Semiconductor temperature sensors are produced in the form of ICs. Their fundamental design results from the fact that semiconductor diodes have temperature-sensitive voltage vs. current characteristics.
The use of IC temperature sensors is limited to applications where the temperature is within a –55° to 150°C range. The measurement range of IC temperature sensors may be small compared to that of thermocouples and RTDs, but they have several advantages: they are small, accurate, and inexpensive, and are easy to interface with other devices such as amplifiers, regulators, DSPs, and microcontrollers.
IC temperature sensors continue to evolve, providing a varied array of functions, features, and interfaces. With the higher level of integration now feasible, digital IC temperature sensors can report both local and remote temperatures, monitor other system parameters, control fans, or warn when a specific temperature is exceeded.
There are two main types of IC temperature sensors?analog and digital?and several variations of each type. Analog sensors can produce a voltage or current proportional to temperature. Digital sensors may monitor local and/or remote temperatures, and can also include features such as voltage monitoring, fan control, and over- or under-limit alarms.
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