Security sensors are an ever-expanding field in science and technology as they offer enhanced protection to people and machinery within working environments. These sophisticated devices are installed to detect and monitor potential hazards, such as fire outbreaks, gas leaks, unauthorized access, and more. In this blog post, we look at how security sensors work in a range of applications.

What is a Security Sensor?

A security sensor is an electronic device designed to alert a security system when something specific is detected, such as gas, motion, or temperature changes. These sensors are the first line of defence against hazards and enable those within the environment to act quickly to prevent further risks. Thanks to their outstanding capabilities, security sensors are widely used in home and workplace security, gas analysis, fire suppression, and manufacturing processes.

How do Specific Security Sensors Work?

As mentioned above, security sensors are available for a range of applications, including gas analysis, fire detection, and non-contact measurements. We provide an overview of how sensors work in the following situations.

Gas Analysis

Gas sensors are used to detect the presence of gases in the air in many medical and life science fields. Different types of gas sensors are available, including fiber optic, infrared IR), optical, and gas sensor arrays. However, IR gas detection systems are favorable due to their high accuracy and sensitivity.

Gas sensors are used to monitor air quality, and the presence and concentration of gases, vapors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may pose risks to workers and the environment. These are commonly used in environmental monitoring applications and in the food, oil and gas, and transportation industries.

Fire Detection

Gas sensors can also be used for early fire detection by detecting combustible gases or flames. Additionally, smoke detectors and heat detectors are other types of sensors used for fire detection. The difference between these two options is that smoke detectors use photoelectric or ionization technology to detect smoke particles in the air, while heat detectors detect changes in temperature.

Non-Contact Temperature Measurement

Infrared sensors are used for non-contact temperature measurement in multiple industries, such as food processing, oil and gas, and manufacturing. These sensors detect infrared radiation emitted by objects and convert it into an electrical signal, which is then used to calculate the temperature of the object. These accurate temperature measurements take place without physical contact, therefore preserving the integrity of the object being measured.

Dexter Research Center and Sensor Solutions

At Dexter Research Center, we take pride in being the leading company for infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we offer superior sensitivity, unmatched signal-to-noise ratios, and reliable form factors built to MIL-Spec standards. Our Temperature Sensing Module, delivering medical-grade accuracy, is the go-to solution for non-contact temperature sensing.

With over 30 core thermopile products, surpassing all global competitors combined, each detector undergoes rigorous 100% testing for industry-leading quality. Providing our customers with a wide selection of over 1,000 thermopile configurations, we are dedicated to supporting them worldwide. We are committed to continual improvement, ensuring we meet our customers’ mission-critical sensing needs for decades to come with competitive strategies in marketing and pricing.

Fire suppression equipment is critical for ensuring safety in multiple industries, especially environmental monitoring, gas analysis, and non-contact temperature measurements. Detectors are an integral part of fire suppression systems as they enable the early detection of fires and trigger a specific response to reduce potential risks. In this blog post, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing detectors for fire suppression equipment to ensure optimal fire protection.

Fire suppression equipment describes a collection of solutions designed to put out a fire. This includes fire detectors, sensors, and extinguishing systems. Fire detectors come in different types, each designed to detect specific fire hazards. The four main types of fire detectors are flame, heat, smoke, and thermopile. Below we provide a brief overview.

Understanding Fire Suppression Equipment

Flame detectors

Flame detectors detect the radiation emitted by flames and can be infrared, ultraviolet, or a combination of both. They are commonly used in high-risk areas such as industrial facilities and fuel-loading areas.

Heat detectors

They are designed to detect an increase in temperature and are less prone to false alarms than smoke detectors. They are particularly useful in environments where smoldering fires are more likely to occur, such as storage areas or boiler rooms.

Smoke detectors

Available in two main types: ionization and photoelectric detectors. Ionization detectors are effective at detecting fast, flaming fires, while photoelectric detectors are better at detecting smoldering fires. Combining both types in dual-sensor alarms provides comprehensive fire detection capabilities.

What are Thermopile Detectors?

Thermopile detectors are passive radiation-sensing voltage-generating devices. They comprise several thermocouples arranged in a series that enables temperature measurement at a distance. The temperature is measured based on an object’s infrared energy and is conducted in a non-contact method.

