Standards for galvanomagnetic devices

Abstract

A summary is given of existing and “in-process” standards for galvanomagnetic devices. Controversial items in the IEC standard for Hall effect devices, 47(Secretariat)196, May 1965, are reviewed, and note is made of USA and Japanese comments on this document. Items in the USA Document, 47(USA), September 1965, commenting on 47(Secretariat)196, are reviewed, and particular emphasis is given to items relating to linearity error, particularly as a per cent of reading, to residual voltages, and to sensitivity indices. A summary of items in an “in-process” document for “Standard Definitions and Terminology for Magnetoresistive Devices,” is given. The concept of compatibility between definitions for flux and temperature sensitive resistors (i.e. magnetoresistors, thermistors and photoresistors) is introduced. Some overlapping areas of application are noted. The linear input-output characteristics obtainable from a device which has a square law characteristic are noted and appropriate definitions for both characteristics are introduced. Copies of four documents dealing with standard terminology and definitions for Hall effect devices are included as appendices.