Top 10 Micro Switch Brand & Manufacturers

What is a Micro Switch?

A micro switch is a type of electromechanical switch that is designed to be very sensitive and precise. It typically has a small size and a snap - action mechanism. The switch is activated by a relatively small force or displacement, and it can quickly change its electrical state (from open to closed or vice - versa). Micro switches are often used in applications where a reliable and accurate detection of a mechanical movement or position change is required.

History of the Micro Switch

• The development of micro switches dates back to the early 20th century. As industrial automation and electrical control systems were evolving, there was a need for more sensitive and compact switches. The first micro switches were developed to meet these requirements and provided a more precise way of detecting mechanical events compared to traditional switches.
• With the growth of electronics and the demand for miniaturized components, micro switches continued to evolve. Their design and manufacturing processes were refined to make them even smaller, more reliable, and with better performance characteristics. They found increasing applications in a wide range of industries, from consumer electronics to automotive and aerospace.
• In modern times, micro switches are an integral part of many devices and systems. Their high - precision sensing capabilities and small form factor have made them a popular choice for applications such as safety switches, limit switches in machinery, and user - interface controls in various electronic products.

Purpose of the Micro Switch

• Limit Switching in Machinery: In industrial machinery and equipment, micro switches are commonly used as limit switches. They can detect the end - of - travel position of a moving part such as a conveyor belt, a robotic arm, or a sliding door. When the moving part reaches a certain position, it activates the micro switch, which can then send a signal to stop the movement, change the direction, or trigger another related action. This helps in preventing over - travel, damage to the equipment, and ensures safe and precise operation.
• Safety Interlocks: Micro switches play a crucial role in safety - critical applications. For example, in power tools, they can be used as a safety interlock to ensure that the tool only operates when the user has a proper grip or when a protective cover is in place. In elevators, micro switches are used to detect the position of the doors and ensure that they do not close on a person or an object. These safety - related functions rely on the quick - acting and reliable nature of micro switches.
• User - Interface Controls: In consumer electronics and other devices, micro switches are used for user - interface controls. They can be found as buttons on keyboards, remote controls, and various handheld devices. The sensitivity of the micro switch allows for a good tactile feedback to the user when the button is pressed, and it ensures that the electrical signal is accurately generated for the device to respond accordingly.

Principle of the Micro Switch

Micro switches operate based on a mechanical snap - action mechanism. Inside the switch, there is a spring - loaded actuator and a set of contacts. When a force is applied to the actuator (such as by a push - button press, a lever movement, or a mechanical part coming into contact with it), the actuator overcomes a certain pre - load force of the spring. Once this threshold is reached, the actuator snaps into a new position, causing the contacts to change their state rapidly. In a normally - open (NO) micro switch, the contacts are open until the actuator is activated, and then they close, completing the electrical circuit. In a normally - closed (NC) micro switch, the opposite is true; the contacts are closed until the actuator is activated, and then they open, interrupting the circuit.

Features of the Micro Switch

• High Sensitivity: Micro switches are known for their high sensitivity. They can be activated by a very small force or displacement. This makes them suitable for applications where a delicate touch or a small movement needs to be detected. For example, in a keyboard, a light press on a key can activate the micro switch to send the corresponding character input.
• Quick - Acting: The snap - action mechanism of micro switches allows for a very fast change in the electrical state. This quick response time is important in applications where rapid detection and signal generation are required. For instance, in a safety - critical application, the quick - acting nature of the micro switch can help in quickly stopping a potentially dangerous operation.
• Compact Size: As the name implies, micro switches are relatively small in size. Their compact design allows them to be easily integrated into various devices and systems, even in space - constrained applications. They can be mounted on printed circuit boards (PCBs) or in tight mechanical assemblies without taking up much space.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Durability: Micro switches are generally designed to be durable and withstand a significant number of actuations. The mechanical components, including the actuator and the contacts, are made to handle repeated use. They can also be designed to resist environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and vibration to a certain extent, depending on the specific model and its intended application.
• Versatility: They can be used in a wide variety of applications due to their flexibility in terms of actuation methods. Micro switches can be actuated by push - buttons, levers, rollers, or other mechanical means. This versatility allows them to be customized and integrated into different types of mechanical and electrical systems.

