Hall effect position sensors convert energy stored in a magnetic field in to an electrical signal by means of the Hall effect. Hall effect position sensors function via an electrical potential (for example, a voltage) that is developed between the two edges of a current carrying conductor whose faces are perpendicular to an applied current flow and the presence of a magnetic field. The Hall element is the basic magnetic field sensor. It requires signal conditioning to make the output usable for most applications. The signal conditioning electronics needed are an amplifier stage and temperature compensation. Voltage regulation is needed when operating from an unregulated supply. The measurement of proximity, position and displacement of objects is essential in many different applications: valve position, level detection, process control, machine control, security, etc.
Important performance specifications to consider when searching for position sensors, Hall effect include operating distance range, repeatability, various ranges to select from, and minimum target distance. The operating distance range is the absolute maximum range over which the device can provide sensible readings. Devices with various selectable ranges allow the device to be field adjustable. Depending on the technology utilized, proximity sensors may require a minimum target size.
Hall effect position sensors convert energy stored in a magnetic field in to an electrical signal by means of the Hall effect. Hall effect position sensors function via an electrical potential (for example, a voltage) that is developed between the two edges of a current carrying conductor whose faces are perpendicular to an applied current flow and the presence of a magnetic field. The Hall element is the basic magnetic field sensor. It requires signal conditioning to make the output usable for most applications. The signal conditioning electronics needed are an amplifier stage and temperature compensation. Voltage regulation is needed when operating from an unregulated supply. The measurement of proximity, position and displacement of objects is essential in many different applications: valve position, level detection, process control, machine control, security, etc.
Important performance specifications to consider when searching for position sensors, Hall effect include operating distance range, repeatability, various ranges to select from, and minimum target distance. The operating distance range is the absolute maximum range over which the device can provide sensible readings. Devices with various selectable ranges allow the device to be field adjustable. Depending on the technology utilized, proximity sensors may require a minimum target size.
The body style of Hall effect position sensors can be of barrel, limit switch, rectangular or block, slot, or ring style. A barrel style is cylindrical shaped, typically threaded. A limit switch style is similar in appearance to a contact limit switch. The sensor is separated from the switching mechanism. A rectangular or block style is a one piece rectangular or block shaped sensor. A slot style is designed to have the object being sensed to pass through a sensing slot. A ring style is a "donut" shaped sensor, where object passes through center of ring.
Hall effect position sensors can be powered by either DC or AC power depending upon the requirements of the system. The operating temperature range over which the sensor must operate is another important parameter to consider.
