A transducer converts one form of energy into another — most often a physical quantity such as pressure, temperature, force or displacement into an electrical signal that a circuit can read. Sensors are the subset of transducers used for measurement; actuators convert in the opposite direction.
Common transducer types
- Pressure transducers — piezoresistive, capacitive and strain-gauge
- Temperature — thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors and IC temperature sensors
- Force and load — strain-gauge load cells and piezoelectric force sensors
- Displacement and position — LVDT, potentiometric, magnetic and optical encoders
- Acoustic and ultrasonic — piezoelectric transmitters and receivers
- Optical — photodiodes, phototransistors and optical sensors
Output formats
Millivolt, amplified voltage, 4-20 mA current loop, ratiometric and digital (I²C, SPI, CAN) outputs. The output format usually drives the sourcing decision more than the sensing element, because it determines interface compatibility.
Sourcing considerations
Match range, accuracy, operating temperature, media compatibility and mechanical interface before substituting. Transducers are frequently single-sourced, so obsolescence planning matters; we source discontinued and long-lead sensor parts through OEM excess and verified channels.
About Gateway America and StockConnect
Gateway America is an ISO 9001:2015 certified, ERAI-member independent distributor of electronic components based in Tampa, Florida, shipping worldwide. StockConnect is Gateway America's free inventory platform, where suppliers list excess stock at no cost and buyers search that stock alongside franchise and OEM excess availability.