C.2.2 optical sensors, C.2.3 magnetic reluctor sensors – Haltech IG5 User Manual
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C.2.2 Optical Sensors
 
Optical sensors are often used in original equipment and may be directly connected to the IG5. 
These devices require three connections: 
 
Power (normally +12v)
 Ground 
 
Trigger output
Often distributors with this type of sensor have a rising edge trigger at 70 degrees. 
Many distributors used in electronic ignition systems are fitted with mechanical and/or 
vacuum advance mechanisms. These mechanisms must be locked so that the IG5 receives a 
an input trigger signal with fixed relationship to crankshaft position. If you elect to rotate the 
distributor housing when setting the timing relationship of the trigger signal to the crankshaft 
position (the trigger angle) , read Appendix D, Rotor Phasing, first. 
 
 
C.2.3 Magnetic Reluctor Sensors
 
Many distributors used in electronic ignition systems are fitted with mechanical and/or 
vacuum advance mechanisms. These mechanisms must be locked so that the IG5 receives an 
input trigger signal with fixed relationship to crankshaft position. If you elect to rotate the 
distributor housing when setting the timing relationship of the trigger signal to the crankshaft 
position (the trigger angle), read Appendix D, Rotor Phasing first. The magnetic reluctor is 
used in distributors as well as on crank trigger units. These give a sinusoidal output signal 
(see Figure E.3.5) that must be modified to a square wave with a reluctor adaptor to be used as 
the trigger input signal for the IG5. Haltech can supply a Reluctor Adaptor for this purpose. 
The Reluctor adaptor has two input channels; a Primary input and a Secondary input. The 
Primary input is used for the main trigger, and the secondary is used for the Home or Road 
Speed input. The Reluctor adaptor plugs directly into the input trigger connector on the main 
harness in series with the Haltech ECU and the reluctor pick-up. 
Figure E.3.5 Signal before and after reluctor adaptor
.