Because of their multiple advantages, thermopile detectors are becoming an increasingly popular choice for use in fire suppression equipment. This includes reduced noise signal due to non-contact, fast response times, and reliable performance at extreme temperatures and in harsh environments.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Detectors

A wide range of detectors are available for fire suppression equipment, and several factors should be considered when selecting the most appropriate one for your application.

Environment and Application

Different settings, such as residential or commercial, may require specific types of detectors. Hazardous or sensitive areas, such as laboratories or healthcare facilities, may have unique fire detection requirements. In smaller areas, thermopile detectors such as Dexter’s ST60 is a highly suitable option.

Fire Detection Requirements

Response time and sensitivity levels are crucial factors. Consider the speed at which the detectors can detect fires and their sensitivity to different fire types to enhance safety levels. For superior fire detection and high sensitivity, the 1M thermopile is a solid choice.

Compatibility with Fire Suppression Systems

Ensure that the detectors can integrate seamlessly with the existing fire suppression equipment. Consider compatibility with communication protocols to enable efficient information exchange. This information should be clarified with the manufacturer you are considering working with.

Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center is a leading provider of detectors and sensors for fire suppression and detection, gas analysis, and temperature measurement. Or detectors are widely recognized for their sensitivity, accuracy, and durability, making them a trusted choice for various applications.

We manufacture a range of silicon-based and thin-film thermopile detectors that operate remotely and non-contact. Our detectors offer accurate temperature measurements without disturbing the subject, making them ideal for various industrial processes, medical procedures, and biomedical cultures.

The models used in fire suppression equipment include the 1M, 2M, and ST60 thermopiles, all of which come with high sensitivity and good signal-to-noise ratios.

Gas analysis plays a crucial role in various scientific fields, from environmental monitoring to industrial processes, to ensure the health and safety of personnel and their working space. However, to accurately measure and analyze gases, reliable detectors are essential. One detector commonly used in gas analysis is the thermopile detector, which converts thermal energy into electrical energy. This blog post will explore how thermopile detectors factor into gas analysis and their significance in this field.

Thermopile Detectors

Thermpoile detectors are commonly used for non-contact measurement applications such as gas analysis. They comprise multiple thermocouples arranged in series and convert radiation energy into electrical energy based on the principle of non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) gas measurement.1 When infrared radiation passes through a gas sample, certain wavelengths are absorbed by the gas molecules. The amount of absorbed radiation is directly proportional to the concentration of the gas. Thermopile detectors can measure the temperature difference caused by the absorbed radiation, converting it into an electrical signal for gas concentration analysis.

Beyond this short introduction, we will not discuss what thermopile detectors are. However, if you would like a refresher, why not read some of our previous blog posts?

How Thermopile Detectors are Used in Gas Analysis

Thermopile detectors find widespread use in various gas analysis applications because of their many advantages. They are employed in both research and industrial settings to measure and analyze different types of gases, including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and trace gases.

One of the first advantages of thermopile detectors is they are designed so that only the sample cell and its connected components are exposed to the gas stream being analyzed. In other sensors, the sensor is directly exposed to the gas, resulting in failure or inaccurate measurements. Aside from this crucial advantage, they are also corrosion-resistant, long-lasting, and reliable detectors that will not be damaged by flammable or toxic gases. These features make thermopile detectors highly suitable for precise and accurate gas measurement and analysis.

Examples of gas analysis applications utilizing thermopile detectors include evolved gas analysis in chemical reactions, monitoring gas concentrations in industrial processes, and trace gas analysis in environmental studies. Compared to other gas analysis techniques, thermopile detectors offer accuracy, high sensitivity, and reliability.

Thermopile Detectors with Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center has been a leading provider of infrared thermopile detectors since its establishment in 1977. We offer the largest selection of thermopiles, including high-quality Bismuth-Antimony thin-film and silicon-based radiation-sensing thermopile detectors for a wide range of sensing applications.

Our expertise lies in customizing detectors to meet precise specifications, resulting in superior detector and system performance. So, if you’re looking for thermopile detectors for gas analysis applications, look no further. We manufacture three series of gas analysis thermopile detectors: 2M, 2M Quad, and ST60, each with high sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratios, and reliability.

Contact Dexter Research Center to learn more about our thermopile detectors and how they can benefit your gas analysis applications.

References

https://www.azosensors.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=591

Accurate temperature measurement is vital in various industries and scenarios where traditional contact-based methods may not be practical or suitable. While traditional contact-based methods have long been used for temperature measurements, there are situations where they may not be suitable or practical. In such cases, non-contact temperature measurement emerges as an invaluable solution, offering safe and efficient temperature measuring without compromising the integrity of an object. In this blog post, we will explore the technology behind non-contact temperature measurement and its key applications.

