Good question, and not always easily answered. Many medical products employing a sensing function are designed for single use; hence, sensor cost is an important consideration in the development of these products. Fiber Optic Sensors can – particularly in the case of Pressure and Temperature Sensors - cost more than traditional semiconductor-based sensors, in part because optical fiber costs more than wire, and optical connectors cost more than electrical connectors. For other Fiber Optic Sensors, such as the Oxygen/ Temperature Sensor, cost may be less than traditional oxygen sensor technologies.

There are some general guidelines for determining whether Fiber Optic Sensors are appropriate for your application:
If you answered ’yes’ to one or more of these questions, then Fiber Optic Sensors may be right for you.