Sensors for microprocessor-based applications

The microprocessor offers considerable scope for increasing the utility of sensors. Nonlinearity is an example of a considerable problem for continuous electronics which is greatly diminished by the application of software techniques such as the 'look-up table'. The cheapness and compactness of digital integral circuitry allows processing power to be distributed throughout an instrumentation system. It is important to examine the trade-offs associated with each form of distribution. In some cases it is sensible to include a microprocessor within the sensor housing, so that problems such as nonlinearity, parameter drift and cross sensitivity are invisible externally. As a bonus a simple digital interface is then also easily realised.