The Importance of Sensor Accessories

Sensor accessories help with the operation, mounting and protection of sensors. Whether you require power supply accessories to ensure consistent and stable power for your sensors or industrial sensor mounts for simple and secure mounting, these accessories are essential for efficient sensor operations.

NIBIB-funded researchers are developing smart textiles that carry sensors to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism in hospital patients.

Power supply

In many cases, sensors will require power to operate and function properly. Sensor accessories like power supplies enable easy connection and supply of the necessary amount of current to a sensor or other electrically powered device. Power supplies may come in a range of lengths and types to ensure that they meet the needs of various applications.

In addition to supplying power to sensors, sensor accessories may also help them communicate with other devices or systems. They can include mounts, cables and adapters, among other items. They are used in a variety of processing and automated environments, such as manufacturing plants and laboratories.

For example, a thermowell is a pressure-tight sheath that allows a Microwave Sensor Supplier temperature-sensitive instrument to detect process temperatures without opening up a vessel or pipe. Sensor accessories such as thermowells can be very important in hazardous environment applications to avoid the risk of explosions or other hazards.

In addition, a power failure sensor can help ensure that a backup system is in place to keep production running during power outages. These sensors can alert users to when a power source is lost, and then notify them when it has returned. This can provide vital information about plant safety and prevent costly downtime caused by unexpected power outages. Power failure sensors are often used in conjunction with generators, UPS systems and other emergency power sources.

Mounting

Sensor accessories that assist in the mounting of sensors are a must for optimal function and safety. These items ensure that the sensor is in a position where it can collect accurate data or be activated to perform the desired action, such as triggering lights after motion detection. They also prevent unintentional interference or a reduction in sensing distances due to environmental factors such as vibrations, temperature or electromagnetic fields.

For example, the mounting method used for collecting vibration measurements has a significant impact on the quality of the time waveform. Hence, the correct mounting of vibration sensors is crucial during route-based maintenance to achieve optimum diagnostic and preventive functions. There are four main methods to mount vibration sensors: stud mounted, adhesive mounted, magnetically mounted and probe tip or stinger mounted. The sensor mounting method should be carefully compared with the corresponding performance specifications, particularly for high frequency response.

For example, a motion sensor with a solid aluminium wall mount sits harmoniously alongside dark anthracite doors, windows or other fittings. The mount has a rounded front to blend in with the environment and can be positioned vertically or horizontally. The mount also has space inside for the cable to be dressed and terminated into the back of the sensor. This allows for a clean installation without the need to drill holes into the ceiling.

Switching

Sensor accessories enable users to connect and use their sensors in different ways. The most important accessory for a sensor is its power supply, which helps the device operate effectively and efficiently. Other sensor accessories include mounting options to provide simple installation and support the sensor in a specific environment. Some sensor accessories are designed to extend a system’s operation or allow for new interface technologies to be used with older sensors.

Sensor switches with proximity sensing activate when a hand, finger or head is within range of the device and can be set to detect, sense or activate when a person is within 5 to 8 meters (about 25-feet) of the switch. They can be programmed for a variety of actions and will turn off after 10-seconds of no movement. They are often used for closet lighting, bathroom lights and other areas where light activation is desired based on motion.

Proximity sensors are ideal for people with limited upper body mobility due to spinal cord injury, ALS or muscular dystrophy. They require only a feather light touch to activate and can be used with a wide array of devices such as phones, computers, tablets and voice-activated applications.

WireGuard provides ideal resiliency to keep cables in place and prevent coiling, kinking or knotting. It stretches over any cable and is easy to install. It also protects against abrasion and wear and tear while allowing for easy cleaning and disinfection.

Industrial

Industrial sensors are used to process and detect a vast array of changes on an industrial manufacturing site. Sensors measure different positions, heights, appearances, lengths, and distances, as well as provide information on the status of various systems. They can be categorized into six product segments: pressure, temperature, proximity, image, flow, and level.

A vibration sensor monitors the condition of industrial motors, helping reduce unscheduled downtime and planning for preventative maintenance. The sensor sends data to a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) for analysis, giving managers insight into trending of failure points and frequency.

TE Connectivity provides an array of vibration sensor accessories to help with the installation and use of this critical piece of equipment. Epoxy kits are available for mounting accelerometers and adhesive mounting bases to machine structures, and extension poles allow vibration technicians to stay on the ground while still collecting data from a machine.

Gas sensors are used in chemical industries to identify the presence of combustible and dangerous gases. Sensor Accessories They are also used in vehicles, manufacturing, and household appliances for safety.

Optical sensors include general optical measuring instruments, laser interferometers, encoders, and fiber optics. They are commonly used in telecommunications, elevators, security systems, and healthcare facilities. They also find use in industrial automation applications that require movement detection, such as linear position sensors for pulleys and winches.