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Proximity sensor

A proximity sensor detects an object when the object approaches within the detection boundary of the sensor. Proximity sensors are used in various facets of manufacturing for detecting the approach of metal objects. Various types of proximity sensors are used for detecting the presence or absence of an object. The design of a proximity sensor can be based on a number of principles of operation, some examples include: variable reluctance, eddy current loss, saturated core, and Hall effect. Depending on the principle of operation, each type of sensor will have different performance levels for sensing different types of objects. Common types of non-contact proximity sensors include inductive proximity sensors, capacitive proximity sensors, ultrasonic proximity sensors, and photoelectric sensors. Hall-effect sensors detect a change in a polarity of a magnetic field. Variable reluctance sensors typically include a U-type core and coils wound around the core legs. Inductive proximity sensors have a lossy resonant circuit (oscillator) at the input side whose loss resistance can be changed by the proximity of an electrically conductive medium. An electrical capacitance proximity sensor converts a variation in electrostatic capacitance between a detecting electrode and a ground electrode caused by approaching the nearby object into a variation in an oscillation frequency, transforms or linearizes the oscillation frequency into a direct current voltage, and compares the direct current voltage with a predetermined threshold value to detect the nearby object. Ultrasonic sensing systems provide a much more efficient and effective method of longer range detection. These sensors require the use of a transducer to produce ultrasonic signals. Eddy-current proximity sensors are well known and operate on the principle that the impedance of an ac-excited electrical coil is subject to change as the coil is brought in close proximity to a metallic object. Proximity sensors often are employed in manufacturing industries in which the sensors are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Inductive proximity sensors are used in automation engineering to define operating states in automating plants, production systems and process engineering plants. Magnetic proximity detectors are commonly used on ski lifts and tramways for detecting a derope condition of the steel cable used as a haul line or haul rope. Proximity sensors are widely used in the automotive industry to automate the control of power accessories. For instance, proximity sensors are often used in power window controllers to detect the presence of obstructions in the window frame when the window pane is being directed to the closed position.

Proximity sensor categories

Capacitive proximity sensor (0)

Eddy current proximity sensor (0)

Fiber optic proximity sensor (0)

Hall effect proximity sensor (0)

Inductive proximity sensor (0)

Proximity sensor product listings

Ultra Mini High Performace Proximity Sensors

MEDER electronic's MK24 series Reed Sensors achieve a minimum life expectancy of 50 million operations at 5V, 5mA, 100Hz while measuring only 5mm x 1.8mm x 2.2mm. At 50 millions operations, the MK24's base reed switch, a 4mm KSK-1A04 unequivocally surpassed all other reed switches in its size class. The MK24 reed sensor is a hermetically sealed switch in a robust thermoset molded package. This tiny energy saving device requires no external power to operate.

Custom Value Add Proximity Sensor Products

Magnetic Reed Switches can be customized for your design needs. Some customization includes sorting specific magnetic sensitivity pull-in ranges and cutting and/or bending the Reed contact leads for either horizontal or vertical surface mount applications or other special mounting requirements. Proper handling and manufacturing technique as well as specialized equipment are essential to producing high quality Reed Products.

Threaded Mount Proximity Sensors

The MK11 Series offers sensor mounting convenience with its built-in threaded portal. Used in limit switching, end position, and proximity switching applications, these MK11 Reed Sensors are offered in plastic, stainless steel, and now a new brass version. This new brass version of our MK11 is more robust and resilient to harsh conditions. They are an affordable and excellent choice for all applications requiring flexible sensing adjustment and multiple switching options.

Flange Screw Mount Proximity Sensors

REED SENSORS REPLACE MECHANICAL SWITCHES The Rectangular Flange Mount Reed Sensors offer billions of reliable switching operations in wet and dirty applications. These magnetically operated reed proximity switches are waterproof and can be mounted almost anywhere, making them suitable replacements for mechanical switches. MEDER's Reed Sensor series MK02, MK04, MK05, MK09, MK12, MK13 and MK21 are magnetically operated reed proximity switches constructed in hermetically sealed packages.

7 Surface Mount Proximity Sensor Series

Seven series of compact surface mount reed sensors that require no external power for detecting movement and fluid levels in consumer products such as coffee makers, and automotive, medical, security, and telephone hook switch applications are sealed in a rugged thermoset molded package. MEDER SMD Reed Sensors are magnetically operated proximity sensors used to detect movement.

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