Comparison of low cost Temperature Sensors

Hi,

I'm planning to do a comparison of several low cost temperature sensors that are commonly used with Arduino's (and other micro controllers/single board computer). I would like to investigate general accuracy/precision (against manufacturers quoted values) and how they perform overtime?

I am wondering what sensors would the community be interested in seeing tested?

So far I have been looking at testing these components (or similar):

-DHT11
-DS18B20

Also what sort of tests would be interesting to see?

Thanks for the suggestions, should make an interesting/useful project.

Alex

Hi,

This is something I was looking at doing for my project a bit later on, but as you are beating me to the draw could I suggest LM35, DHT22 as well.
Would you be testing them in different environments e.g. static air, flowing air, levels of moisture(immersion and humidity).
Fixing methods would also be very useful, from mechanical via screws etc. to adhesives.

If I can help in any way let me know.

Peter

LM335 does not claim as much accuracy as LM35. It would be interesting to include it and see if the difference in performance matters.

What independent device will you be using for verifying the temperature?

It would also be interesting to find out how quickly the different devices respond to a temperature change.

...R

a simple PN junction
http://www.ti.com/lit/an/sboa019/sboa019.pdf

an LM35 with a 10 meter wire

I had a data logger, stuck it in the fridge, after an hour it was still falling but very slow, like the whole unit was in slow motion. finally took it out and it never reached 35 degrees, I figure it I left it there for overnight it might.
totally useless for outdoor winter temperatures.

still air, room temperature. just the subtle change over a day

may I suggest using a teensy for it's on-board ADC for the analog sensors ? makes it so we do not have to cobble a circuit together.

platinum RTD
there are many sources for an RTD on a wire, pre-made.
I think the brewers use these.

also, for the digital ones, get samples from the manufacturer and get some from e-bay. or china.
comparing a Chinese unit to a manufactures spec is a bit unfair.

not sure of your budget, but a PID controller with thermocouple. they are rated for industrial temps, very wide ranges, not too sensitive for tiny changes, but it would be interesting to see.

check - sensors:temp-hum_sensors_compared [Boxtec Playground] -

Very interested in how this shapes up

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Temperature-Measurement-Sensor-Module-High-Quality-New-DS18B20-/350856347380?pt=AU_B_I_Electrical_Test_Equipment&hash=item51b0aafef4

And the manufacturers website for those interested

http://www.lctech-inc.com/