Robot Magnetic and Compass Sensors

These sensors measure magnetic fields surrounding a device as well as the magnetic fields of the earth. The common applications for these sensors is a compass. A compass is a navigational instrument for determining direction relative to the Earth's magnetic poles. It consists of a magnetized pointer (usually marked on the North end) free to align itself with Earth's magnetic field. The compass greatly improved the safety and efficiency of travel, especially ocean travel. A compass can be used to calculate heading, used with a sextant to calculate latitude, and with a marine chronometer to calculate longitude.