Red Seal Electrician Practice
Wiring and componentsQuestion 60 of 1506

Which proximity switch can detect a metal part that is not magnetic?

  1. One that uses a permanent magnet to close a sealed contact near a part
  2. One that uses a bimetal strip to sense the heat of a metal part
  3. One that uses a bulb filled with gas to feel the pressure of a part
  4. An electronic one that senses current change in a coil, like a metal detector
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Correct answer: An electronic one that senses current change in a coil, like a metal detector

The simple magnetic type only works with a magnet. The electronic type senses any metal.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits IV: Digital (Kuphaldt), 4.1: Switch Types

Practice wiring and components

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026