A reed switch consists of two ferromagnetic and specially shaped contact blades (reeds) positioned in a hermetically
sealed glass tube with a gap between them and in a protective atmosphere. The plated contact surfaces are isolated
from the outside environment, which protects the contacts from contamination.
Reed switches are available as form A (normally open) and form C (changeover), and are operated using a magnetic field generated by either a permanent magnet or current-carrying coil.
The features that make the reed switch a valuable tool include compact size, low weight, quick response time,
long life and low cost.
Some common applications are: reed reays, automotive sensors, robotics sensors, security sensors and toys and games.
They are also available in moulded packages affording protection from damage and in surface mount styles.
Competitors
Reed Switches Reference List available
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