Most people who purchase personal computers buy fully configured and assembled units. This is especially true for computer buyers who plan to use them for everyday tasks like word processing or surfing the web.

The raw analog output from a thermocouple (TC) or resistance temperature detector (RTD) must be converted into a digital signal before the temperature can be interpreted. It can be sent in its raw form to a simple digital display, small temperature loop controller, transmitter or the temperature I/O card of a larger automation system.

Applications involving heating invariably require temperature measurement instrumentation. Temperature instruments typically consist of a thermowell, a sensor and a transmitter to convert the sensor data to an industry-standard signal such as 4 to 20 mA or fieldbus digital communications.