Slot car racing tracks Use Reed Sensors

Slot car racing, also known as slot racing, is a competitive hobby involving miniature autos powered and guided by grooves or slots in specially designed tracks. These tracks feature grooves into which pins on the cars fit, providing both power and lap counting functionality. Traditionally, lap counting is achieved by detecting when the car’s pin completes a circuit—typically achieved by a brief loss of power in a designated track section. However, this method leads to wear and tear on both the pins and the tracks themselves over time.

An alternative approach to count laps in slot car racing tracks involves the use of reed sensors embedded in the track and magnets mounted on each car. These sensors detect the magnetic field changes caused by passing magnets, registering each lap completion without direct mechanical contact. This contactless sensing method eliminates the mechanical wear associated with traditional pin-based systems and is capable of accurately counting laps through millions of operations.

Slot car racing enthusiasts appreciate the precision and reliability of reed sensor technology, as it ensures consistent performance without the maintenance concerns of traditional systems. The hobby continues to evolve with technological advancements, enhancing both the enjoyment and competitive spirit of slot car racing competitions worldwide.

Application Classification

Applications are classified as Position Sensing, Pulse Counting, Electromagnetic or Relay, Temperature Sensing or Magnet Biasing types. This application is classified as follows and the link gives more information on best practices to help select the most suitable AT band and matching magnet.

Position sensing Type

When an application requires the end position of a movement sensed, or the sensing of a part when it comes into a zone, or when the Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Recommended Products

The Reed Switches and Sensors used in such slot car racing applications need to be robust, durable and efficient in meeting a high life expectancy. Our engineers work hard in life testing our products under various conditions, and our intention is to ensure end product durability and life. Although we wouldn’t want to restrict any of our products for use in only certain applications, the recommended products for use in this application are listed below.

Micro Miniature Reed Switch, MM-1018

Full Length LeadsCropped LeadsSMD Formed LeadsLeads Formed for Horizontal MountingLeads Formed for Vertical Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Ultra Miniature PCB Mountable Reed Sensor, MS-104

Drawing of MS-104Drawing of MS-104 Pad Layout starFeatures5W Contact Rating. 10.1 mm PCB Pitch. Normally Open contact. Two Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Reduced Miniature Reed Switch, RM-1318

Full Length LeadsCropped LeadsSMD Formed LeadsLeads Formed for Horizontal mountingLeads Formed for Vertical Continue reading -> Sep 29, 2024

Ultra Miniature Cylindrical Magnet Sensor, MS-212

MS-212 Magnet Sensor Drawing starFeatures10W Contact Rating. Normally Open contact. Two sensitivity bands. Sputtered Ruthenium Continue reading -> Sep 28, 2024