Temposonics linear sensors use the time-based magnetostrictive position sensing principle developed by MTS. Within the sensing element, a sonic strain pulse is induced in a specially-designed magnetostrictive waveguide by the momentary interaction of two magnetic fields. One field comes from a movable permanent magnet that passes along the outside of the sensor. The other field comes from an "interrogation" current pulse applied along the waveguide.

The resulting strain pulse travels at sonic speed along the waveguide and is detected at the head of the sensing element. The position of the magnet is determined with high precision and speed by accurately measuring the elapsed time between the application of the interrogation pulse and the arrival of the resulting strain pulse with a high speed counter. Using the elapsed time to determine position of the permanent magnet provides an absolute position reading that never needs recalibration or re-homing after a power loss. Non-contact sensing eliminates wear, noise and guarantees the best durability and output repeatability.