Sensor

How it is used

Used all the time in design, wiring and troubleshooting. A sensor detects, senses, measures or triggers; it can be dirty, misaligned or faulty. Common types are proximity, photoelectric, pressure and temperature sensors.

Example sentences

1. The part-present sensor isn't switching, so the robot is waiting for a signal that never comes.

2. Clean the sensor lens before you adjust anything; oil mist often causes false signals.

Common collocations

• sensor signal
• sensor fault
• the sensor detects
• adjust the sensor
• part-present sensor

Related terms

• actuatorA component that turns energy, such as electricity, compressed air or hydraulic oil, into movement. Motors and pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders are typical actuators.
• proximity sensorA sensor that detects an object near it without touching it. Inductive types detect metal; capacitive types also detect plastic, wood or liquids.
• photoelectric sensorA sensor that uses a beam of light, usually infrared or red, to detect when an object is present, absent or passing. Common types are through-beam, retro-reflective and diffuse.
• encoderA sensor mounted on a motor or shaft that measures rotation and sends position and speed information to the drive or controller.
• I/OShort for inputs and outputs: the signals a controller receives from sensors and buttons, and the signals it sends to valves, motors, lamps and other devices.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

• sensor · Electrical & Electronics Engineering
• sensor · Automotive
• sensor · Photography

More terms: Sensors, Motors and Actuators

• servo motor
• limit switch
• pneumatic cylinder
• stepper motor
• solenoid valve
• variable frequency drive