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Abstract

A magnetoresistive element comprises first to fourth magnetoresistive parts formed on a substrate. The first and second magnetoresistive parts are connected in series, and the third and fourth magnetoresistive parts are also connected in series. These series connected parts are connected in parallel to one another, first and second terminals are provided at from both ends of the parallel connection and, third and fourth terminals are provided at the junction of the first and second magnetoresistive parts and at the junction of the third and fourth magnetoresistive parts, respectively. The resistive values of the first and second magnetoresistive parts in the absence of a magnetic field are substantially equal, and the resistance values of the third and fourth magnetoresistive parts in the absence of a magnetic field are also substantially equal. The arrangement is such that when a magnet is moved relative to the magnetoresistive element, the resistance values of the first and second magnetoresistive parts operatively change and the third magnetoresistive part is always exposed to a magnetic field from the magnet, but the fourth magnetoresistive part is not exposed to the magnetic field at all times.

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First Claim