Hall effect position sensor gives maximum performance in extreme environments

Christchurch, UK – November 2008 – Penny + Giles has launched an upgrade to its popular SRH280 contactless rotary position sensor. The new SRH280P incorporates a factory programmable Hall effect rotary sensor to provide reliable and accurate rotary measurement in extreme motorsport environments, such as steering position monitoring, throttle position sensing and suspension feedback. The sensor is also highly suited to a wide range of other industrial applications.

Unlike potentiometer sensors, the SRH280P can operate in high dither vibration conditions with no deterioration of the sensing element due to the non-contacting operating principle. As a result it offers maximum performance in a variety of high duty cycle applications on racing vehicles, including single-seat cars, sports cars, touring cars and motorcycles. With no electrical sliding contacts SRH280P offers an almost limitless sensor life.

SRH280P operates from either a 5Vdc regulated or 9-30Vdc unregulated power supply and for ease of configuration, is available with analogue (0.5 to 4.5Vdc) or digital (Pulse Width Modulated) signal output. The sensor is factory programmable, allowing customers to specify the output signal type, the measurement range and output direction. The sensor can be supplied programmed with any one of 341 different angles from 0-20° to 0-360° in one degree increments and can also be programmed to have a rising or falling output with clockwise shaft rotation. The sensor has a 12 bit resolution (0.025%) over the selected measuring range, with a low output signal noise (1mV rms).

SRH280P uses the popular 28mm diameter flanged, dust-proof and waterproof, corrosion resistant polymer housing with a protection rating to IP68. It has an integral moulded cable assembly that negates the need for a heat-shrinkable boot. Crush-proof mounting flanges feature steel inserts which protect the casing from the possibility of damage from over-tightened mounting bolts. As a result, it can be repositioned as many times as necessary, unlike traditional designs which often have to be discarded after only one use. There is a choice of a D-shaped or ‘sprung ear’ shaft, both compatible with existing de-facto industry standards for straightforward inter-changeability on existing equipment.

When powered at 5Vdc the sensor operates reliably in a temperature range of -40ºC to +140ºC.