sensor
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sensor
A technical component that detects certain physical or chemical properties of its surroundings (such as temperature, brightness, pressure, or movement) and converts them into an electrical signal. These signals can then be processed by other devices.
Der Sensor an der Tür schaltet das Licht automatisch ein.
The sensor on the door turns the light on automatically.
'Sensor' (sensor) is an international term from Latin that exists in a very similar form in many languages. This makes the word easy to understand.
Moderne Autos sind mit zahlreichen Sensoren ausgestattet.
Modern cars are equipped with numerous sensors.
The word 'Sensor' (sensor) is very often used as the second part of compound nouns. The first part then describes what the sensor measures, e.g. 'Bewegungssensor' (motion sensor), 'Temperatursensor' (temperature sensor), or 'Lichtsensor' (light sensor).
Der Rauchmelder hat einen optischen Sensor.
The smoke detector has an optical sensor.
Verbs that are often used with 'Sensor' (sensor) describe its function: a sensor 'erfasst' (detects), 'misst' (measures), 'reagiert auf' (reacts to), or 'löst' something 'aus' (triggers something).
Der Sensor erfasst jede Bewegung im Raum.
The sensor detects every movement in the room.
probe
Both words can refer to a technical device used for measurements. “Der Sensor” is the general term for a component that detects a property and generates a signal; “die Sonde” additionally emphasizes that the measuring device is inserted into a substance or environment. Use Sensor as the general term, and Sonde for measuring devices that are inserted into something.
Der Sensor misst die Temperatur im Raum und sendet ein Signal an die Heizung.
The sensor measures the temperature in the room and sends a signal to the heating system.
Die Sonde wird in die Flüssigkeit eingeführt und misst dort den Säuregehalt.
The probe is inserted into the liquid and measures its acidity there.
