Sensors
Sensors are the primary way we collect physical data about the world. From heart rate to speed to humidity, a sensor specializes in whatever you are looking to measure. However, the sensor alone cannot transmit that information in a way that is convenient for us to use in our projects - enter SparkFun. We specialize in taking cutting-edge technologies and designing circuit boards that enable these technologies to be used in real-world applications.
Types of Sensors at SparkFun
Biometrics: Biometrics sensors allow your projects to recognize and react to human characteristics such as fingerprints, heart rate, and muscle activity. SparkFun offers a range of biometric modules ideal for wearables, access control systems, and health-monitoring applications.
Capacitive: Capacitive sensors detect changes in electrical capacitance to sense touch, proximity, or material properties. SparkFun’s capacitive sensors are perfect for creating touch interfaces, fluid level detectors, or non-contact object detection systems.
Current: Current sensors measure electrical flow to monitor power consumption, battery charging, or motor operation. SparkFun provides accurate, easy-to-integrate current sensing solutions for energy monitoring, robotics, and industrial systems.
Distance: Distance sensors enable accurate measurement of how far an object is from the sensor using technologies like ultrasonic, LiDAR, and ToF. SparkFun’s distance sensors are ideal for robotics, automation, and obstacle detection in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Environmental: Environmental sensors monitor atmospheric conditions such as temperature, humidity, pressure, air quality, and gas levels. SparkFun offers reliable environmental sensing solutions to support weather stations, HVAC systems, and smart agriculture.
Flex / Force: Flex and force sensors measure bending or pressure, making them ideal for capturing motion, weight, or mechanical stress. SparkFun’s selection includes versatile options for wearable tech, robotics, and human-computer interaction projects.
Imaging: Imaging sensors capture visual data using cameras or thermal arrays, enabling your project to see or detect heat. SparkFun’s imaging solutions support applications like computer vision, facial recognition, and thermal diagnostics.
Infrared: Infrared (IR) sensors detect heat or light signals outside the visible spectrum, enabling motion detection, proximity sensing, and remote communication. SparkFun provides IR receivers, emitters, and thermopile sensors for a wide range of applications.
Misc. Sensors: SparkFun’s Miscellaneous Sensors category includes unique and specialized sensors that don’t fit traditional classifications. From magnetic field detection to lightning sensing, this collection supports creative and experimental builds.
Movement: Movement sensors such as accelerometers, gyros, and IMUs track motion, orientation, and acceleration. SparkFun’s motion-sensing modules are ideal for drones, fitness tracking, and gesture-based controls.
NFC: Near Field Communication (NFC) sensors enable short-range wireless interactions for data transfer, authentication, and mobile payments. SparkFun’s NFC modules make it easy to integrate tap-and-go technology into your embedded systems.
Radiation: Radiation sensors detect ionizing radiation such as alpha, beta, and gamma particles for environmental or safety monitoring. SparkFun’s radiation detection solutions are used in scientific research, education, and geiger counter projects.
RFID: RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sensors allow you to wirelessly read and write data to tags for access control, inventory, and tracking applications. SparkFun offers easy-to-use RFID readers, writers, and breakout boards for fast integration.
Sensor Kits: Sensor kits bundle multiple sensing modules into one convenient package, making it easy to explore various technologies. SparkFun’s sensor kits are ideal for classrooms, prototyping, or learning about different types of real-world data inputs.
Sound: Sound sensors capture audio signals or detect vibrations, enabling applications like voice recognition, audio recording, and noise level monitoring. SparkFun’s sound sensor offerings range from simple microphones to advanced audio analysis modules.