Semiconductor Temperature Sensors:
Semiconductors have a number of parameters that vary linearly with temperature and they form the core of today’s electronic temperature sensors. Normally the reference voltage of a zener diode or the junction voltage variations are used for temperature sensing. Transistors or diodes can also be used for temperature measurement. The outputs of these semiconductor devices are very linear and are good fortemperature sensing within a narrow range. Semiconductor temperature sensors have a limited operating range from –50°C to 150°C.

Advantages:
They are very linear with accuracies of ±1°C or better.
Their electronics can be integrated onto the same die as the sensor giving high sensitivit
They can be easily interfaced with control systems, making different digital output configurations possible.
They have a good thermal time constants which varies from 1 to 5 s.
Semiconductor devices are rugged with good longevity
They are inexpensive.
For the above reasons the semiconductor sensor is used extensively in many applications including the replacement of the mercury in glass thermometer in industrial applications.

Disadvantages:
    Internal dissipation can cause up to 0.5°C offset resulting in errors in temperature measurement
    Limited range of operation
    Limited range of operation

Comparison of Temperature Sensors
Whether it is a thermocouple, an RTD, a semiconductor temperature sensor, filled bulb sensor or a thermistor, they all have their place in  industrial temperature measurement. The choice of any given temperature transmitter sensor depends on the following factors and many more:
Range of operation in the particular application
Application environment
Degree of accuracy of the temperature measurement required
Thermal time constant of the sensor
Linearity of the sensor
Cost of sensor
Remote indication capability
Error correction capability
Ease of calibration
Vibration sensitivity
Size of sensor
Longevity
Maintenance requirements
Sensitivity /response of sensor etc.