Lesson 1: Digital vs. Analog Signals

Study Notes

Digital Signal vs. Analog Signal

Digital signals are discrete and binary, typically represented as 0 or 1.
Less susceptible to noise, allowing for better signal quality maintenance.
Commonly used in devices requiring clear on/off signals like computers and digital sensors.
Represent data in distinct steps, providing precise control.
Examples include light switches and digital clocks.
Analog signals are continuous and can take any value within a defined range.
More vulnerable to noise and interference, risking signal distortion.
Employed in devices that measure continuously varying signals such as microphones and temperature sensors.
Capable of conveying detailed and subtle changes in the signal.
Examples include volume knobs on radios and light dimmer switches.

Analog Sensors: Voltage-Output Sensors

Sensors detect, measure, and react to specific electrical or optical signals.
They perform input functions, while actuators carry out output functions to control external devices.
Examples of sensors include gas sensors, thermistors, and IR sensors.
Voltage-output sensors convert physical measurements (temperature, light, gas concentration) into corresponding voltage signals.
Voltage range typically spans from -5 Volts to 10 Volts.

Types of Voltage-Output Sensors

Accelerometer: Measures acceleration forces (gravity, motion, vibration).
Gyroscope Sensor: Measures the rate of rotation or angular velocity.
Sound Sensor: Detects sound waves (pressure waves in air).
Gas Sensor: Measures presence or concentration of specific gases in the air.

Circuit Diagram for Gas Sensor

Pin 1: Analog out (A0)
Pin 2: Negative (-)
Pin 3: Ground (GND)
Pin 4: Positive supply (VCC/5V)

Analog Sensors: Temperature Sensor

Temperature sensors measure and convert environmental temperature data into electronic signals.

Types of Temperature Sensors

TMP36: Used for indoor and outdoor temperature measurement.
DS18B20: Suitable for projects needing multiple sensor integrations.
NTC Thermistor: Used for measuring human body temperature.
DHT11/DHT22: Measures temperature and humidity.
PT100: Monitors temperature in industrial machines to prevent overheating.
Thermocouples: Used to measure extreme temperatures.

LM35 (Linear Monolithic)

A precision integrated-circuit temperature device with varying output voltage based on surrounding temperature.
Operates within -55°C to 150°C.
Compatible with microcontrollers featuring ADC functionality, such as Arduino.

Applications of LM35

Measures temperature in specific environments.
Provides thermal shutdown for circuits/components.
Monitors battery temperature.
Applied in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).

Summary Features of LM35

Operates within -55°C to 150°C temperature range.
Requires a voltage source between +4V and +30V.
Outputs a voltage of 10.0mV per degree Celsius.

Pins of LM35

Pin 1: Positive supply (VCC/5V)
Pin 2: Analog output (A0)
Pin 3: Ground (GND)

Converting ADC Units to Degree Celsius

ADC units with decimal places are termed as floats, suitable for precise data storage.
1 ADC unit corresponds to approximately 1.1mV (calculated from 1.1V/1024 ADC units).
10.0mV equates to 1 degree Celsius.

Data Types

Variable: Data that can change.
Constant: Unchanging data.
Int: Whole numbers.
Float: Decimal numbers.
String: Two or more characters enclosed in double quotes.
Char: A single character enclosed in single quotes.
Bool: Represents true or false values.

Description

This quiz covers the fundamental differences between digital signals and analog signals. Learn about their characteristics, advantages, and examples of each type. Perfect for understanding the basics of signal processing in electronics.