Infrared sensors, proximity sensors, magnetic lights, magnetic switches, and proximity switches—these terms might be giving you an idea about the future of our information technology. But actually, these terms are no longer limited to sci-fi movies and novels. We are living with them—in fact, corporation systems have been living with them. Thanks to the discovery of the magnetic field, humans have enjoyed nature’s gift. But for us to clearly understand what the magnetic field tells us, humans use a special device called a magnetic sensor.
You might have already heard about sensor switches or circuits with a magnetic sensor and even an alarm dictated by this same sensor. But, just like many other people, you don’t know what this sensor is.
Defining Magnetic Sensor
In its simplest sense, a magnetic sensor is used to detect any changes as well as disturbances in a certain magnetic field.
A magnetic field is one that is invisibly surrounded by electric currents and magnetic materials. Although invisible, a magnetic field can be detected through the force that this exerts on some magnetic materials as well as electric charges. With this force, a magnetic field can be specified by its magnitude/strength and direction.
Magnetic fields are anywhere. In fact, we are living in the world’s magnetic field. But smaller-scale magnetic fields are also available, like those found in our computers.
The importance of a magnetic field is realized only because of the magnetic sensor. Without it, there is no way that we can determine the direction and strength of the magnetic field. Discovery about it will be useless if we can’t even benefit from it.
Common Applications
The main usages of magnetic fields and magnetic sensors are in industrial applications, navigation, and scientific measurement. Here are some of the common applications of magnetic sensors:
- Compass. The magnetic field of the Earth dictates the direction of the compass’ arrow. That is why you can never be lost with a working compass.
- Geophysical exploration. Again, the Earth’s magnetic field is used.
- Non-destructive testing. This tests the durability of physical constructions like bridges.
- Medical evaluation. Microscopy and other medical devices make use of a magnetic sensor.
- Data Storage. The drivers of hard disks and RAM use magnetic sensors.
- Media. This includes the cassette tapes, digital audiotapes, hand-held telephone, answering machines, flight recorders, discs, and videotapes.
Different Types of Magnetic Sensor
There may be different applications for the magnetic sensor. But to make this work, the right type of magnetic sensor should only be used.
- Magnetoresistive sensor. This device measures the electrical resistance when it functions for an ambient field.
- Coil sensor. This is used to measure the differences in the magnetic field present at the end of a specific vertical rod. It plots the magnetic field information on its grid.
- Hall effect magnetic sensor. This is used in converting the stored energy in the magnetic field to an electrical signal. It does this by developing voltage between these two.
- Magnetoinductive sensor. This is composed of coils surrounding a ferromagnetic core.
- Proton precision magnetic sensor. This device makes use of methanol and kerosene.
The infrared sensors, magnetic switch, and proximity sensors that only James Bond and the Mission: Impossible team were using are now being used by common people—and in real life. Thanks to the development in magnetic sensor. It’s like we have decoded a very important clue of nature.
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