During the Sensor+Test show in Nuremberg smartGAS Mikrosensorik GmbH (Germany) introduced a new generation of gas sensors, which have an optional Bluetooth interface. The new silarex sensors utilise infrared absorption technology (NDIR) resulting in an extremely high selectivity. Cross sensitivities with other gases are reduced to an absolute minimum.

In the past gas sensors have been integrated directly into an apparatus or have been connected to a PLC based control system. Maintenance has been quite complicated in these kind of applications. The new Bluetooth interface opens the possibility to access the sensors via this wireless standard. The user can transfer data from the sensor to an app, which is installed either on a smartphone or a tablet computer. Maintenance becomes much easier, because the data can be stored in a centralised database. The app also allows calibration and testing of the sensor. In addition service personnel can get assistance from a central help desk.