Hello!
I'm trying to measure ambient air temperatures (near room temperature) over a long period (24 hours), sampling every 5 minutes or so. I'm interested in differences in temperature between different areas in a space, and these temperature differences will be small (at most 1 or 2 degrees C), so it's important that the sensors are precise and that they do not drift over time. I've narrowed the choice down to PT100 RTD sensors and TMP117 sensors. I've read that the platinum RTD sensors are preferred for their precision and low drift, but the listed accuracy values for the TMP117 (0.1 degrees C) is actually lower than most RTD sensors. Do you know what tolerance class the Adafruit RTD sensors are? Do you have any thoughts on how the TMP117 compares in precision, accuracy, and drift to the Adafruit RTDs?
Thanks for any help!
Temperature sensors
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- barshatriplee
- Posts: 200
- Joined: Wed Mar 22, 2023 10:11 am
Re: Temperature sensors
The Adafruit PT100 RTD sensors are typically classified as Class B RTDs. Class B RTDs have a tolerance of ±0.3°C or ±0.3% (whichever is greater) at 0°C. However, it's always a good idea to verify the exact specifications for the specific model you are considering, as they may vary.
Now, comparing the TMP117 to PT100 RTD sensors in terms of precision, accuracy, and drift:
Precision: PT100 RTDs generally have excellent precision due to the platinum element used in their construction. They offer high-resolution temperature measurements. The TMP117 is also known for its high precision, with a resolution of up to 0.0078°C. In terms of precision alone, both options can provide accurate readings for your application.
Accuracy: While the listed accuracy of the TMP117 is 0.1°C, it's important to note that accuracy specifications can vary depending on various factors such as temperature range, calibration, and sensor-to-sensor variation. On the other hand, PT100 RTDs can achieve higher accuracies with appropriate calibration and proper measurement techniques. However, achieving high accuracy with PT100 RTDs often requires additional calibration and compensation techniques, which may not be necessary for the TMP117.
Drift: PT100 RTDs are known for their low drift over time, making them suitable for long-term temperature monitoring applications. The TMP117 also has low drift characteristics, ensuring stable and reliable measurements over extended periods. Both options are designed to minimize drift, providing consistent temperature readings.
Considering the factors mentioned above, both the PT100 RTD sensors and the TMP117 can be viable options for your application.
By the way, if you ever consider measuring an underwater or snow temperature, you can consider DS18B20:
https://www.theengineeringprojects.com/ ... 18b20.html
Now, comparing the TMP117 to PT100 RTD sensors in terms of precision, accuracy, and drift:
Precision: PT100 RTDs generally have excellent precision due to the platinum element used in their construction. They offer high-resolution temperature measurements. The TMP117 is also known for its high precision, with a resolution of up to 0.0078°C. In terms of precision alone, both options can provide accurate readings for your application.
Accuracy: While the listed accuracy of the TMP117 is 0.1°C, it's important to note that accuracy specifications can vary depending on various factors such as temperature range, calibration, and sensor-to-sensor variation. On the other hand, PT100 RTDs can achieve higher accuracies with appropriate calibration and proper measurement techniques. However, achieving high accuracy with PT100 RTDs often requires additional calibration and compensation techniques, which may not be necessary for the TMP117.
Drift: PT100 RTDs are known for their low drift over time, making them suitable for long-term temperature monitoring applications. The TMP117 also has low drift characteristics, ensuring stable and reliable measurements over extended periods. Both options are designed to minimize drift, providing consistent temperature readings.
Considering the factors mentioned above, both the PT100 RTD sensors and the TMP117 can be viable options for your application.
By the way, if you ever consider measuring an underwater or snow temperature, you can consider DS18B20:
https://www.theengineeringprojects.com/ ... 18b20.html
- MAugs
- Posts: 5
- Joined: Fri Jun 09, 2023 11:13 am
Re: Temperature sensors
Thanks! That's super helpful!
- barshatriplee
- Posts: 200
- Joined: Wed Mar 22, 2023 10:11 am
Re: Temperature sensors
You're welcome, dear.
Please be positive and constructive with your questions and comments.