Hello, I'm wanting to detect the position of an automatic transmission shift lever to activate a 16 segment single character display. An array of reed switches would serve, but I'm wondering if this could also be done using an opto device with separated primary and secondary, the led to be attached to the shift lever. Is there something available that I might use?

Orville

 

You would probably run into ambient light problems or dirt crudding up the transmitter or receiver. Magnets and reed relays are probably more suited for the application. The magnet will not need wires led to it for power, either.

 

Good points, thanks.

Orville

 

Hello, I'm wanting to detect the position of an automatic transmission shift lever to activate a 16 segment single character display. An array of reed switches would serve, but I'm wondering if this could also be done using an opto device with separated primary and secondary, the led to be attached to the shift lever. Is there something available that I might use?

Orville

I'm confused. Optocouplers have primaries and secondaries?