Sensor
A
device that detects some aspect of vehicle performance and
converts it into an electrical signal that is fed to the control
computer for use in controlling factors such as engine fueling
and ignition timing. Sensors are of two main types.
Active sensors produce electricity that represents the variable
that they are detecting. They are often electromagnetic or,
as in the case of zirconia oxygen sensors, electrochemical.
Passive sensors receive a supply of electricity and process
it so that the control unit detects changes. In the case of
the negative temperature coefficient sensor used to detect
coolant temperature, the changes in resistance produce a varying
sensor voltage that represents coolant temperature.
Typical examples of sensors are air flow, exhaust gas oxygen,
engine speed, crank position, throttle position, and engine
coolant temperature.
See also actuator.
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