Make a sensor at home

Hi,

Please i am asking if there is a way that a sensor could be made at home that is DIY sensor or can they be only manufactured industrially

billpenner over 12 years ago

It depends on the type sensor. Probably most sensors would be better purchased.However for education and self satisfaction some can be built but precision, calibration, cost,etc.would be factors. do you have a specific sensor in mind?
Bill
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DAB over 12 years ago

Hi Yacham,

If you can provide us with some information on what kinds of information you want to sense, then we could possibly provide you with ideas on how you might make a sensor for those events.

You need to help us help you.

DAB
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davewr over 12 years ago

There are all sorts of projects that involve wire coils and a bit of circuitry. For example -- a fluxgate magnetometer:
http://motivationtolearn.org/wordpress/?p=1347

Yeah -- I know it's a kids site -- but I bet it works.

Circuit Cellar had a Proton Magnetometer design -- I have the Issue -- May 20xx something or other. Very sensitive and suitable for mineral exploration work even.

There are lots of projects with reed switches (magnetic) and wire coils for proximity -- and limit switches.

Float switches and circuits for tank levels, overflow and sump pump.

The manufacturing process is about making a consistent product.

Most work today for embedded engineers is in commercial use/programming of the refined designs of these products.

For this one -- the search engines are your friend.
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Former Member over 12 years ago in reply to davewr

i was thinking of a DIY distance or temprature sensor. I want to do it for the sake of self satisfaction .
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davewr over 12 years ago in reply to Former Member

What do you mean by DIY -- are you prepared to mine and refine and cut your own crystals for example?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piezoelectric_sensor

Find a crystal -- hook up some leads -- freezing water, boiling water -- calibrate them yourself, correct for altitude though.
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jaytech101 over 12 years ago in reply to davewr

I would love to create my own sensors too I would love to see be done.
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Former Member over 11 years ago in reply to jaytech101

Maybe I'm a bit late... but.. we've created a site describing how to create your own wireless sensors and actuators.

You'll find build instructions here: http://www.mysensors.org

All libraries used is open source.
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