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telemetry

tuh-LEM-uh-tree /təˈlem.ə.tri/

nounC1GREGMAT

technicalscientific

The automatic measurement and wireless transmission of data from remote sources (such as space vehicles or sensors) to a receiving station for monitoring and analysis.

Emphasizes the distance between the measurement site and the analysis site, as well as the automated, continuous nature of the data stream.

The story behind the word. Formed by combining the Greek prefix tele- (meaning 'far off' or 'distant', as in telephone or telescope) with metron (meaning 'measure'). The term emerged in the late 19th century with the invention of electrical systems that could transmit weather measurements over telegraph wires.

Word relationships

remote monitoring: Remote monitoring is a broad concept, while telemetry specifically refers to the automated transmission of quantitative sensor data.
data streaming: Data streaming can refer to any continuous data flow (like video), whereas telemetry is strictly sensor measurements.

Commonly confused with

telecommunication: Telecommunication is the general transmission of signals, signs, writings, images, or sounds, while telemetry is specifically the transmission of measured data.

Word family

telemetric (adjective): Relating to telemetry or remote data transmission.
telemeter (verb): To transmit data automatically from a distance.

Collocations

real-time telemetry
satellite telemetry
telemetry data
transmit telemetry

Example sentences

"The pit crew analyzed the telemetry sent from the race car to monitor tire wear and engine temperature in real time." A report on Formula 1 racing technology.
"Mission control lost telemetry from the rocket for two minutes during its ascent through the upper atmosphere." A news article about a satellite launch.

Memory hook

Think of a 'telescope' measuring things that are 'far' away, and 'meter' as a measuring tool. Telemetry is measuring from far away. Telemetry = Far-off measuring.

When not to use

Do not use for simple local data transfers, like copying a file from a USB drive to a laptop, or manual data reporting.

Fun facts

Wildlife biologists use telemetry by attaching radio collars to animals, allowing them to track migration patterns across entire continents without disturbing the creatures.