Abstract: A proximity detector including a reference oscillator and a measurement oscillator, the frequency of which depends on the proximity of an object, particularly a metal object. A detection counter value A, which is controlled by the frequency F of the measurement oscillator, is compared to a set point counter value B to create the output signal. The set point counter value B0, which is determined during the calibration operation, is corrected by a quantity C that depends mainly on the difference of the measured temperature &thgr; compared to the calibration temperature &thgr;0. The proximity detector may find particular application to the detection of ferrous or nonferrous objects by universal or selective, inductive or capacitive detecting elements.

Abstract: A proximity detector comprising a reference oscillator and a measurement oscillator the frequency of which depends on the proximity of an object, particularly a metal object.