Using JFET as magnetic field sensor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using a JFET (Junction Field Effect Transistor) as a magnetic field sensor, specifically whether a pulsed magnetic field can be used to switch the JFET on and off. The conversation explores concepts related to the Hall effect and the potential for magnetic triggering of FETs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Jason O questions the possibility of using a pulsed magnetic field to switch a JFET on and off, referencing a friend's use of Hall sensors in a circuit.
  • One participant discusses the Hall effect's role in distinguishing between charge carriers but expresses uncertainty about measuring a magnetic field change without separate connections for the gate terminals on the FET.
  • Another participant expresses interest in using a magnetic field as a trigger for the FET, questioning the feasibility of achieving this with a constant magnetic field without additional amplification.
  • Concerns are raised about the need for a changing magnetic field to effectively turn off the FET, suggesting that a simple connection between the gate and drain may not suffice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the feasibility of using a JFET as a magnetic field sensor, with multiple competing views and uncertainties expressed regarding the mechanisms involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations related to the need for changing magnetic fields and the configuration of the FET's gate connections, which remain unresolved.

Jdo300
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Hi,

I am wondering if it is possible to switch a JFET on and off with a pulsed magnetic field. A friend of mine was playing around with a circuit where we was using some Hall sensors to trigger coils on and off. When I asked him for the part numbers for the hall sensors, he told me ECG94. When I looked that up, all I found was something about a voltage regulator and a JFET. Maybe he just misread the package but could it be possible that he is able to magnetically switch his coils on and off using JFETS?

Thanks,
Jason O
 
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i think the Hall effect is useful for differentiating between negative charge carriers with positive mass (electrons) and positive charge carriers with effectively positive mass (holes). unless the two pads for the gate are separately connected to their own terminals on the FET, i am not sure how you would be able to measure a change of magnetic field (that would result in a potential difference between the "top" pad and the "bottom" pad).
 
Actually, if I could, I would be happy with using the magnetic field simply to switch the FET on and off... like a trigger. Is that possible?
 
Jdo300 said:
Actually, if I could, I would be happy with using the magnetic field simply to switch the FET on and off... like a trigger. Is that possible?

i'm not sure how a constant magnetic field could do it without making some kind of amplifier for the measured voltage difference (Hall effect) since, if a coil were just hooked up between the gate and drain, you would need a voltage from a changing magnetic field to turn off an FET.
 

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