Hall Effect Sensors

Whether you need one for an automotive project or something else entirely, Hall effect sensors are a key component for many engineers. We can equip you with both digital and analog (linear) Hall effect current sensors at a variety of price points.

Many of our sensors have wide operating temperature ranges and a durable design is guaranteed with each model. You can also stock up on switches suited to heavy industrial environments with near-zero speed sensing and high-speed capability.

Browse our range online and start your order today. Have any queries? Simply contact us so we can help you choose the right Hall effect sensor for the job.

How do Hall effect sensors work?

The Hall effect measures magnetism and is named after Edward Hall, who discovered that electricity and magnetism can work together to move objects. The Hall effect refers to the potential difference, known as the Hall voltage, across an electrical conductor when a magnetic field is applied in a direction perpendicular to the flow of current. A Hall effect sensor uses semiconductors, such as silicon, to detect the presence and magnitude of a magnetic field using this theory.

Once a magnetic field is present, a Hall effect sensor can detect the position of objects. Hall effect sensors do this by sensing speed, position, and distance. The findings can be converted into electronic data to be processed by an embedded computer or displayed on an interface. Need more information? We have a more extensive Hall effect sensor guide.

Hall effect probes

A Hall effect probe works alongside a calibrated Hall effect sensor to measure the strength of a magnetic field. The results from a Hall probe will depend on its orientation and position because magnetic fields have both a magnitude and a direction.

What are the benefits of using Hall effect sensors?

Hall effect sensors are cost-effective electronic chips that can be used in several ways for different gadgets.

Hall effect sensors are often used in automotive systems to detect the speed, distance and position of wheels or shafts for anti-lock brake systems, and internal combustion engine ignition timing. They can also be used to measure fuel levels. Hall effect sensors can play a big part when light or optical sensors are compromised by dirt or water.

On top of automotive purposes, there are lots of other examples of Hall effect sensors in use:

• Alerting laptop systems to turn off the screen when the lid is closed
• Locking or disabling smartphones when a case is closed (e.g. a leather flip case)
• Controlling the rotation of and helping protect the rotary spray arm in dishwashers that may be faulty or stuck
• Detecting the rotating speed of a washing machine drum

What are the different types of Hall effect sensors?

Hall effect sensors have either a digital or analog (linear) output, which means they can serve slightly different purposes.

Hall effect sensors with a digital output

You can get bipolar and unipolar Hall effect sensors with a digital output. This is dictated by the magnetic field required to facilitate them. Most digital Hall effect sensors have a small capacity output, so many use an open-collector NPN transistor, which acts as a switch, to combat this.

Bipolar digital Hall effect sensors

A positive magnetic field is needed to operate a bipolar digital Hall effect sensor. This comes from the South pole of a magnet, then a negative field from the North pole of a magnet is needed to release them.

Unipolar digital Hall effect sensors

A single magnetic South pole is needed to operate and release a unipolar digital sensor as they leave and come back into the magnetic field.

Hall effect sensors with an analog (linear) output

Hall effect sensors with analog (linear) sensors have a continuous voltage output. If it's present in a strong magnetic field, this will increase, but if it is in a weaker field, the voltage output will decrease.

How to choose the most suitable Hall effect sensor

When choosing the right Hall effect sensor, probe or switch for your circumstances, you should evaluate the different features you might be looking for. This might include:

• Sensitivity
• Repeatability
• Response time
• How stable it is in different temperatures

You'll need an analog (linear) Hall sensor if the voltage variation is linear. However, if the voltage will go from 0V to 5V, you will need a digital sensor. People also use charts and data sheets to work out the desired output at particular temperatures.

Why choose RS Components for your Hall effect sensor?

We're one of North America's leading distributors of electrical components. You'll have peace of mind knowing that our products and appliances are industry-standard. Choose from top names like SMC, Honeywell, and CHERRY to meet your needs. After finding the product you need, simply place your order online and take advantage of convenient shipping.

If you need help choosing the right Hall effect sensor, simply get in touch with our specialist team. They will give you any further information, should you need it. You can also find industry updates and additional hints and tips on our expert hub that you can use in any practical work you complete, whether it involves machinery or digital communications.