FOTEMP System Principle of Operation
Fiber optic thermometer systems are also available for rent!
The TS series fiber optic temperature probes are true absolute temperature sensors consisting of a gallium arsenide (GaAs) crystal that is mounted on the end of an optical fiber. The diagram above illustrates how the fiber optic temperature measurement system works. A broadband light source is coupled into the fiber and impinges on the crystal. GaAs behaves like a temperature sensitive cut-off filter in which the crystal absorbs some light and transmits other light. The characteristic edge, or transition wavelength, between the reflected and transmitted spectrum is directly related to the band gap energy, and hence the absolute temperature.
Technical Explanation: The system records the photo energy sufficient to excite an electron from the valence to the conduction band of the semiconductor crystal. The required amount of energy is equal to the so-called band-gap energy, Egap. The well-known underlying principle of operation is based on the temperature dependence of the band gap of the direct (zone center) GaAs intrinsic gap; Egap=1.423eV, corresponding to 872nm at 300°K; dEgap/dT= -0.452meV/°K at 300°K. The spectrum of a GaAs sensor crystal placed in a medium of unknown temperature is measured in the reflectance mode, and the wavelength position of the characteristic edge is analyzed to determine the temperature.
NOTE: FOTEMP® is a registered trademark of Weidmann Holding AG
Download the FOTEMP Signal Conditioner Quick Guide:
Micronor offers a complete range of fiber optic temperature sensors, probes and interfaces for temperature measurement in challenging environments. TS series fiber optic temperature probes offer immunity to RF and microwave radiation along with wide temperature range, intrinsic safety and non-invasive use. The fiber optic temperature probes can operate over -200°C to +300°C (-328°F to +572°F), and withstand harsh and corrosive environments. Typical fiber optic temperature monitoring applications include:
- Process monitoring
- Power transformers
- Medical environments
- Catheter instrumentation
- Harsh chemical conditions, including radiation environments
Select the FOTEMP signal conditioner model best suited for your application:
- FOTEMP-PLUS, MOST POPULAR MODEL SERIES, Compact bench top model for the enduser, lab and OEM applications, 1/2/4 channels
- FOTEMP-H2, New 2024 Model ADVANCED HANDHELD SERIES, Compact portable unit with USB-C interface, unattended data logging OR external data logging via PC, 1 or 2 channels
- FOTEMP-T2, General purpose, multichannel monitoring of industrial process, R&D, test and transformer applications, DIN rail or Chassis mount or Bench Top, 4/8/12/16 channels
- FOTEMP Modular, Expandable, modular rack-mount system for monitoring 1-255 channels
- FOTEMP-OEM, OEM module, 1/2/4 channels
- FOTEMP-Mini3, OEM Mini PCB module, 1 channel
- INSULOGIX-T3, Advanced Transformer Hotspot Monitoring for oil-filled and dry transformers, DIN Rail or Chassis Mount, 4/8/12/16 channels
- Specify Calibration Option that meets your measurement range requirements:
- Basic A1 Calibration Option: -20°C to +150°C
- Basic A2 Calibration Option: -40°C to +200°C
- Standard B Calibration Option: -40°C to +300°C
- Extended Temperature C Calibration Option: -200°C to +300°C
- All FOTEMP/INSULOGIX models include free copy of FOTEMP-ASSISTANT graphical display and data logging software
Most popular models usually available in stock for PURCHASE:
- MOST POPULAR! FOTEMP4-PLUS-P0-V-B, 4-Channel Bench Top model, USB, RS232, 0-10V Analog Outputs, B High Temperature Calibration (-40C to +300C)
- NEW HANDHELD MODEL! FOTEMP-H2-1-A2 or FOTEMP-H2-2-A2, 1- or 2-Channel Handheld Portable Models, USB-C Interface, A2 Medium Temperature Calibration (-40C to +200C)
- FOTEMP4-PLUS-P0-V-C, 4-Channel Bench Top model, USB, RS232, 0-10V Analog Outputs, C Extended Temperature Calibration (-200C to +300C)
- FOTEMP-T2-8-P0-A2, 8-Channel DIN rail mount module with Display, USB, RS485/ModbusRTU, 8x 4-20mA Analog Outputs, 4x Programmable Control Relays, A2 Calibration (-40C to +200C)
Models available for RENT (subject to availability):
- FOTEMP4-PLUS-P0-V-B, 4-Channel Bench Top, USB/RS232/0-10V Analog Output
- FOTEMP-T2-8-B, 8-Channel DIN Rail Mount Module, USB and RS485/ModbusRTU
- FOTEMP-H2-1-A2, 1- Channel Handheld Portable Model, USB-C Interface, A2 Medium Temperature Calibration (-40C to +200C)
- Purchase Option: 50% of paid rental costs can be applied towards purchase of rental unit or another model
