Digital linearization and display of non-linear analog (sensor) signals

The author describes a technique for linearization of analog signals produced by typical sensors in modern vehicle applications. With this technique, arbitrary linearization functions can be selected simply. The proposed digital linearization method overcomes many of the pitfalls of traditional linearization methods, at the expense of some additional hardware and more stringent requirements on the internal voltage reference. The technique can be extended to meet necessary accuracy requirements, though the principal application is low-cost display instrumentation. As a result of this linearization method, a linear output voltage is available for recording or display. A survey of conventional techniques for signal linearization is presented, followed by a description of the proposed technique, including design considerations. A typical application example is included.