Honeywell Sensing and Control

FAQs - Magnetic Position Sensors

SR13/SR15 Series

Q

What are the SR13/SR15 Series position sensors?

The SR13 series position sensor is a solid state, low cost, snap in sensor that produces either a digital or analog output when actuated. The SR15 sensor has the same rectangular package design but does not incorporate the snap, or locating pin on the bottom of the package. For further information, please refer to the SR13/SR15 product sheet.(pdf document)

Q

What is the catalog nomenclature for the SR13 and SR15 sensors?

The SR13 and SR15 can accept multiple product configurations based on the SS400 series Hall Effect packages and also the TD5 temperature sensor. In addition custom wire length and connectors can be specified based on high volume opportunities. The following chart details possible sensing component combinations for either the SR13 or SR15 that can be set up based on opportunity:

SR13C = SS443A
SR13D = SS441A
SR13E = SS411A
SR13F = SS449A
SR13R = SS461A
SR13S = SS495A
TD13A = TD5A

For further information on any of the above listings that are not set up, please contact your local Honeywell Sensing and Control sales office.

Q

How do SR13/15 sensors work?
What technology is being used?

Honeywell solid state Hall effect position sensors produce either a digital or analog output. Digital output sensors are in one of two states — on or off. Analog sensors provide a continuous voltage output which increases with a strong magnetic field and decreases with a weak magnetic field.

There are two types of digital sensors, bipolar and unipolar. Bipolar sensors require positive gauss (south pole) to operate and negative gauss (north pole) to release. Unipolar sensors require a single magnetic pole (south) to operate. Release is obtained by moving the south pole away from the sensor. Analog sensors operate by proximity to either magnetic pole. Digital and analog sensor devices are operated by the magnetic field from a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. Actuation mode depends on the type of magnets used.

Q

Applications–where are the SR13/15 sensors most likely to be used?

Sensors are best used in devices requiring valve position sensing, robotics control, linear or rotary motion detection, length measurement, flow sensing, RPM sensing, and security systems

These sensors can be used in the following applications: utility meters, fitness equipment, water softeners, gasoline pumps, balance scales, interlocks, flowmeters, vending machines, home appliances, computer equipment, medical instruments, copy machines, and office equipment

Q

What are some of the new and unique features of the SR13/15 sensors?

The SR13/15 Series package enhancements permit quick and easy sensor installation, increasing the usability of the SS400 Series. These devices can be installed without additional mounting hardware. The snap-in and flat mount sensor packages can house any of the present SS400 Series sensors or any similarly sized sensing elements. The packages also provide varying 24AWG Radox leadwire lengths or connector capabilities. The SS400 Series position sensors have a thermally balanced integrated circuit that provides predictable performance for the –40癈 to +150癈 operating temperature range. The SS400 Series band gap regulation provides stable operation over 3.8 to 30 VDC. Current consumption is 10 mA at +40癈 ambient temperature. SS400 Series sensors are capable of continuous 20 mA sinking output. The sensors may be cycled as high as 50 mA maximum. Bipolar, unipolar and latching magnetics are available.

Q

What are the advantages in using the SR13/15 sensors?

The following list details some of the benefits in using the SR13/15 Series products:

Benefits/Customer Value

  •  No contacts to wear out or stick
  •  Resistant to shock and vibration
  •  Robust switching
  •  Increased reliability
  •  Solid State alternative to reed switch technology
  •  Snap eliminates additional mounting hardware
  •  Low profile package saves space in a size conscious industry
  •  Operating temperature range –40癈 to +150癈
  •  Allows flexibility in circuit design and multiple sensing technologies in the same package style

SR16/SR17 Series

Q

What are the new SR16/SR17 Series vane position sensors?

The SR16/SR17 series hall effect sensors are designed to detect the presence, (or absence), of a ferrous vane, or flag. They offer 3 termination variations and two distinct package styles. The cost effective sensors are designed for fitness and information technology use in position and speed sensing applications where moderate exposure to electrical, chemical and mechanical environments can be expected. For further information, please refer to our product family page.

Q

What is the catalog nomenclature for the SR16 and SR17 Series vane position sensors?

Presently the SR16 and SR17 Series have four assigned catalog listings:
  •  SR16C-J4: vertical dual tower with attached printed circuit board and wire exit parallel to the mounting plane.
  •  SR16C-J6: vertical dual tower with wires exiting 90 degrees from the mounting plane.
  •  SR16C-N: vertical dual tower with solder dipped leads on 1.27 mm (0.050 inch) centers for printed circuit board mounting.
  •  SR17C-J6: side looker dual tower for horizontal mounting with wires exiting from the back of the sensor parallel to the mounting plane.

Q

How do the SR16 and SR17 Series vane position sensors work?
What technology is being used?

The SR16/SR17 Series vane position sensors contain an internally mounted magnet in one tower and a Hall effect sensor in the parallel tower. When the sensor is in the power on state, the magnet’s lines of flux saturate the Hall effect sensor and bias it to the on state. When a ferrous target is passed through the gap between the magnet and sensor, the magnetic field is interrupted and the sensor switches to an off state. For more detailed information on vane sensor technology click here, Hall-based Sensing Devices.(requires Adobe Acrobat Reader).

Q

Where are SR16/SR17 sensors most likely to be applied?

Typical applications:
  •  Fitness equipment
  •  Post office bin indicators
  •  Conveyor indicators
  •  Appliance lid sensors
  •  Security door latch indicators
  •  Copiers
  •  Printers
  •  Computer storage devices
  •  Hospital beds
  •  Infustion Pumps
  •  RPM sensors
  •  Low cost proximity sensing

Q

What are some of the new and unique features of the SR16/17 Series vane position sensors?

The products offer a very robust package that can be used for speed sensing, position sensing or as a travel interrupter through the use of a ferrous vane, or flag. By using solid state Hall effect technology, the product will not be susceptible to humidity, dust or IR light interference. The choice of multiple packaging styles allow the customer to choose the best mounting and position sensing direction for their requirements.

Q

What are the advantages in using the SR16/17 Series vane position sensors?

Benefits/Customer Value

  •  Functions in moderate electrical, chemical & mechanical environments
  •  Magnet & sensor incorporated in same rugged package
  •  Repeatable performance in environments where dirt, dust or stray IR light might affect optic sensors
  •  Medium level magnetic switching to reduce stray field interference
  •  Choice of flying leads, connector or pin termination
  •  Choice of vertical or horizontal mounting
  •  Less wire terminations when compared to optical components