magnetic field measurement with an RF oscillator

[Joop]

I want to measure a magnetic field and for various reasons (drift, offset, temperature sensitivity and noise) I can't use a HAL-sensor or a magneto-resistive sensor. So I am thinking about using the properties of ferroxcube to measure the field.

From what I have read, the magnetic properties of ferroxcube changes when a magnetic field is applied. So I could build an RF oscillator and measure it's frequency. The oscillator's frequency will then tell me indirectly what the magnetic field strength is.

Has anyone ever tried this?

 

[lavenatti]

Never tried it, but it almost sounds similiar to a metal detector type circuit. Unless the field is constantly changing you're going to have a hard time picking it up your way.

 

[Roff]

Ferroxcube is the name of a company. What is the name of the product you are referring to, and who makes it?

Ron

 

[Joop]

The ferrite material commonly used in coils for HF/VHF oscillators will do. It doesn't need to be ferroxcube. The principle is commonly used in VCO's and is also called a vari-L.