Sensor Sensitivity Calculator
How much a sensor's output changes for every unit of input, and what that means for resolution.
Inputs
Results
Formula breakdown
Transfer characteristic: output versus input
The slope of the line is the sensitivity. The dashed triangle spans your measurement range; points show calibration data where provided.
Measurement chain
Conversion tables
| Prefix | Equivalent |
|---|
| Input unit change | Multiply S by | Example: 10 mV |
|---|
Typical sensors (approximate)
| Sensor | Sensitivity |
|---|
Key formulas and references
- Fraden, Handbook of Modern Sensors, Springer.
- Webster & Eren (eds.), Measurement, Instrumentation, and Sensors Handbook, CRC Press.
- Pallás-Areny & Webster, Sensors and Signal Conditioning, Wiley.
- Figliola & Beasley, Theory and Design for Mechanical Measurements, Wiley.
- Doebelin, Measurement Systems: Application and Design, McGraw-Hill.
- JCGM 200:2012, International Vocabulary of Metrology (VIM): definition of sensitivity of a measuring system.
Variables
| Symbol | Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| S | Sensor sensitivity | (Output unit)/(Input unit) |
| ΔOutput | Change in output signal | V, mV, mA, Ω, etc. |
| ΔInput | Change in input measurand | °C, kPa, kg, mm, Gauss, etc. |
What it means
Sensor sensitivity S is the change in output per unit change in the measured physical quantity. It is defined as S = Δoutput / Δinput. Higher sensitivity means the sensor can detect smaller changes, providing better resolution. Sensitivity is often specified in the sensor’s datasheet. For example, a thermocouple has sensitivity in µV/°C; a strain gauge has sensitivity in terms of GF; a pressure transducer may have sensitivity in mV/psi. Sensitivity is usually linear over the operating range, but non‑linearities may require calibration. Example: A temperature sensor with sensitivity 10 mV/°C produces 10mV output for every 1°C change. If the output changes by 50mV, the temperature change is 5°C. Understanding sensitivity helps in selecting a sensor for a given measurement range and accuracy.
Worked example
Sensor Sensitivity – Practical Example
Real‑World| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| ΔOutput | 10 mV |
| ΔInput | 1 °C |
| Formula | S = ΔOutput / ΔInput |
Common mistakes
Watch unit consistency and the assumptions behind the formula; misapplying it outside its valid conditions is the most frequent error.Applications
Sensor sensitivity S = Δoutput/Δinput is the change in sensor output per unit of measured quantity. It determines the resolution and signal‑to‑noise ratio. Engineers use it to select sensors for applications, to calibrate measurement systems, and to compare sensor performance. Higher sensitivity gives better detection but may also increase noise. This is a fundamental sensor parameter.
- Sensor selection and specification
- Calibration and uncertainty analysis
- Measurement system design and optimisation
- Performance comparison of sensors
- Educational understanding of sensor characteristics
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