Sensors
Omnipolar Hall-Effect Magnetic Position Sensors
Honeywell has announced the SS351AT and SS451A Omnipolar Hall-Effect Digital Position Sensors that can be operated by a North pole or a South pole, eliminating the need for the magnet polarity to be identified, which simplifies installation and can reduce system costs.
The Potential commercial applications include speed and RPM sensing in fitness equipment, magnetic encoder for building access, damper or valve position control in HVAC equipment, flow rate sensing in appliances and water softeners, and printer head position sensing. Potential industrial applications include flow rate sensing in industrial processes, robotic control (cylinder position monitoring), and float-based fluid level sensing. Potential medical applications include displacement sensing in hospital beds and medical equipment, and medical bin monitor on portable drug carts.
The SS351AT and SS451A are very small, versatile sensors operated by the magnetic field from a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. A 3 Vdc to 24 Vdc supply voltage range and the ability to operate up to 150 °C [302 °F] expand application opportunities. Built-in reverse polarity protects the device from potential damage during installation. Their thermally balanced integrated circuit provides stable operation over a wide temperature range.