Loading... Please wait...The MagnetoPot is a contactless linear potentiometer used for liquid level and other harsh applications. This innovative sensor allows designers to retroactively assemble the sensor on the outside of pneumatic and hydraulic cylinders, which connects with the internal magnet of the cylinder. This allows the cylinder to produce linear output and at the same time avoid the internal liquids and grease common to cylinders. Alternatively, the Magnetopot can be affixed to the outside of a liquid tank or directly next to the motion device, creating an almost imperceptible drag and giving linear output for the complete motion without contact. Cycle testing has rated the MagnetoPot over 1 million cycles, and up to 85C. It is elegant but robust, a contactless design which allows for space sensitive requirements, penetration of walls, and longevity in action.
The MagnetoPot uses an internal and external magnet to make pressure on the pot, indicating the position. This unique setup allows linear position in very harsh environments such as hydraulic actuators and liquid environments. Because there is an embedded magnet, this pot is a bit thicker than the other membrane potentiometers. The MagnetoPot comes with a magnet internally, but you will need to provide your own magnet externally.
Unit comes with adhesive backing. Connector is 0.1" spaced and bread board friendly.
Specifications:
Dimensions: Thickness is 0.096" or 2.44mm
There's a really great video on the manufacturer's website:
http://www.spectrasymbol.com/magnetopots
According to the datasheet below you require .11lb to .09lb pull force at the desired distance(magnet using a test plate of cold rolled steel)
Documents:
Posted by Ewan on 6th Jul 2011
We have added a link to the manufacturers website which has an excellent video showing how this device can be used.
Posted by Charly on 4th Jul 2011
I've found it difficult to obtain useful readings from this sensor.
The sensor operates by the magnet within the unit being pulled along the track in response to an external magnet, which causes the internal magnet to bridge the resistance tracks at that point to change the sensor's resistance.
The main problem with this is its very tricky to make the internal magnet move smoothly along the track, the tenancy is for it to slightly stick and then bounce along the track. The net effect is I find the readings at rest vary by large amounts making it too unreliable to use.
From reading other user's experience of using this sensor, the trick seems to be to use an external magnet of the right shape and mounting so it can roll along the track, which allows the internal magnet ball to roll rather than be scratched along the resistive track. I've not been able to try this for myself yet though.