What is Non-Contact Temperature Measurement?

Non-contact temperature measurement is a method that enables an object’s temperature to be measured without physical contact between the sensor and the object. This method relies on the detection and analysis of the infrared radiation emitted by the object. Infrared radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that cannot be seen with the human eye but can be detected and analyzed by specialized temperature sensors.

Infrared radiation and optical analysis are the key components of non-contact temperature measurement. All objects above absolute zero temperature emit infrared radiations, and the intensity and spectrum of these radiations are directly related to the object’s temperature. Non-contact temperature measurement devices, such as infrared thermometers, thermal imagers, and fiber optic sensors, utilize optical analysis techniques to capture and interpret the emitted infrared radiation and provide accurate temperature readings.

Applications of Non-Contact Temperature Measurement

Non-contact temperature measurement is used widely across a range of industries because of the many advantages it provides. Let’s look at some of the key applications where non-contact temperature measurements are indispensable:

Building automation

Building automation systems can significantly benefit from non-contact temperature measurement. They are used to monitor HVAC systems, detect overheating, and ensure optimal thermal comfort. It allows for efficient temperature control and energy management in commercial buildings, reducing energy costs and improving occupant comfort.

Energy management

In the field of energy management, non-contact temperature measurement helps identify energy inefficiencies and optimize energy consumption. By monitoring the temperature of equipment, such as boilers, furnaces, and heat exchangers, potential energy losses can be detected and resolved early, leading to energy-saving measures.

Fire detection

Non-contact temperature measurement is crucial in fire detection systems. By monitoring temperature changes and anomalies, early fire detection can be achieved, enabling quick action and minimizing potential damage.

Healthcare and medical settings

Non-contact temperature measurement devices, particularly infrared thermometers, have become essential tools in healthcare facilities. They offer a non-invasive and hygienic way to measure human body temperature for mass screening, infection control, and patient monitoring.

Industrial process control

Non-contact temperature measurement is used in various industrial processes, such as heat treatment, drying, and curing applications. It enables engineers to precisely monitor objects in motion, such as conveyor belts or rotating machinery, without disrupting their movement. This ensures optimal process conditions and product quality.

Manufacturing

In metalworking, glass manufacturing, and plastics processing industries, precise temperature control is crucial for maintaining product quality and optimizing process efficiency. Non-contact temperature measurement enables real-time monitoring and control of temperature during production, ensuring optimal conditions.

Non-Contact Temperature Measurements with Dexter

From manufacturing processes to healthcare settings and preventive maintenance, accurate and fast temperature measurements are essential for quality control, safety, and efficiency.

Dexter Research Center is a leading provider of infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions. Our devices offer better signal-to-noise ratios and superior sensitivity, and our core range includes over 30 thermopile thin-film and silicon-based products. Whatever your industry, if you’re in need of a non-contact temperature sensor, Dexter will have a solution for you.

Contact us today to learn more about the non-contact temperature measurements Dexter offers.

As a relatively new piece of technology, the first laser was built in 1960, and they have since been developed into various configurations, shapes and sizes. Lasers emit precisely-controlled directed beams of light and are used in a range of industries, including astronomy, engineering, and healthcare, in applications that require a concentrated beam of light in a particular time, space or wavelength.

Advancements in science and technology have enabled researchers to measure the amount of energy per unit delivered by a laser beam, also known as laser power, and is usually measured in watts (W). Measuring laser power has two primary uses: to ensure the laser is utilizing the correct power level and, over time, to monitor the laser’s performance. Both reasons for measuring laser power ensure lasers are meeting industry requirements and processes can run smoothly. There are several methods for laser power measurement, including beam profilers, photodiodes and thermopile detectors, all of which we will discuss in more detail in this blog post.

How is Laser Power Measured?

The solutions you choose for measuring laser power must be accurate and reliable; otherwise, the data obtained may have a negative impact on your equipment maintenance and operations. In this section, we look at the different solutions and their key features and advantages.

Beam Profilers

A laser beam profiler is designed to measure the spatial distribution of the laser beam in relation to the beam propagation path. This method measures, displays and records the entire profile of a laser beam instead of the diameter alone, offering many benefits to its user.

