Anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) magnetometers

Abstract

Anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) based magnetometers are used in devices as varied as global positioning systems to provide dead reckoning capability and in automotive ignition systems to provide crankshaft rotational position. Presented are data and methods that can assist in the design and implementation of these systems and a method to design a Helmholtz coil system to test these devices. The transverse and longitudinal behavior of individual AMR sensors along with group (proximity) behavior is addressed with both data and modeling. The design of a 3-axis measurement system goes from basic electromagnetics to the use of COMSOL and the verification of the measurement system using a commercial 3-axis magnetometer.