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Ignition systems are older than the automobile itself, dating back to the 1870's. A brief history of ignition systems is presented. The use of a microencapsulated powder metal core for an ignition system is a relatively new idea. It was first introduced into an automotive system in 1990. Microencapsulation of each iron particle with an insulating binder allows a P/M part to be pressed which, at lower frequencies, has the magnetic flux and eddy current losses similar to a laminated part. Warm pressing, along with microencapsulation, makes a molded product which has much higher green strength and green density, as well as increased flowability during molding. This allows thin walled parts and parts with a more complex geometry to now be made by net shape P/M techniques. Microencapsulated P/M cores have definite advantages and disadvantages over laminated cores.