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58 SMT007 MAGAZINE I OCTOBER 2025 • Nature of the stimulus: Whether the sensor needs to handle analog or digital signals • Repetitiveness: How frequently the sens- ing event occurs and whether the sensor can handle continuous or repeated use • Sensing range: The minimum and maximum values the sensor can accurately detect • Sensing distance: The physical distance between the sensor and the object or stimulus • Measurement region: The spatial area or volume within which the sensor must operate effectively • Bandwidth/frequency: The frequency char- acteristics of the stimulus and the required sensing response time • Data rate limitations: The maximum data rate that the acquisition or sensing system can handle • Supply voltage range: The operating voltage range supported by the sensor • Accuracy and precision requirements: The level of detail and reliability needed in the measurements Based on the selection criteria, different types of sensors may be more suitable for the same stimulus depending on the specific application requirements. Advantages and Significance of Sensors Data Collection Sensors play a vital role in collecting data from environments that are otherwise inaccessible to humans. Whether it's the core of a nuclear reactor, the heart of a plasma furnace, or Lagrange points in space for solar observation, sensors enable us to gather critical information under extreme condi- tions. They are also essential in deep space mis- sions, unmanned explorations, and hazardous industrial zones, where human presence is either risky or impossible. These specialized sensors are designed to withstand harsh environments— extreme temperatures, radiation, pressure, or vac- uum—and continue to deliver reliable data. This data not only drives innovation but also expands our understanding of the universe and the systems around us, enabling smarter decisions, safer opera- tions, and scientific breakthroughs. S e n s o r C l a s s i f i c at i o n SR No # Type of Sensor Explanation 1 Digital The output of this sensor is digital in nature. It responds when the input stimulus crosses certain threshold values, making it suitable for discrete detection appli- cations. Since the output is already digital, no analog front-end (FE) circuitry is required to interface with this sensor. 2 Analog The output of these sensors is analog in nature, meaning it varies continuously in proportion to the input stimulus. To process this type of signal, an analog front- end (FE) is required to condition and convert the signal for further use, such as digitization or control applications. 3 Contact This sensor operates in direct contact with the object to be sensed. It is particu- larly useful for applications where the stimulating entity must physically touch the sensor to trigger a response. 4 Non-contact These sensors are ideal for applications where distance-based sensing is re- quired. They typically produce an analog output, which varies in proportion to the distance of the object being sensed. This allows for more precise measurement but also requires an analog front-end (FE) for signal conditioning and processing. 5 Latching These sensors generate latching outputs, meaning once triggered, the output remains in the active state until it is manually or programmatically reset. This behavior is useful in applications where a persistent signal is needed after detec- tion, regardless of whether the stimulus is still present. 6 Non-latching These sensors produce non-latching outputs, meaning they automatically reset after the stimulus is removed. No manual or external reset is required, making them suitable for continuous or repetitive sensing applications.