Types of the Micro Switch

• Basic Push - Button Micro Switch: This is the most common type, where the switch is actuated by a push - button. It is widely used in user - interface applications such as keyboards, remote controls, and small electronic devices. The button can have different shapes and sizes to fit the design requirements of the device.
• Lever - Actuated Micro Switch: These micro switches have a lever attached to the actuator. The lever can be used to amplify a small force or to change the direction of the actuating force. They are often used in applications where the actuation point needs to be adjusted or where a more complex mechanical interaction is involved, such as in some industrial control panels.
• Roller - Actuated Micro Switch: In this type, the actuator is a roller. These micro switches are designed to be actuated by a lateral or tangential force applied to the roller. They are commonly used in applications where a moving object comes into contact with the roller to activate the switch. For example, in conveyor belt systems to detect the presence of objects.
• Plunger - Type Micro Switch: The plunger - type micro switch has a plunger as the actuator. It is typically used in applications where a direct push - in force is applied to the switch. They can be found in some security systems, for example, to detect the opening of a door or a window.

Precautions for using the Micro Switch

• Actuation Force and Travel: Pay attention to the specified actuation force and travel distance of the micro switch. Applying a force that exceeds the maximum actuation force can damage the switch. Similarly, not allowing the actuator to travel the full required distance can lead to unreliable operation. Ensure that the mechanical components that interact with the micro switch are designed to provide the correct actuation force and travel.
• Contact Rating: Consider the contact rating of the micro switch, including the maximum current and voltage it can handle. Overloading the contacts can cause arcing, overheating, and premature wear. Make sure that the electrical load connected to the micro switch is within the specified contact rating to ensure safe and reliable operation.
• Environmental Conditions: Micro switches may be affected by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, dust, and vibration. In harsh or extreme conditions, choose a micro switch with appropriate environmental protection. For example, in a wet or dusty environment, a sealed or encapsulated micro switch may be necessary to prevent damage to the internal components.
• Installation and Mounting: Proper installation and mounting of the micro switch are crucial. It should be securely mounted to prevent movement during operation. Incorrect mounting can affect the alignment of the actuator and lead to improper actuation or false triggering. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use appropriate mounting hardware.

Things to consider when purchasing the Micro Switch

• Application Requirements: Determine the specific requirements of your application, such as the type of actuation (push - button, lever, roller, etc.), the required sensitivity, the operating environment, and the electrical load. Based on these requirements, select a micro switch with the appropriate characteristics. For example, if you need a switch for a high - humidity environment, you may need a micro switch with a waterproof enclosure.
• Type of Micro Switch: Consider the different types of micro switches available and choose the one that best suits your application's needs. For user - interface applications, a basic push - button micro switch may be sufficient. But for more complex mechanical systems, a lever - or roller - actuated micro switch might be more appropriate.
• Performance Characteristics: Look at the performance parameters of the micro switch, such as the actuation force, travel distance, contact resistance, and electrical life expectancy. These characteristics should match the demands of your application to ensure efficient and reliable operation. Compare different products and their performance metrics to make an informed decision.[!--empirenews.page--]
• Cost and Budget: Establish a budget for the micro switch purchase. The cost can vary depending on the type, features, and brand of the switch. Consider not only the initial purchase price but also the long - term costs such as maintenance, replacement, and potential impact on the overall system performance. Sometimes, a more expensive micro switch with better performance and reliability may be a more cost - effective choice in the long run.
• Manufacturer Support and Training: Select a reputable manufacturer that provides good technical support and training. Operating and using micro switches correctly may require some technical knowledge, and the manufacturer should offer resources such as user manuals, online tutorials, and customer support to help you get the most out of the micro switch.

Terms of the Micro Switch

• Normally - Open (NO) and Normally - Closed (NC): Refers to the default state of the contacts in the micro switch. In a NO switch, the contacts are open when the switch is in its resting position, and in an NC switch, the contacts are closed when the switch is in its resting position.
• Actuation Force: The minimum force required to activate the micro switch. It is an important parameter for determining the sensitivity of the switch and ensuring that it is properly actuated in the application.
• Travel Distance: The distance that the actuator of the micro switch needs to move in order to change the state of the contacts. It is related to the mechanical design of the switch and affects its operation and integration into mechanical systems.
• Contact Resistance: The resistance across the contacts of the micro switch when they are closed. A low contact resistance is desirable to ensure efficient electrical conduction and minimize power loss and heat generation.
• Electrical Life: The number of times the micro switch can be actuated and de - actuated before the contacts or other internal components are likely to fail. It is an important parameter for assessing the durability and reliability of the switch.