Air Temperature Sensor ( Ambient / Intake ): Description and Operation
PURPOSEThe intake air temperature sensor converts the engine intake air temperature into a voltage and inputs it to the engine control module, which then corrects the fuel injection rate, etc., based on the input signal.
OPERATION
Intake Air Temperature Sensor - Temperature To Resistance Curve:
The 5V power in the engine control module is supplied via a resistor in the module to the intake air temperature sensor. Via the sensor which is a kind of resistor, it is then grounded in the engine control module. The intake air temperature sensor resistor has such characteristic that its resistance decreases as the intake air temperature rises.
Intake Air Temperature Sensor - Temperature To Voltage Curve:
The intake air temperature sensor terminal voltage increases or decreases as the sensor resistance increases or decreases. Therefore, the intake air temperature sensor terminal voltage changes with the intake air temperature, decreasing as the temperature rises.