What is the difference between a Sensor and a Transducer?

A sensor and a transducer are most times considered to be the same because both are used to convert one form of energy to another. Even, from this similarity, the two can still be differentiated in that a transducer is a device used to convert energy from one form to another, while a sensor can only convert any form of energy to electric signals so that a corresponding effect can be initiated.

That is why most sensors that are available are electronic because they have to detect changes in the environment and convert their input into electronic data. A perfect example of what a transducer should be able to do is to convert electromagnetic waves to electricity, vice versa.

Although, some transducers can be regarded as sensors simply because they can convert one form of energy to electric signals, however, this does not mean all transducers are sensors. Another difference is that transducers are not as sensitive as sensors.

Transducers and sensors are two type of devices that can provide energy. A transducer is used to convert energy from one form to another. An example of a transducer is an antenna, which television and radios use. It helps convert waves that are magnetic to electricity and can also be used to convert electricity to magnetic waves.

Sensor has the same function of the transducer, which is to convert energy, but after the energy is converted the sensor can be used as a processor. An example is a sensor in an air conditioner that indicates the temperature as well as a sensor in cars.

The basic difference between a transducer and a sensor lies in their different functionalities. A transducer refers to a kind of device that is employed in converting one form of energy to another. The antenna is a perfect example of this, of which it helps to convert magnetic waves to electricity and vice versa.

As in the case of a sensor, it also helps in converting energy from one form to another, but majorly to electric signals, and can then be used as a processor. In short, a sensor can be said to detect physical features for processing signal. A transducer is known to convert energy in double directions, whereas a sensor can convert energy in only one direction. In addition, you can employ some transducers to function as sensors. When it comes to sensitivity also, transducers are considered to be less sensitive than sensors, generally. Examples of sensors include the temperature sensor in air conditioners, and an oxygen sensor in cars.