When harnessing the accuracy of an electronic compass, a number of factors, including magnetic conditions, can greatly impact performance. Here are two examples of these conditions and how to fix them. 1. Static Permanent Magnetism The source of a local permanent magnetic field can be a piece of hard iron (hence the common name), a…
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Whether precision measurements need to be taken in extreme temperatures, areas with vibration, noise, or even underwater, there is a sensor that is built for it. Many applications expose sensors to dust or moisture, but sealing is intended to protect the units from these harmful substances. If you’re wondering which sensor seal rating is needed in your application, here are three questions…
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Precision inertial sensors are so sensitive that even noise waves can be detected as vibration. For many applications, noise is inevitable, but noise interference in the sensor’s readings is unacceptable. This post explains what causes noise disruption and how it can be prevented. What Causes Noise Interference for Sensors Loud machinery within industrial applications can…
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An electronic compass is a combination of a magnetometer, tilt sensors and optional accelerometers and gyros that provide orientation and measurement within a growing number of applications. If you’re wondering if a compass may be the missing piece in your project, here a few application examples. 1. Orientation Data for Unmanned Subsea Vehicles Autonomous underwater…
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A precision sensor is needed to provide vital feedback on the performance of your inertial project and the input power connection is what breathes life into that sensor. To save on costs and maximize efficiency, engineers have been using dual-ended power input instead of single. If you need a sensor with single-ended input power but…
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Whether you’re monitoring an important bridge or the performance of construction machinery, you need to know about every inertial reading the sensor gives you. Unfortunately, not all applications are conducive for gathering sensitive readings. Outside vibration within many industrial environments can interfere with the sensor’s readings, giving you inaccurate or incomprehensible data. If your application includes…
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To design and build a large machine such as a rail car, mobile radar, or construction vehicle, every component needs to fit into place perfectly like a puzzle. When searching for components, you’ll come across multiple sensors ranging in sizes as small as a coin or as large as a dinner plate. Finding the right-sized…
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Tilt sensing validates that infrastructure serves the public with safety and efficiency, but since these readings are so subtle and important, engineers cannot afford to have outside forces throw them off. Vibration can be the enemy for precision tilt sensors and in many cases, it is inevitable. For environments that can make the line on…
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You’ve been assigned to track the stability of a new underground tunnel system that is going to revolutionize the infrastructure of a large city with a quickly growing population. For this project, you’ll need to insert sensors within boreholes to track the sediment activity surrounding the tunnel walls. You need to determine which kind of…
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The demand for renewable energy is only increasing as new technology solutions emerge such as electric cars on the streets and solar panels on rooftops. Clean energy is powering the future and wind is a key source of power for many communities. The Need for Preventative Maintenance Wind turbines have been popping up on land…
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