

Moisture and Humidity Sensors


Humidity sensors monitor the humidity in the air. They use two electrical conductors with a non-
conductive film separating them. Moisture collects on the film and changes the level of voltage
between the two conductors, which is then interpreted as a measurement of humidity. They are
used in wine cellars, meteorological stations and in agriculture.

Temperature Sensors
They monitor and measure the temperature of an environment by measuring how much heat is
present. They are found in many home appliances.
Light Sensors
There are many different types, but the most common type uses photoresistors. These resistors will
change its resistance depending on the light shining on it. They are used in digital cameras, scanners
and smartphones.

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