For proper operation of a normally closed reed sensor, a magnet is mounted and centered over the contacts causing the contacts to close and remain in the closed state. A second magnet is mounted to a moving element where its distance is being sensed. When this second magnet enters reed switch’s sphere of magnetic influence the contacts will open. This second magnet’s polarity must be at least equal and opposite the magnetic strength of the first magnet. Now when the second magnet is withdrawn, the contacts will reclose completing the operational cycle.