Beam profilers have several uses. Not only are they used to measure laser intensity, but they are also used to accurately align laser beams, monitor performance over periods of time and to maintain a particular beam shape. These instruments are critical industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and scientific research.

Photodiodes

Photodiodes are another popular measuring tool. They utilize semiconductor devices that measure a current emitted by the laser light, which is conducted by converting light into an electrical signal. Photodiodes are highly sensitive and offer quick measurements, with a response time of micro or milliseconds.

The other benefits of using photodiodes for measuring laser power are that their low noise and high sensitivity allow them to take low power measurements in low light levels. They can also be used to characterize the intensity profile of a laser beam.

Thermopile sensors

A thermopile detector is one of the traditional methods of measuring laser power. It converts heat from the laser beam into an electric signal, which passes through the detector. The key advantage of a thermopile detector is that it can measure laser power over a variety of wavelengths. Still, other benefits include high sensitivity, quick response time and ease of use.

Where Can I Buy Laser Power Measurement Solutions?

If you’re looking for a superior solution for laser power measurement, Dexter Research Center are sure to have the answer for you. We develop a wide range of infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions, including industry-leading thermopile detectors for various applications.

Our thin film-based thermopile detectors are designed for applications such as laser power measurements, as well as gas analysis, fire detection and non-contact temperature measurements. They offer high output and signal-to-noise ratio, outstanding sensitivity and have a large active area, providing accurate measurement of laser power and energy.

Contact a Dexter team member today to find the best solution for your laser power measurements.

Gas detection is a crucial safety measure in many industries, including chemical manufacturing, environmental monitoring, and oil and gas. Gas detection systems are implemented to accurately and quickly identify gas leaks, which is critical as many gas hazards can be hard to detect due to invisibility or lack of scent. One highly reliable method of identifying gas hazards is infrared gas detection, which utilizes infrared light to identify gases based on how they absorb specific wavelengths of light. In this blog post, we will explore how infrared gas detection works and the benefits of this method.

Infrared Gas Detection

Infrared gas detection systems are used in various commercial, industrial, and scientific applications as they offer long-term stability, high sensitivity, and accurate gas detection based on how gas molecules absorb infrared radiation (IR) at specific wavelengths.1

The components of an infrared gas detection system include a chamber with an emitter (such as an IR lamp) on one side and, on the other side, an optical filter and thermopile detector. Gases enter the chamber, and molecules within the gas will absorb some of the IR energy from the emitter. This process reduces the amount of energy or response at that specific wavelength, and based on the Beer-Lambert Law, the gas absorption is measured and analyzed to identify the concentration of gas present. If no gas is present, the thermopile will measure the energy received from the IR source and produce a proportional electrical signal.

Advantages of Infrared Gas Detection

There are numerous benefits to using infrared gas detectors, with two key points being their ability to detect gases that are transparent to visible light or those with low concentrations. They are also used to detect a wide range of gases at different temperatures, pressures, and visibilities. Other key benefits include the following:

• A highly reliable and accurate method of gas detection
• Easy to-use systems
• Fast response times
• High sensitivity and specificity
• Low maintenance due to factory calibration
• Minimal interference from environmental factors
• Minimizes risk of contamination or poisoning

Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center was founded in 1977 by Robert Toth, Sr., Ph.D. to bring low-cost, high-performance infrared sensing to customers around the world. Our products offer superior sensitivity, enhanced signal-to-noise ratios, and meet MIL-Spec reliability and durability testing standards.

We provide our customers with over 1,000 thermopile configurations and a range of encapsulating gas options to offer superior sensing needs for a range of applications and industries. Our thermopile detectors are used in systems for gas analysis, gas detection, and flame sensing, and we continue to develop these products to meet high-market demands.

Contact a member of Dexter Research Center today to learn more about infrared gas detection.

References and Further Reading

https://www.azosensors.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=675
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8838934/

Thermopile detectors are used to measure the temperature of objects at a distance by converting infrared (IR) radiation into an electrical signal. This single main functionality serves a raft of functions across industry and science, enabling high-precision non-contact temperature measurements of a near-limitless range of substrates. High-sensitivity thermopile sensors also compare favourably with other types of temperature sensor modules in terms of durability and stability, making them ideal for intensive and routine applications alike.

This article will explore the working principle of thermopile detectors and the various applications they serve in multiple industries.

What is the Working Principle of a Thermopile Detector?

