AMR Sensors FAQQWhat are the key points in distinguishing AMR sensors from Hall effect sensors?

• The detection directions of magnetic fields are different. In a Hall effect sensor, when the magnet is directly above the sensor, the axis between the north and south poles of the magnet is perpendicular to the sensor. In an AMR, it is parallel to the sensor.
• Because the magnetic force is strong near the north and south poles of the magnet, when credit card or other magnetic data is near, it could affect the card data. And so, AMR sensors are advantageous when the magnet will not be placed perpendicularly in electronic devices such as smartphones and notebook PCs. (This does not mean that magnetic data is not lost when a horizontal placement is used.)
• When the magnet position cannot be changed significantly, the AMR sensor can be turned off by the direction of the magnetic force lines. This can be used for applications in switches with extremely short strokes and in rotation detection.

For details, see Differences Between AMR Sensors (Magnetic Switches) and Other Systems.

Fundamentals of magnetic sensors: differences between AMR sensors (magnetic switches) and Hall effect sensors