Abstract: The present invention includes a system with a sensor to detect a change in one or more physical characteristics and provide a corresponding electrical sensor signal, a controller including a power source for the sensor, and transient suppression circuitry. This circuitry is coupled between the sensor and the power source of the controller, and includes a first thermistor to protect the sensor from a power surge from the controller and/or power source.

Abstract: An electrically operated solenoid for controlling a valve mechanism, including a coil assembly, a magnetic armature defining a passage extending therethrough, a pole piece defining a passage extending therethrough generally aligned with the passage in the armature, and an actuator pin having a first portion disposed within the passage in the armature and a second portion extending through the passage in the pole piece for engagement with the valve mechanism. The actuator pin is engaged with the armature such that reciprocating movement of the armature correspondingly displaces the actuator pin to control operation of the valve mechanism. An adjustment screw is threadingly engaged within a threaded portion of the armature passage such that displacement of the adjustment screw correspondingly adjusts a position of the actuator pin relative to the armature along an actuation axis.