In our assortment you will find a large number of different sensors for Arduinos, Raspberrys and ESPs. Our product range includes simple sensors like the KY sensor modules as well as newer GY variants with digital interface. We also offer some KY sensors with an adjustable switching contact. In our low-cost sensor kits you will also find a useful set of sensors, ideal for learning or experimenting.

A sensor is a component or a group of components for the detection of physical states or quantities. Sensors are capable of detecting these states and outputting them as a signal, which is why they are also called transducers. Sensors are usually differentiated according to their intended use (measurand) and the functional principle (measuring principle). Typical measured variables are, for example, temperature or distance which, together with the different measuring principles such as optoelectronic or with the aid of electrical resistance, can then be referred to as resistive temperature sensors (resistance thermometers), optical temperature sensors (IR, thermal image) or optical distance meters (ToF sensor, VL53L0X).

Sensors have become indispensable for many applications. For example, they perform central tasks in the field of control, regulation and automation technology. Sensors become necessary as soon as a device, a machine or even a circuit requires a specific impulse to perform an action.

Since the term sensor is quite broad, there is an almost endless selection of different sensors. A distinction is made, for example, between active and passive sensors or according to the measuring or operating principle such as: mechanical, optical, acoustic, magnetic, capacitive and many more.

Temperature sensors are good examples, because the temperature can be measured by very many measuring principles. Simple variants are the classic bimetal switch, thermistors or thermocouples. However, there are also complex variants such as pyroelectric or fiber-optic temperature sensors. The DS18B20 is a digital semiconductor temperature sensor, which can also be found in solid-state circuits such as microprocessors, where measurement is usually performed resistively with the aid of a transistor.

Another example is our motion detector, which is an (optical) infrared sensor that uses the pyroelectric effect to convert temperature changes into electrical signals and output them.

In order to find an ideally suited sensor for one's project, it is necessary to understand the internal functioning of the sensor and to carefully check whether the underlying measurement principle is suitable for the intended use. In practice, however, this path is often reserved for engineers or technicians. In most cases, however, this is not necessary at all and the sensor can be selected on the basis of the specified measured variable and the desired signal output as the most convenient solution.