Non-amplified (millivolt) output sensors are a good choice for applications where short cable runs are needed and where there is low potential for electrical noise. Since a millivolt output level can be very low, it is more sensitive to surrounding noise and disturbances.
These types of sensors are usually lower in size and cost because the signal conditioning is located remotely from the actual sensor.
This type of output is quite common in pressure transducers which have a Wheatstone Bridge strain gage circuit.
Some millivolt output sensors have a specified fixed range and the output is specified as mV/V (millivolt per volt). Because the output is expressed as a ratio between the input and output voltages, the user is not restricted in the supply voltage. The voltage limits are normally indicated in the sensor specifications. The input voltage and the sensor’s millivolt output will be proportional.
For example, a sensor with a 10mV/V output, applying 10 VDC excitation, will have a full scale output of 100mV.
Given its simple nature, the millivolt output is relatively easy to understand, measure, and troubleshoot. It is well suited for virtually any low noise industrial measurement application.
Give us a call if you have any questions about non-amplified outputs, or if this option is well suited for your application.
