Differences Between Point Fiber Optic Sensors and Distributed Fiber Optic Sensors

Point fiber optic sensors and distributed fiber optic sensors are two different fiber optic sensing technologies. Although both use fiber to detect physical quantities in the environment, their principles and application scenarios differ significantly.

First, point fiber optic sensors (also called localized fiber sensors) place sensing elements at specific locations on the fiber to detect physical quantities. These elements can include fiber Bragg gratings or other fiber sensing components. Point sensors are suitable when precise spatial measurement of a parameter is required because they monitor a small localized region. They are commonly used for temperature, pressure, strain, and vibration measurements.

By contrast, distributed fiber optic sensors (also known as full-fiber sensors) detect physical quantities by measuring reflection or scattering along the entire fiber length. The fiber itself acts as the sensing medium, and analysis of the optical signals along the fiber provides environmental information over long distances. Distributed sensors are used for continuous monitoring of temperature, strain, vibration, and flow across the fiber.

Other differences include installation and signal processing. Point sensors typically require modification of the fiber to incorporate sensing elements, while distributed sensors do not. Signal processing for point sensors is generally simpler, whereas distributed sensors require more complex analysis across the fiber length.

In summary, choose point fiber optic sensors when precise localized measurement is needed, and select distributed fiber optic sensors when continuous, long-distance monitoring is required.