Specialty solenoids include specialty or proprietary products and accessories related to solenoids. A solenoid is a mechanical device that converts energy into linear motion. There are many types of specialty solenoids. Examples include a transmission solenoid, electric solenoids, DC solenoids, starter solenoid, rotary solenoid, linear solenoid, tubular solenoid, and a miniature solenoid. A transmission solenoid automatically calibrates, tests, marks, and sorts automotive on-off valves. An electric solenoid is particularly appropriate for actuation applications that require long life and simple control. The power consumption of a direct current (DC) solenoid is independent of the position of the plunger. DC solenoids are characterized by soft and hard operation. A starter solenoid mounts directly to a starter. A rotary solenoid is especially suited for applications that use a cam or crank lever to convert linear force into rotary motion. A linear solenoid can be found in either an open frame solenoid configuration, used for lower cost and less efficient applications. A tubular solenoid is most often used for longer life and higher force applications. A miniature solenoid utilizes a metal-to-plastic bearing surface that eliminates problems associated with powdered metal flaking in a conventional tubular solenoid. Other specialty solenoids are commonly available.