Question

Linearity of transducer is closeness of the transducer’s calibration curve to a special

• A. \( \text{curved line within a given percentage of full scale output} \)
• B. \( \text{straight line within a given percentage of full scale output} \)
• C. \( \text{straight line within a given percentage of half scale output} \)
• D. \( \text{curved line within a given percentage of half scale output} \)

Hint:

When assessing transducer performance, linearity is a crucial characteristic. A highly linear transducer provides a consistent and predictable output for a given input, simplifying calibration and ensuring accurate measurements across its entire range. Deviations from linearity can introduce errors, which are often expressed as a percentage of the full-scale output.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To solve this problem, let's analyze the concept of linearity in transducers and examine each of the given options.

1. What is Transducer Linearity?

Linearity in transducers refers to how closely the transducer's output follows a straight-line relationship with the input quantity being measured. It is a measure of the deviation of the transducer's calibration curve from an ideal linear response.

2. Understanding the Calibration Curve

The calibration curve represents the relationship between:

• Input: The physical quantity being measured (e.g., pressure, temperature)
• Output: The electrical signal produced by the transducer

An ideal transducer would produce a perfectly straight calibration curve.

3. How Linearity is Specified

Linearity is typically expressed as:

• The maximum deviation of the actual calibration curve from a reference line
• Given as a percentage of the full scale output (not half scale)
• Reference line is always a straight line (not curved)

4. Analysis of the Options

- Curved line within a given percentage of full scale output: Incorrect - reference should be straight line
- Straight line within a given percentage of full scale output: Correct - matches standard definition
- Straight line within a given percentage of half scale output: Incorrect - linearity is based on full scale
- Curved line within a given percentage of half scale output: Incorrect - both aspects are wrong

5. Why Full Scale Output Matters

The full scale output is used because:

• It represents the transducer's maximum operating range
• Deviations are most meaningful when compared to the full range
• Half scale measurements don't properly represent performance across the entire range

6. Practical Implications

Good linearity (small deviation from straight line) means:

• More accurate measurements across the entire range
• Simpler signal processing and calibration
• Better overall measurement system performance

7. Final Answer

The linearity of a transducer is the closeness of the transducer's calibration curve to a straight line within a given percentage of full scale output.