What is a TPMS Gauge?

A tyre gauge is a handheld tool that can be connected to the tyre valve stem to measure the air pressure inside the tyre. A TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) doesn’t require a separate gauge to measure tyre pressure. Instead, TPMS systems use electronic sensors mounted on each wheel to continuously monitor tyre pressure in real time.

These sensors contain highly accurate pressure-sensing components that detect the air pressure inside the tyre. The pressure data is then transmitted wirelessly to a display unit mounted inside the vehicle. This allows the driver to view the pressure of each tyre at a glance without manually checking them.

Due to this, a TPMS provides far more convenience than a handheld pressure gauge. It can also alert the driver immediately if a tyre begins losing pressure or starts overheating.

Tyre Pressure Gauges

Traditional tyre pressure gauges are a simple way to measure tyre pressure. To obtain a reading, the gauge must be connected to the tyre valve stem. Since measurements are only taken when the gauge is used, they provide a single snapshot of tyre pressure rather than continuous, real-time monitoring.

Despite this limitation, a quality tyre pressure gauge is still a valuable tool to have. It can serve as an independent method of verifying TPMS readings, particularly if a sensor is suspected to be faulty or requires recalibration.

SID01 Wireless Sensor Reader

The SID01 is a handheld wireless sensor reader that provides a fast and convenient alternative to both traditional tyre pressure gauges and full TPMS monitoring systems. Once compatible sensors are installed on the tyre valves, the SID01 can retrieve tyre data simply by holding the device close to the sensor and pressing a button.

The tool displays key information including tyre pressure, tyre temperature and sensor battery voltage. This eliminates the need to manually remove valve caps and connect a pressure gauge to each tyre - making routine checks significantly quicker and easier.

In many ways, the SID01 functions like a tyre pressure gauge but with the added advantage of wirelessly reading data directly from the sensor. It’s an ideal solution for users who don’t require real-time monitoring while driving, but still want an easy way to periodically check the condition of their tyres. This makes it particularly useful for caravans, trailers, stored vehicles or fleet inspections where tyre pressures only need to be verified before use rather than monitored constantly on the road.