Magnetic sensors include an array of products for applications across the industrial and science sectors, as well as commercial and personal use. All magnetic sensor systems are electronic devices that include either a permanent magnet or an electromagnet as one or more elements.

The uses and forms for magnetic sensors are continually growing. Here is a brief list of the magnetic sensors available:

1. Magnetic position sensors perform many tasks, like the automation magnetic sensor which precisely controls machine movements.

2. Magnetic speed sensors are the basis for speedometers, but also measure motor speeds. Also, magnetic wheel speed sensors are key to anti-lock breaking and traction systems on cars.

3. Recorder heads, like in a computer hard drive, require magneto-resistive magnetic sensors.

4. Magnetic field sensors usually implement semiconductor technology to detect and quantify electromagnetic fields.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase magnetic field sensing equipment from quality magnetic sensor manufacturers

These sensors are almost exclusively for the industrial and scientific community. They play important roles in equipment testing and design, as well as collecting scientific data.

I recommend: Vernier carries electromagnetic field sensors precise enough to measure the earth's gravity. Additionally, they have technical information and a convenient user guide available right off their website. Honeywell deals with nearly all types of sensors and also stands out among magnetic sensor companies. Make sure to take a look at their products as well, for a wide range of applications.

Use a magnetic speed sensor for anything from bikes to industry quality control

Magnetic speed sensors show up everywhere. If you like to bike, try adding a speedometer to monitor your exercise. Speed sensors are also important in automobiles and motor tests, as well as other industrial processes.

I recommend: Sunrise Cyclery has a large selection of bike computers that do more than read out the speed based on a magnetic sensor: they also report distance traveled and calculate calories burned. On the other end of the spectrum is GMW Associates, Inc., which carries raw sensors, often with PCB mounts. These are for industrial applications; for instance, they can measure rotational speed on motor products or machinery.

Buy magnetic position or displacement sensors

Poor machine movement is not only a headache for maintenance crews, it's a problem for the foreman, owner and customer when products lines go down and shipments run late. Magnetic sensors make excellent position sensors.

I recommend: ASM carries a large line of magnetic-based positioning sensors, including the non-contact variety. They also have scales that run by magnetic sensor. Additionally, All Electronics Corporation carries a Hall-effect magnetic position sensor.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When buying a magnetic field sensor, range (in gauss, G), resolution and accuracy are all important specs to consider. Make sure the device you buy exceeds the needs of your applications.