Pressure Sensing Die, OEM Sensor or Transmitter? Understanding the Differences

Not all pressure sensors are created equal. There are significant differences between a tiny pressure sensing die and a ready-to-connect pressure transmitter - even though both measure pressure. The key question is how much of the measurement task is already handled by the sensor solution and what the device developer still needs to take care of. AMSYS explains how the different sensor solutions differ in design and functionality.

From the Sensing Element to a Conditioned Signal

The pressure sensing die is the actual sensing element. In a piezoresistive silicon pressure sensing die, pressure deforms a thin diaphragm, causing electrical resistances to change. This produces a pressure-dependent raw signal. Basic, unpackaged sensing dies also require assembly, electrical contacting, signal amplification, calibration and temperature compensation. This provides flexibility for custom designs but requires appropriate development and manufacturing expertise. Processing individual silicon dies typically involves a cleanroom equipped for die assembly, as well as specialized equipment such as wire bonders and adhesive dispensers.

An OEM pressure sensor often goes one step further. The sensing element is already integrated into a design intended for installation in a device, frequently including pressure ports and electronics. However, the term "OEM" refers to its use as an integrated component rather than a specific level of functionality. Alongside uncompensated models, fully calibrated and temperature-compensated sensors are also available. These already provide conditioned output signals, such as an analog voltage signal or a digital interface. This reduces some of the development work, although mechanical and electrical integration into the device is still required.

When Is a Transmitter the Right Choice?

An industrial pressure transmitter is designed for direct installation in machinery or industrial systems. It combines pressure measurement and signal conditioning in a ready-to-use unit, usually with a robust housing and suitable connections. Instead of developing a custom sensor assembly, users can install a suitable transmitter and connect its output signal to the control system.

However, a more highly integrated solution is not automatically the better choice. A pressure sensing die can be attractive for high-volume production with custom electronics. A compact OEM sensor is suitable for devices in which pressure measurement forms part of a larger assembly. A transmitter offers advantages when a protected, directly mountable solution is required. The amount of development work remaining at system level is therefore an important difference between these designs.

This is also reflected in the AMSYS portfolio: The SM30F is a piezoresistive silicon pressure sensing die that can be integrated as an individual chip into custom assemblies. The AMS 5812, a calibrated and temperature-compensated OEM pressure sensor, already provides analog and digital output signals and can be mounted on printed circuit boards. The industrial M3200 pressure transmitter features a robust stainless steel construction and is available with different connection and output options, for example for pressure monitoring in pumps or hydraulic systems. Three solutions for pressure measurement - each offering a different range of integrated functions.

AMSYS Sensor Knowledge

In this ongoing series, AMSYS explores technical fundamentals, selection criteria and practical applications of modern sensor technology. Further technical information, white papers and application notes are available on the AMSYS website.

AMSYS GmbH & Co. KG
An der Fahrt 4
55124 Mainz
Germany

https://www.amsys.de

Herr V. Fruci

info@amsys.de

AMSYS GmbH & Co. KG is a German company specializing in sensor technology, particularly pressure measurement. Its product range includes pressure sensors for measurement ranges from 25 Pa to 800 bar, as well as humidity, temperature, and tilt sensors, and wireless solutions. In addition to standard products, AMSYS offers customizations. Learn more at www.amsys.de.

This release was published on openPR.