Abstract: A latch detection system is includes a fingerboard having a plurality of fingers for holding pipe, at least one latch displaced among the fingers for selecting securing the pipe among the fingers, a sensor operably connected to said latch to detect open and closed positions of the latch, and a control system operably connected to the latch to notify a user of the position of the latch. The latch detection system also includes a magnet embedded in the latch and a magnetic pickup sensor to detect the location of the latch. The sensor is a hall effect sensor. The control system can indicate to an operator that a latch has not been opened as expected and prevent subsequent latches form opening until error can be corrected.