Understanding thermopile detectors requires a cursory understanding of thermocouple technology. Thermocouples–the most prevalent type of electrical temperature-sensing element–comprise two dissimilar metal wires bonded to form a “hot junction” and a “cold junction”. When the joint is heated or cooled, it generates a weak voltage (V), also known as the Seebeck voltage, which corresponds to the change in temperature. There is also a proportionality factor to consider, but for the purposes of this article, it is enough to know that the voltage generated is directly proportional to the temperature difference between the hot and cold junctions.

Thermopile detectors comprise an array of thermocouples connected in a series. The underlying idea is to multiply the effect of each individual element. They can be considered a group of miniature thermocouple junctions–similarly divided into hot and cold junctions–which are composed of alternating n-type and p-type materials, referred to as “arms”.

The arm materials vary with different thermopile types. Thin film systems, for example, tend to comprise arms of antimony and bismuth, while silicon thermopiles comprise alternating n-type and p-type Poly-Silicon or n-type and Gold or Aluminum. The cold junctions are generally connected to the detector package and around the perimeter, while the hot junctions–which define the active area–are located in the center and coated with an energy absorber. These hot junctions are suspended on a thin membrane to thermally isolate them from the rest of the package. So, how does the array work?

As mentioned, the multiple thermocouples in a thermopile detector are connected in series, which means that the voltage difference generated by each one is added together to produce a total voltage output. This total voltage output is proportional to the temperature of the object being measured. Since the Seebeck effect is a relatively weak signal, thermopile detectors are equipped with voltage amplifiers to ensure the signal can be read by a meter or data acquisition (DAQ) system. A calibration factor or transfer function is then used to convert the signal into a legible temperature measurement.

Applications of Thermopile Detectors

Thermopile detectors have various applications in various industries due to their accuracy, stability, and durability. Some of the critical applications of thermopile detectors are listed below:

• Energy: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature control in boilers and heating systems. They are also used in solar panels for monitoring the temperature of the panels, ensuring that they operate at the optimal temperature for maximum efficiency.
• Automotive: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature sensing in engines, exhaust systems, and catalytic converters. They are also used for temperature monitoring in battery packs in electric vehicles.
• Aerospace: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature monitoring in spacecraft and satellites. They are also used in aircraft engines for temperature sensing and control.
• Medical: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature measurement in medical equipment, such as infrared thermometers. They are also used in non-invasive temperature monitoring in the human body, such as in fever detection.
• Industrial: Thermopile detectors are used for temperature control and monitoring in various industrial processes, including drying, baking, and heat treating. They are also used in industrial ovens and furnaces for temperature control.

Looking for Thermopile Detectors?

At Dexter Research Center, we lead the way in delivering infrared sensing solutions for various detection applications. For more information about thermopile detectors, refer to the technical papers section of our M5 Thin Film-based thermopile detector product page for a full Introduction to Thermopile Detectors. Should you have any further questions or require assistance, our knowledgeable team is here to help.

A nondispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor is often used as a gas sensor to detect and measure gases in the atmosphere and their concentrations. NDIR sensors work on the principle of molecules absorbing infrared light and specific wavelengths, and air samples are collected in a tube and analyzed under a light source.

NDIR sensors are highly accurate and sensitive devices used in a wide range of applications where monitoring gases and their concentration is crucial. This includes industrial safety, environmental monitoring, and medical applications. In this blog post, we provide an overview of NDIR sensors and discuss their benefits and applications.

NDIR Sensors Working Principle

Some of the most common gases measured with NDIR sensors include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane, and sulphur dioxide. These gases can be lethal or explosive in high concentrations, so monitoring them is critical in many applications and environments. Gas sensors, such as NDIRs, require a sample chamber, an infrared detector, and an infrared light source.

The sample chamber is placed between the light source and the detector and contains the gas sample that needs to be analyzed. The light source emits an infrared light through the sample chamber and the detector reads how much light passes through. Gas molecules react with infrared radiation and the ratio of radiation energy to incident energy is depends on the gas concentration. The gas sensors measure the gas concentration by monitoring the decrease in transmitted infrared light.

Applications of NDIR Sensors

NDIR sensors can be used in almost every industry for a wide range of monitoring applications. They can be used in breathalyzers to measure blood alcohol levels, identify refrigerent leaks and monitor toxic gases in dangerous environments. In this section, we look at the environmental and industrial and medical applications of NDIR sensors.1

Environmental Monitoring

Monitoring gases is required in many environmental situations, such as monitoring emissions from industrial processes, measuring indoor air quality, and gas concentrations in ambient air. They are ideal because of their high sensitivity and accuracy, but can be impacted by humidity and temperatures, which may require corrective action.

