Hall Effect Sensor: Description and Operation

Profile Ignition Pickup:

The Profile Ignition Pickup (PIP) sensor is a Hall-effect type switch located in the distributor. It sends the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) information on engine speed and crankshaft position.
The Hall device operates by the manipulation of magnetic fields. When a rotor vane ENTERS the space between the two halves of the stator pick-up, the magnetic field is altered, turning ON the signal to the PCM. When the vane LEAVES the stator gap, the magnetic field returns to normal, and the signal to the PCM is turned OFF.