What types of temperature sensors are there?

Release Date:

2022-08-02

Author:

Temperature sensors can be classified into two major categories—contact and non-contact—based on their measurement method, and into thermistors and thermocouples based on the sensor materials and electronic component characteristics.

A temperature sensor is a device that detects temperature and converts it into a usable output signal. It constitutes the core component of temperature-measuring instruments.

The sensing element of a contact-type temperature sensor maintains good thermal contact with the object being measured and is commonly referred to as a thermometer. The thermometer achieves thermal equilibrium through conduction or convection, allowing its reading to directly indicate the temperature of the measured object. Such instruments generally offer high measurement accuracy. Within a specified temperature range, thermometers can also be used to measure the internal temperature distribution of an object.

The sensing element of a non-contact temperature sensor does not come into direct contact with the object being measured; such instruments are therefore referred to as non-contact thermometers. They can be used to measure the surface temperature of moving objects, small targets, and objects with low thermal capacity or rapid temperature changes (transient conditions), and they are also suitable for determining the temperature distribution within a temperature field.

Huizhou Jin Yuan Xiang Electronic Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise that manufactures temperature and humidity sensors, thermistors, and temperature probes. Customized quotations with product images are welcome. Free samples are available.

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