Industrial Applications

In industrial settings, NDIR sensors play a crucial role in keeping personnel and environments safe from toxic or explosive gase as they are highly sensitive to target gases. For environments such as manufacturing plants, they are a cost-effective and reliable solution to ensure worker safety.

Medical Applications

Hospitals also use infrared sensors to monitor gas concentration levels in anesthsia machines to ensure patients are safe during operations.

Advantages of NDIR Sensors

There are a number of advantages to using NDIR sensors in gas monitoring applications. They are low maintenance solutions that offer long-life performance. Other advantages include the following:

• Cost-efficient
• High accuracy and sensitivity
• High selectivity to target gases
• Monitor a range of gases

Although NDIR sensors require a higher upfront cost, their advantages contribute to a lower life-time cost as they offer accurate and reliable gas monitoring over a long period of time. As technology advances, NDIR sensors will be developed further for more advanced monitoring applications.

Dexter Research Center

Dexter Research Center offers a wide selection of infrared gas and temperature detectors that provide a reliable, stable performance for longer. Our products have been used in environmental and industrial monitoring applications, hospital anesthetic monitoring and NASA space missions, and we continue to develop high-quality, reliable devices for clients around the world.

To learn more about NDIR sensors and their applications, contact a member of Dexter today!

References

azosensors.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=675

Miniature amplifiers are crucial components in electronics because they are compact, lightweight, and can be easily integrated into various systems across a range of industries. Mini or micro amps, as they are also known, are used when power options are limited, and space efficiency is vital for the application. Amplifiers are used in scientific research and development applications to support fast startup times, minimal noise, and reduced buffering in scientific instruments and systems.

An Overview of Miniature Amplifiers

Miniature amplifiers play an important role as they help to enhance small or weak input signals. Amplifiers work by converting an input signal into a large format to increase the current, power, or voltage of a signal, which is a crucial process in electronic circuits. Amplifiers rely on power from an existing electrical source, which can be used in various applications such as medical devices, personal and commercial audio equipment, and scientific instruments.

Applications of Miniature Amplifiers

Many electrical applications benefit from amplifiers, especially miniature amplifiers for smaller or more intrinsic systems. Miniature amplifiers are commonly used in data acquisition systems and medical devices, image and signal processing equipment, spectroscopy and audio/video processing equipment, and electrophysiology research to amplify signals and speed up processing times.

Other key applications of miniature amplifiers include the following:

• Multiplexing of a number of thermopiles
• Thermopiles are non-contact sensors used to measure temperature and specific gases. However, they have a high series impediment that requires identifying gas or temperature across a wide range of parameters. This application requires amplifiers with minimal to no noise and the capability to enhance low signals.
• Gas analysis

Amplifiers are used in gas analysis to enhance the signals transmitted through the equipment. Miniature amplifiers reduce noise and improve signals, which leads to more precise gas analysis and higher repeatability of results.

Non-Contact Temperature Measurement

Non-contact temperature measurement is a key application for miniature amplifiers in the sensing solutions industry. These sensors detect the infrared radiation emitted by an object, which is directly proportional to its temperature. However, the output can be extremely weak. Miniature amplifiers enhance the weak input signals received by the sensor, increasing the voltage and current of the signal for a more accurate temperature measurement. This is particularly important in applications where temperature measurement accuracy is critical, such as in medical devices or scientific research.

Dexter Research Center, Inc. and Miniature Amplifiers

Dexter Research Center, Inc. was founded by the leading thin-film and materials expert Robert Toth, Sr., to provide world-class infrared sensing and detect-and-manage solutions for companies worldwide. We provide our clients with a wide range of non-contact temperature sensors and thermopile thin-film and silicon-based products, in addition to ever-evolving thermopile detectors.

We currently offer a Miniature Amplifier PCB, available in three amplifier gains (300, 500, and 1,000) for a range of thermopile applications. The PCB comes with a cable, connector, and 1.25V voltage reference with the option of adding a temperature sensor. The amplifier has an extremely low offset, drift, and bias current for significantly reduced digital switching noise. The PCB was designed to support fast startup times in research and development instruments.

For more information on how miniature amplifiers support a range of applications, please get in touch with a member of Dexter Research today.