FG-3C
The FG-3C is a fully calibrated and linearized 1-axis fluxgate magnetometer designed for precise and stable magnetic field measurements in scientific and industrial applications.
Built on the proven FG-3+ sensing core, the FG-3C provides magnetic field measurements directly in nanotesla (nT) via a digital interface. This eliminates the need for external calibration or complex conversion algorithms and simplifies system integration.
Each sensor is individually factory-characterized and temperature compensated, ensuring high accuracy and repeatable measurements across the operating range.
Key Features
- Fully calibrated and linearized magnetic field output
- Direct magnetic field readings in nanotesla (nT)
- Built on the FG-3+ fluxgate sensing core
- Factory characterized for accuracy and repeatability
- Temperature compensated for stable measurements
- Multiple output interfaces
- Backward compatibility with existing FG systems
Measurement Range
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Field Range | −60 µT to +60 µT |
| Linearity | Across full range |
| Temperature Compensation | Yes |
The sensor is designed for geomagnetic measurements and low-field industrial applications.
Electrical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 5 V ±0.25 V |
| Current Consumption | ~35 mA |
| Recommended Supply | Linear power supply |
| Default Data Refresh Rate | 100 ms (10 Hz) |
Incorrect polarity will permanently damage the sensor electronics.
Output Interfaces
The FG-3C provides multiple output options to support different integration environments.
UART Digital Output
The digital interface provides magnetic field values directly in physical units.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Baud Rate | 115200 bps |
| Data Format | xxxxxx nT |
| Output Pin | D_OUT (TX) |
The UART output allows direct connection to microcontrollers or embedded systems.
Analog Output
Analog voltage output is provided for integration with ADCs and data acquisition systems.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Pin | A_OUT |
| Output Range | 0.5 V to 3.0 V |
| Magnetic Field Mapping | +60 µT → 0.5 V |
| −60 µT → 3.0 V |
The output is linear across the full measurement range.
Frequency / PWM Output
For compatibility with legacy systems, the FG-3C also supports frequency output similar to the FG-3+ sensor.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Signal Type | PWM |
| Amplitude | 5 V |
| Duty Cycle | 50% |
| Frequency Range | 30 kHz to 130 kHz |
| Magnetic Field | Frequency |
|---|---|
| +60 µT | ~30 kHz |
| −60 µT | ~130 kHz |
The output is linear across the full measurement range.
Pinout
| Pin | Signal | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | +5V | Power supply input |
| 2 | A_OUT | Analog output |
| 3 | GND | Ground |
| 4 | D_OUT | Frequency output / UART TX |
UART Mode Configuration
To enable UART output:
- Cut the PCB trace under the SELECT jumper
- Bridge the jumper to the opposite side
- Pin D_OUT becomes UART TX output
Only one side of the SELECT jumper must be connected. Both sides must not be connected simultaneously.
Error Indication
Hardware outputs provide built-in fault indicators.
| Output Mode | Fault Condition |
|---|---|
| Frequency Output | 0 kHz indicates malfunction |
| Analog Output | 0 V indicates malfunction |
These conditions should be treated as error signals by the host system.
Typical Applications
Geomagnetic Monitoring
- geomagnetic observatories
- aurora detection systems
- space weather monitoring
Scientific Research
- laboratory magnetometers
- magnetic field experiments
- environmental monitoring
Industrial Applications
- magnetic field instrumentation
- precision measurement systems
- automated inspection systems
Integration
The FG-3C can be integrated with:
- microcontrollers (UART)
- data acquisition systems
- embedded systems
- FGA Logger systems
- custom magnetometer electronics
Because the sensor outputs direct magnetic field values in nanotesla, system integration is significantly simpler than with raw fluxgate sensors.
Related Products
- FG-3+ Sensor — raw frequency-output fluxgate sensor
- Paired FG-3+ Sensors — matched sensors for gradiometer systems
- Converter Circuit Board — interface electronics for FG-3+ sensors
- MAG-BOARD — magnetometer signal processing electronics