Hall-Effect Sensors, 2nd Edition

Introduction

Among the various sensing technologies used to detect magnetic fields, the Hall effect is perhaps the most widespread and commonly used. Because it is possible to construct high-quality Hall-effect transducers with the standard integrated circuit processes used in the microelectronics industry, and to integrate ancillary signal-processing circuitry on the same silicon die, usable sensors can be fabricated readily and inexpensively. Hundreds of millions of these devices are produced every year for use in a wide variety of applications. A few places where Hall-effect transducers can be found are:

• Automobiles – Ignition timing, antilock braking (ABS) systems,

• Computers – Commutation for brushless fans, disk drive index sensors, ...