August 15, 2007–Duncan Electronics, a company of Custom Sensors & Technology (CST), Inc., has introduced the 9360 Non-Contacting Rotary Dual Output Hall Effect Sensor.  Designed with Duncan ’s second generation Hall effect chip technology, the new device features 360 degrees rotation capabilities to meet a broad range of rotary position sensing needs in specialty vehicles.

The 9360 combines the superior durability of Duncan ’s existing 9900 sensor technology with the new Hall effect technology that allows 360º of absolute position feedback and infinite rotation. These capabilities expand on Duncan ’s proven high performance dual Hall effect electronics that were previously limited to 120 degrees of rotation. With its infinite rotation capabilities, the new sensor is particularly well-suited for high-vibration applications in heavy equipment, off-highway, marine and industrial markets. Specific uses include throttle control and brake pedals, wheel positioning for tractors, farm implement position feedback and forklift position sensing.

The 9360 incorporates compression molded, rotating Neodymium disk magnet. By using a high quality magnet, Duncan can provide a strong magnetic field that offers exceptionally high accuracy and reliability. The unit’s integrated Hall effect chip is enclosed in a liquid tight, fully sealed package that meets and/or exceeds protection seal class IP66/IP67.  An integrally molded 6-pin connector makes the sealed connection with industry standard Packard Electric Metri-Pack connector for easy plug-in installation. The resulting combination of the Neodymium magnet, sealed packaging and robust construction offer excellent temperature stability and corrosion resistance in an extremely durable package capable of withstanding extremely harsh environments.

Other outstanding performance characteristics include an electrical angle of 0-359.9 degrees and an operating temperature range of -40 to +85°C (-40 to 185°F) with a wider temperature range of up to 125°C (257°F) available optionally. Accuracy is ±0.6% of full scale at room temperature and ±0.9% of full scale over the entire temperature range. The rugged device can withstand 10Gs vibration, 20-2,000 Hz; 50Gs shock, and half sine pulse of 5msec duration.  Completely independent dual outputs optimize redundancy and maximize safety. Measuring just 25.8mm x 41.1mm x 50.7mm (HxWxL), the small form factor package meets the compact size requirements for space-critical installations. The sensor is manufactured in Duncan ’s ISO9001 and TS16949 certified manufacturing facility.

“The introduction of the 9360 significantly broadens our market opportunities,” says Paul Cain, CST’s Director of Marketing. “With a sensor capable of 360 degrees rotation, we can now meet many steering application requirements that were previously unapproachable. For the first time, customers can now order 360 degree programmability with the traditional durability characteristics that they have come to expect from Duncan ,” adds Cain. “And while traditional potentiometer sensor technology can provide extended electrical angles beyond 120 degrees, customers have asked for this capability with the benefits non-contacting technology offers – the result is the new 9360.”

For the first time, Duncan is offering the 9360 in both analog and PWM outputs that are factory programmed for greater flexibility in creating custom electrical angle outputs. Custom (narrower angle) outputs (or single output) are also available optionally. The new sensor extends the company’s existing line of non-contacting NCAPS, Hall effect and potentiometer position sensors. Pricing for the 9360 is from $23.00 each in production quantities with delivery in 8 weeks for standard products.

For further information, contact Duncan Electronics, 170 Technology Drive, Irvine, CA 92618-2401, Tel: (949) 341-9500; Fax: (949) 453-2700, E-mail: sales @beiduncan.com.