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NAVSPROUT LABS · A LITTLE CURIOSITY. A COMPLETE CIRCUIT.

Temperature threshold alarm

A thermistor divider and a threshold detector can activate an alarm above a set temperature. The threshold compares a voltage derived from temperature.

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0.5 mA

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SUPPLY5.00 V
CURRENT0.45 mA
OUTPUT0.45 V
TIME0.00 s
Live curve
Calculated outputMarker = current time
ONE QUICK CHECK

A threshold alarm changes state when…

Sensors · FIELD NOTES

Understanding temperature threshold alarm

A thermistor divider and a threshold detector can activate an alarm above a set temperature. The threshold compares a voltage derived from temperature.

1. Set up the experiment

Raise the temperature across the selected alarm point. Change the alarm setting and repeat the crossing.

2. Connect the result to the equation

alarm = T > T_set

Change one parameter at a time and keep the others fixed. Read the signed output and current, then use the curve to distinguish a steady relationship from a changing transient.

Initial supply
5.00 V
Initial current
0.455 mA
Initial output
0.455 V

3. Notice the limits

This is a teaching indicator rather than a calibrated protective device. Real alarms require specified sensor accuracy, fault detection and response behavior.

Circuit reference diagram
Power supplyPower supplyThermistorThermistorR1R1Red LEDRed LED5 V · 0.455 mA

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Why it’s here

Electronics 101 makes a component change visible: an altered resistance changes a current, a capacitor changes a delay, and a sensor changes a decision. The course guide links each concept to its experiment.

  1. Open Ohm’s law and predict the effect of doubling the voltage.
  2. Change the control and compare the ammeter, curve and equation.
  3. Try RC charging and use the time constant to explain the curve.
  4. Return to the course guide to choose the next experiment.

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