Abstract: An inductive type proximity switch (S) includes an open-ended loop (L3) adjacent to the inductor (L1, L2) of the parallel resonant circuit of its main (LC) oscillator. A high speed bistate switch (S1) is connected between the ends of the loop (L3). A pulsed input to the switch (S1) causes sequential making and breaking of a connection between the ends of the loop (L3) whereby the loop (L3) functions as a Faraday shield to inhibit mutual inductive linking of the inductor (L1, L2) with an inductor (L4) of a passive (LC) resonant circuit (L4, C4) of a target (T) when the target (T) is in proximity with the proximity switch (S) and the connection between the ends of the loop (L3) is made by the bistate switch (S1).