Utilized as a no-touch method to provide either precise distance measurement to an object or simple “there/not there” logic, proximity sensors span a wide range of technologies, each offering their own set of operating principles, advantages, and drawbacks. Some of the most commonly found technologies in portable or small embedded systems include ultrasonic, photoelectric, laser […]
Proximity
8mm photoelectric, inductive proximity and capacitive proximity sensors
AutomationDirect has added several small sensors to the proximity sensor lineup. New rectangular 8mm x 16mm inductive proximity sensors are available in flush and non-flush mounting options, NO or NC outputs as well as NPN or PNP logic. The new 8mm round capacitive proximity sensors are able to detect materials other than metal, in a […]
ICs for interfacing inductive sensors, Part 2
Designers who use inductive proximity sensors have a choice of high-performance signal-conditioning interface ICs, each offering different sets of features, functions, and capabilities. The first part of this article discussed some of the sensing opportunities and looked at an IC from Texas Instruments. This part looks at ICs from Renesas and Microchip Technology. Renesas IPS2550 […]
What are inductive proximity sensors, Part 2
The first part of this article introduced the inductive proximity sensor. This second and final part looks at some more specifics of this sensor. Q: Are there different architectures and implementations? A: Yes, there are three basic types: 1) the magnetic elements alone are in the sensor. This separates the electronics from the sensing coils […]
What are inductive proximity sensors? Part 1
Non-contact sensing of a nearby object’s linear or rotary position in an electrically and mechanically harsh environment is a common system requirement. There are several ways to meet this objective, including sensors based on the Hall effect, the magnetorestrictive effect, and magnetic coupling. One widely used approach is inductive proximity sensing, which is effective, accurate, […]
ams launches industry’s smallest proximity sensor
News facts: New TMD2636 fully integrated proximity sensor module for True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds is supplied in an ultra-low-profile 0.35mm package and occupies a volume of just 0.7mm3. The sensor draws on ams innovations in optical sensor hardware and software to provide reliable in-ear proximity detection and to save power when the earbud is […]
Battery powered inductive proximity sensor sports 70-ft range
Mercury United Electronics, Inc. announces the release of their complete Inductive Proximity Sensor System that allows operation of the sensor and the transmitter from just two +1.5V AA batteries with a typical transmission range around 70 feet, or 22 meters. The typical total current draw for the combined Inductive Proximity Sensor and RF Transmitter module [MPRF-01] is 5 […]
Wiegand sensors — proximity sensing with extra powers
Wiegand sensors – tiny devices that use variations in an external magnetic field to generate electrical signals and energy – have unique properties that make them a useful option for proximity sensing systems. Wiegand sensors are built around small sections of Wiegand wire, a specially prepared ferromagnetic alloy that has a unique physical property. When […]
Contrinex DW series Proximity Sensors from AutomationDirect
New models of Contrinex DW series round proximity sensors are offered in barrel sizes from 8mm to 30mm. Flush and non-flush mount models are available with standard or extended sensing distances, with complete overload protection. These IP67-rated sensors are made of nickel-plated brass or 304 stainless steel. PNP models are IO Link compatible and are […]
High S/N photodiodes come in 0.2 sq-mm to 1 sq-cm sizes
ActLight announced the expansion of its IP portfolio with the launch of the innovative Stand-Alone Dynamic Photodiode. In addition to the superior signal-to-noise performance, the Stand-Alone Dynamic Photodiode benefits from a unique and patented device structure requiring a very simple, low-cost manufacturing process. Moreover, it offers flexibility in terms of device size, making the Stand-Alone Dynamic […]
