Sensor
/ˈsɛnsər/
Definitions
A device or system that detects the presence, location, or characteristics of a physical phenomenon.
/ˈsɛnsər/
A device that detects and responds to some type of input from the physical environment.
The smoke detector relies on a smoke sensor to alert residents of a fire.
💡 Simply: Imagine a robot that needs to know if it's about to bump into a wall. A sensor is like its special 'feeling' device that tells it where things are. It's a way for machines or devices to understand the world around them.
👶 For kids: A sensor is like a special nose or eye for a machine! It helps the machine know what's around it, like if something is hot or cold.
More Examples
Modern smartphones have light sensors to adjust screen brightness.
The building's security system uses motion sensors to detect intruders.
How It's Used
"The car's parking assist uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects."
"The skin contains various sensory receptors that detect temperature and pressure."
"A temperature sensor regulates the engine's cooling system."
From Latin *sensor* ('one who feels'), from *sentire* ('to feel, perceive').
The term 'sensor' gained prominence with the advancement of automation and computer technology in the mid-20th century. Prior to this, devices that performed similar functions may have been referred to as 'detectors' or simply described based on their function.
Memory tip
Think of a device that 'senses' something.