Sensors & Measurement
RTD
Resistance Temperature Detector: a temperature sensor whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature.
IN ONE SENTENCE
Platinum RTDs such as Pt100 and Pt1000 are valued for stability and accuracy.
In normal English
The measurement electronics pass a small current through the element and calculate temperature from resistance. Lead-wire resistance must be considered.
Why would I use it?
Use it for accurate industrial temperature measurement over moderate temperature ranges.
THINK OF IT LIKE…
A precision resistor that changes value with temperature.
Related terms
Pt100, Pt1000, thermocouple
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