I've got a very amateurish question.
I've got the stock temperature sensor from my motorcycle, and I'm trying to read it with my duemianove. The problem is, I'm not really sure how. When I try to check the resistance, the meter shows an open reading.
I've been assuming it's a thermistor, but I think I might be wrong because of that bi-metal looking tip. Any help, wise sages of arduino?
Pic below.
Hi Roy;
Are you sure that is a temperature sensor and not a temperature switch?
A temperature switch will remain in one state until it reaches a specific temperature and then it will switch to is it's other state. In your case it sounds like yours might close it's contacts when it gets to a specific higher temperature.
So bottom line, first you have to figure out if you are dealing with a sensor (that can measure a continuous temperature range) or a switch (which can only turn on or off around a setpoint temp).
Lefty
You say you've tried measuring with a meter - did you try dipping the business end in very hot water and then trying the meter reading?
Thanks, you're right lefty. I found an exploded parts diagram, and it is listed as a switch.
It looks very similar to the sensor found on most bikes, you could probably replace it with one if required.
What is the objective of your project ?
I'm currently working on a temp controller for mine that controls an electronic water pump interfaced with a thermistor utilising the PID library.
It's pretty simple, the bike has no temp gauge, just an idiot light. I've got a 2x16LCD I want to output to.
I have an extra stock temp switch, so I hacked off the end to see it's just a hollow bolt. I think I'm going to try putting an LM35 in there and closing it back up.