Magnetic Switch (Hall Effect Sensor) - AndyMark Standard Sensors

AndyMark’s line of Standard Sensors is designed specifically for FRC and FTC teams. Using standard 1.5” pitch mounting holes, the sensor’s small footprint fits nicely on a 1” wide tube. Easily swap out sensors for reading distance, color, or position using I2C or CAN communication, and head into matches worry-free with locking connectors.

Product Documentation can be found here.

Longer lengths of cable can be found here

The Magnetic Switch is a compact Hall effect sensor designed to reliably detect the presence of a magnet in robotics applications. It’s an ideal solution for teams looking for a durable, repeatable “trigger” sensor that isn’t affected by lighting conditions, dust, or most game element variability.

Whether you’re confirming a mechanism position, detecting a latch state, or verifying a part is in place, the Magnetic Switch gives teams a clean and dependable digital-style sensor signal—perfect for match play.

How to use

Mount the Magnetic Switch so that a magnet passes near the sensing face at the point you want to detect. When the magnet is within range, the sensor changes state and can be used as a limit switch replacement or a general-purpose “presence” detector.

Common setup tips

• Attach a small magnet to the moving part (arm, elevator carriage, latch, etc.).
• Mount the sensor rigidly to the robot frame or mechanism structure.
• Adjust spacing so the magnet passes close enough to trigger consistently, even with vibration.
• Use the sensor state to trigger actions like stopping motion, indexing, or locking a subsystem.

When to use this sensor

• Detecting mechanism end-of-travel (limit switch replacement).
• Confirming position reached (elevator levels, arm angles, turret home, etc.).
• Detecting latch / lock / gate state using a magnet on the moving piece.
• Verifying game piece presence when a magnet can be embedded in a carrier or pusher.
• Creating reliable “home” signals for zeroing and auto routines.

Typical integrations

• Mount on an elevator to detect the bottom/home position for auto-zeroing.
• Use on an arm pivot to detect a stowed or scoring position.
• Place on a turret to detect a home index for absolute reference.
• Install on a latch mechanism to confirm locked/unlocked state.
• Add to an intake/indexer gate to confirm a door/flap position without contact wear.