Poll: How Can Sensors Be Improved?

I voted Other. Greatest improvement I can wish for is Ease of Use.  

The most fabulous sensor, the most accurate, the most reliable, doesn't do me any good if I cant figure out how to use it. 

What a question, that's like asking "How can the internet be improved?"

• Some sensors that are too big need to be smaller
• Some sensors that are to tiny and fragile need to get bigger and more robust
• Some sensors that draw too much power should draw less
• Some sensors that have a small output need to produce more output
• Some sensors need to detect a smaller quantity/unit volume
• Some sensors need to detect larger items without false detections of tiny objects
• Some sensors cost way too much
• Some sensors have too complicated interfaces
• Some sensors have too complicated software algorithms
• Some sensors fail in certain environments
• Some sensors fail for no reason
• I could go on and on.........

Scott

I agree with dougw about cost.  I'd play with more stuff if it was more affordable.

I voted for Supply voltage keeping one thing in mind that sooner or later we will move towards renewable sources for power generation. So, it's a great idea if we have sensors which can run longer on such sources like solar systems i.e self sustainable systems.

Low cost.

Standard Supply voltage

Standard communication interface

Flexibility

  I agree with  the majority on this one.

    Improving and maximizing the accuracy of any sensor, will elevate it's efficiency, increase the range of sensitivity, and  produce a more truthful and factual data output. Altogether improving the functionality and reliability of not only the data collected, but improves the very process of collection.

    Keeping sensors clean and properly calibrated(when applicable), will ensure the highest level of accuracy possible.

• Increasing energy efficiency
• upgrading facility efficiency
• Decreasing utilization costs while improving productivity
• Take advantage of tracking sensors

Sometimes the raw data out from a sensor might require a lot of complex post-processing. 'Smart' sensors that can utilise special DSP techniques on the chip will make the downstream design stage much easier - especially for hobbyists who perhaps never get a full insight into these cutting edge algorithms. Therefore, more smart sensors for me please.

Lower cost is always desirable.

How to characterize better performance in the list?

For example better localization sensors are needed because GPS isn't accurate enough and it doesn't work indoors.

Or I need low cost high bandwidth waterproof pressure sensors.