520  Sensor Fundamentals and Types

520.1 Sensors: The Eyes and Ears of IoT

Sensors are the fundamental building blocks of IoT systems, serving as the bridge between the physical and digital worlds. They convert physical phenomena (temperature, pressure, motion, light, etc.) into electrical signals that can be processed by microcontrollers and computers.

This comprehensive guide has been organized into focused chapters for easier learning. Start with the introduction and work through each chapter, or jump directly to topics of interest.

520.2 Learning Path

520.2.1 Getting Started (Beginner)

Chapter Description Time
1. Introduction What are sensors, terminology, and why they matter 15 min
2. Biomimetic Sensing Learn from nature: human skin’s sensor architecture 20 min
3. Sensor Specifications Understanding accuracy, precision, resolution, range 25 min

520.2.2 Core Concepts (Intermediate)

Chapter Description Time
4. Signal Processing Filtering, noise reduction, avoiding pitfalls 20 min
5. Classification Types by measurement, output, and power 15 min
6. Braitenberg Model Sensor-actuator behavior relationships 20 min
7. Infrastructure Sensing Using existing infrastructure as sensors 20 min

520.2.3 Practical Skills (Intermediate)

Chapter Description Time
8. Calibration How to calibrate sensors properly 25 min
9. Reading Datasheets Decode sensor specifications 20 min
10. Common Sensors Popular IoT sensors and MEMS technology 30 min
11. Hands-On Labs Interactive exercises with real sensors 45 min

520.2.4 Application (Intermediate-Advanced)

Chapter Description Time
12. Selection Guide Tools and techniques for choosing sensors 25 min
13. Common Mistakes Top 10 pitfalls and how to avoid them 15 min
14. Advanced Topics Noise, sensor fusion, production systems 30 min
15. Quiz & Exercises Test your knowledge 30 min

520.3 Quick Reference

520.3.1 Key Concepts Summary

Concept Definition Why It Matters
Accuracy How close to true value Determines if measurements are reliable
Precision How repeatable High precision + calibration = good accuracy
Resolution Smallest detectable change Must be finer than required accuracy
Response Time How fast sensor reacts Critical for control loops
Range Min to max measurable Must cover all expected conditions

520.3.2 Common Sensor Quick Reference

Sensor Measures Accuracy Interface Cost
DHT22 Temp, Humidity +/-0.5C Digital $5
BME280 Temp, Hum, Pressure +/-1C I2C/SPI $8
DS18B20 Temperature +/-0.5C 1-Wire $3
PIR Motion Binary Digital $2
HC-SR04 Distance +/-3mm Digital $3
MPU6050 Accel, Gyro +/-3% I2C $5

520.3.3 Prerequisites

Before diving into sensors, ensure familiarity with:

520.5 Start Learning

Ready to begin? Start with the first chapter:

Begin with Sensor Introduction ->

Or jump to a specific topic using the learning path table above.