Exam Question

### Part (a): Understanding the term 'Transducer' (6 Marks)
A **transducer** is a device that converts energy from one form into another. In the context of marine engineering and automation, this term most commonly refers to devices that convert a physical quantity (like pressure, temperature, or flow) into a proportional electrical signal, or vice-versa.
Transducers can be broadly classified into two categories:
**1. Input Transducers (Sensors):** These devices sense a physical parameter and convert it into an electrical signal for monitoring, control, or alarm purposes. The standard output signal in marine systems is often a 4-20 mA current loop.