The compact C1 spring-return selector switch has three selector positions and as many as 25,000 life-cycle operations. The device, which employs a return that breaks contact when released, is indexed in 30, 60, and 908. Vertical and rear pc-board-mount versions, as well as types with solder lugs, are available in various shaft and bushing lengths. Prices range from $5.25 to $6.50 (5000).
Electroswitch, Raleigh, NC. (919) 833-0707.
Type 07 coded switches are designed for reliable operation in 3.3 and 5V dc circuits, even after years of inactivity. The reason: Contact oxidation, a primary cause of failure in infrequently used switches, is virtually eliminated with the Type 07's hermetically sealed gold-plated contacts. Prices start at about $3.50 (1000).
Elma Electronic Inc, Fremont, CA. (510) 656-3400.
A unit with right-angle pc-board terminals joins the DF series of power rocker switches. The dpst switch has a European-style actuator with positive detent and tactile feedback and contact ratings of 16A at 125/250V ac, 1/4¼ hp at 125V ac, and 1/2½ hp at 250V ac. Electrical life is 10,000 make-and-break cycles at full load with a minimum mechanical life of 100,000 cycles. The DF series also offers panel-mount switches with quick-connect terminals. The right-angle switch costs $1.75 (1000).
C&K Components Inc, Watertown, MA. (617) 926-6400.
A package-sealing technique for the vendor's NAiS brand TQ-SMD series of electromechanical relays virtually eliminates leakage problems associated with reflow soldering of surface-mount devices. The 2 Form C relays, which have a profile of 6 mm, are rated for 2A at 30V dc and 0.5A at 125V ac with maximum switching power of 60W. Despite their size, the devices handle as much as 1500V between contacts and 2500V between contact and coil. Life expectancy is rated at 100,000 operations. Prices start at $2.40 (1000).
Aromat Corp, New Providence, NJ. (908) 464-3550.
For aerospace and military applications, the SR75-2 solid-state relay houses a 320V power MOSFET in a 16-pin plastic DIP. The relay integrates short-circuit protection for either switching into a dead short or shorting the relay under load. When the device senses a short-circuit condition, the relay initiates a shutdown within 5 mµsec. The SR75-2 is rated for a continuous output load current of 0.75A at 300V and meets MIL-STD-704A requirements for handling transients of as high as ±600V pk for 10 mµsec. The device costs $19.70 (OEM).
Teledyne Relays, Los Angeles, CA. (310) 577-3825.
Miniature key-lock switches provide several simple circuitry options, including two and three positions and dpdt configurations. Keying options include four levels of operator key security, key-pull choices, matched key codes, and key marking. Series 03 switches handle resistive loads of at least 2A at 120V ac. Larger switches handle 4A make-and-break currents. A 4A dpdt version costs $5.16 (100).
Grayhill Inc, La Grange, IL. (708) 482-2132.
The flatpack, dc-powered 361A and ac-powered 461A alarm relays feature improved performance at a lower cost over previous models. Both versions include electromechanical, spdt, dry-contact relays that are CSA-rated for 5A. Response times are less than 100 msec, and you can set the dead band from 1 to 100% of the input span to prevent false trips. The alarms accept input-signal ranges of 0 to 20 mA dc, 0 to 1V, 0 to 5V, 0 to 10V, 0 to 50V, and 0 to 100V dc. An optional external ac sensor allows the units to accept 0 to 20A ac. Prices start at $190.
Acromag, Wixom, MI. (810) 624-1541.
With dimensions of 6×3.7 mm and a height of 2.5 mm, the KSR series of surface-mount tactile switches is suitable for space-critical applications. The KSR single-pole, NO switch provides 0.4 to 0.6 mm of travel and produces a clear tactile feedback. The devices come in operating-force options of 100, 200, and 450g. The sealed and washable devices come in 2500-unit reels and cost $0.17 to $0.47, depending on style and quantity.
ITT Schadow, Eden Prairie, MN. (612) 934-4400.