What is the primary function of a temperature transmitter?

• A. Interfaces a temperature sensor to a measurement or control device
• B. Converts a temperature into a digital signal
• C. Measures humidity
• D. Drives a motor

Answer: (A)

A temperature transmitter acts as a bridge between a temperature sensor and the measurement or control device, conditioning and transmitting the signal in a usable form. It takes the raw signal from sensors like RTDs or thermocouples and often linearizes, cold-junction compensates, and amplifies it, then outputs a standardized signal that the control system expects—commonly a 4-20 mA current loop. This makes it easier to monitor temperature accurately over distance and to integrate with other instrumentation, while also providing isolation and power to the sensor if needed. The other options misrepresent the role: converting to digital isn’t the defining function in most setups, humidity measurement is unrelated to temperature sensing, and driving a motor is outside the transmitter’s purpose.