Analog sensor vs Digital sensor | Difference between Analog sensor and Digital sensor

This page compares Analog sensor vs Digital sensor and mentions difference between Analog sensor and Digital sensor.

Analog sensor

Analog Signal Processing

• It produces continuous output signal or voltage which is proportional to quantity to be measured.
• It produces analog output.
• Quantities such as temperature, speed, displacement, pressure, strain etc. are analog quantities as they are continuous in nature.
• Example: Temperature of liquid can be measured using thermometer or thermocouple which continuously responds to changes in temperature as liquid is heated up or cooled down.

Digital sensor

Digital Signal Processing

• It produces discrete digital output signal or voltage which is digital representation of quantity to be measured.
• It produces binary output in the form of ones (1s) and zeros (0s).
• Digital sensors overcome limitations of analog sensors counterpart.
• They are used in various applications such as waste water, water and other industrial processes.
• Digital sensor consists of sensor itself, cable and a transmitter.
• Examples: Measurements such as pH level, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, ammonium, nitrate etc. are conducted using digital sensors.
• Refer analog signal processing vs digital signal processing >> for more information.

➤The major difference between analog sensor and digital sensor is based on their respective output. As mentioned above, analog sensor produces analog output where as digital sensor produces digital output.



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