“Two Diverse Magnetic Sensing Solutions Have Key Features for Specific Applications”
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Introduction
Two Diverse Magnetic Sensing Solutions; One Key Difference
Power Efficiency Shifts Magnetic Sensing Technologies
Both Sensing Technologies Address Specific Uses
Conclusion
Additional Resources
Introduction
Demand for reed switches has risen largely in the recent past due to new power usage standards. Reed switch technology uses no power in its passive state, making it a suitable magnetic sensing alternative to Hall effect sensors. Especially, uses where low power consumption is key.
The reed switches center magnetic lobes activate when the magnet is in a parallel position. Moving the magnet parallel to the reed switch creates a single open and closure.
Two Diverse Magnetic Sensing Solutions; One Key Difference
Reed and Hall effect technologies use different design concepts. Both switch types operate using an external magnetic field. However, Hall effect still requires an electrical circuit to operate and produce an output signal in the passive state. On the other hand, reed switches consume no power and only operate in the presence of a magnetic field. Therefore, one key difference between the two magnetic sensing technologies is their power efficiency.
Hall effect sensors have electrical current flowing through a conductor. A magnetic field positioned perpendicular to the direction of current causes change in current. The change in current activated the Hall Effect.
Power Efficiency Shifts Magnetic Sensing Technologies
“Demand for reed switch sensors has risen greatly in light of Germany’s energy transition and the need to prioritize energy efficiency,” says Martin Reizner, Product Manager Magnetic Position Sensors EMEA.
Reizner does not see this trend coming to an end any time soon. “More and more sensor manufacturers are selecting reed technology for reducing power consumption.” Home appliances and battery-powered devices are making the biggest shift to reed switch technology. In other words, reed switches are quickly becoming the new magnetic sensing technology of choice for low power designs.
Both Sensing Technologies Address Specific Uses
The reality is: “Both sensing technologies have their own specific uses,” Reizner adds. He believes that Hall effect sensors are better suited to high-speed detection above 1 kHz. Where the reed switch meets its physical operating limits. Conversely, Reizner recommends reed switches for switching below 1 kHz such as with flow meters.
Hysteresis Improves Water Flow Detection
Hysteresis is the difference between the open and closure points of the switch; unique to reed technology. Defining switch hysteresis in specific applications gives reed switches another advantage over Hall effect sensors. The below example explains how hysteresis is used in a water flow meter.
- Example: Let’s say the reed switch contacts close at a pre-defined pull-in point of 5 mm from the magnet. And the contacts open or drop-out at 7 mm. Then the switch hysteresis equals 2 mm. In other words, 5 mm / 7 mm = 0.71 x 100 % = 71 % meaning the switch will activate at 71% of its release point
The hysteresis example shows the switch closes at 5mm and opens at 7mm. 2mm is the difference defined as the hysteresis.
Using Switch Hysteresis in Water Flow
A water flow meter with a paddle wheel is one example where a given hysteresis value may be set. Random water waves or vibration can cause the paddle wheel to move slightly. As a result, the paddle’s movement would activate the sensor. In turn, causing a false water flow detection. Defining the switch hysteresis will ensure the water flow reaches a set rate before the sensor activates. In conclusion, only reed switch hysteresis can prevent false water flow readings. Inversely, Hall effect sensors activate or deactivate with any water movement.
A reed sensor detects water flow when the paddle wheel with magnet moves within the switch hysteresis.
World’s Smallest Reed Switches
Reed switches are made of simple mechanical elements which are cost effective to produce compared with Hall effect sensors. Hall sensors are much harder to make. Additional external switches and amplification circuitry is needed. As well as, temperature stability, short-circuit protection and power consumption.
However in terms of small size, Hall effect sensors take the lead over reed sensors. Though, Standex Electronics now produces the smallest reed switch in the world that is just under 4 mm long. As a result, compact reed switch sensor designs now compete with miniature Hall effect sensors.
Magnetic Sensors Reliability Perform in Harsh Environments
Reed switch technology performs reliably in harsh environments. The hermetically sealed glass envelope protects the reed switch from the environment. In other words, dust, oil, water, chemicals, and corrosion will not affect the sensors operation. Moreover, reed switches perform reliably in extreme hot or cold temperatures of -65°C to +150°C. In contrast, Hall effect sensors have tighter operating range of -55°C to +125°C.
Magnetic Isolation
Reed switches don’t require any protection against electromagnetic discharge (ESD). So, reed switches will not magnetically interfere with nearby system electronics. Inversely, Hall effect sensors require magnetic isolation because they use a constant power supply to emit an output signal. Furthermore, special ESD protection is needed to prevent current leakage.
Contact Resistance
Finally, a reed switch’s insulation resistance is higher than 10^15 Ohms exceeding that of a Hall effect. Reed switches still produce leakage currents in the low femptoamp range. Values so minor however they don’t apply to medical devices. In summary, simple reed switches measure tiny voltages and operate at low 50 mΩ contact resistance. Well below what a Hall effect can achieve.
Moreover, reed switches have a wide operating range by design. Switching loads ranging from nanovolts (nV) to kilovolts (kV), from femptoamp to amps and up to 10 GHz. Even the smallest reed switches isolate up to 1,000 volts without ESD protection.
Conclusion
In summary, both switch types have their own specific uses depending on the sensing application. Reed switches are diverse in size, sensitivity, and hysteresis. All which can be altered for a given application. While Hall sensors can be programmed to overcome weakness, reed switches are more versatile and energy efficient.
Hall effect sensors are work well in high-speed RPM switching above 1 kHz. Additionally, Halls reach higher signal repeatability due to a lack of switch hysteresis. That said, Hall switches operate 500 million cycles in their lifetime. Though, reed switches can switch billions of cycles under 5 volt loads.
Standex Electronics is a magnetic sensing expert. We specialize in custom design to meet your complex sensing needs. Contact our engineers today to provide you with the optimal sensor for your specific needs.
Additional Resources
Learn more about our low power switching solutions in our Application Alley.
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