What is a key consideration when selecting sensors for digital instrumentation?

When selecting sensors for digital instrumentation, sensitivity to the physiological signal is a critical consideration. Sensitivity refers to the ability of a sensor to detect and accurately respond to changes in the physiological phenomena being measured. For instance, in medical applications, sensors must be capable of picking up small variations in biological signals, such as electrical impulses or pressure changes. Without appropriate sensitivity, the sensor may not provide reliable data, leading to potential misinterpretations of the physiological conditions being assessed.

Sensitivity ensures that the sensor can distinguish between noise and the actual signal of interest, which is essential for accurate monitoring and diagnosis. If the sensor is not sufficiently sensitive, it may fail to detect important changes in the physiological state, rendering it ineffective for clinical or research purposes. Therefore, prioritizing sensitivity is crucial for achieving the desired level of performance and reliability in digital instrumentation applications.