Electromechanical Switch Ratings
Switches are designed for use at an amperage and voltage not higher than the limits stated in the data sheet or stamped onto the housing/mounting yoke. For example, some switches might be rated for “10A 125V; 5A 250V” — this indicates that the switch may be used to control loads not over 10 amps if the voltage is not over 125 volts, but only five amps if the voltage is higher but not over 250 volts. Common voltages for AC include 125VAC and 250VAC, while common voltages for DC include 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48VDC.
Typically, switches with low power are defined as being in the milliamps, medium power is from two amps to five amps and high power is greater than six amps. Medium to high power switches typically require agency approvals for safety and compliance reasons. These agencies include cULus (North America), ENEC (Europe), VDE (Germany) and TUV (Worldwide).
Example: Low Voltage/Power Switch
320 Series Tactile Pushbutton Switch: VIEW DATA SHEET | CONFIGURATOR
- Electrical Rating: 25mA @ 50VDC
- 12.40mm x 12.40mm outline
- 1,000,000-cycle life expectancy
Example: Medium Voltage/Power Switch
ULV4 Series Anti-Vandal Switch: VIEW DATA SHEET | CONFIGURATOR
- Electrical Rating: 3A, 125/250VAC (UL listed)
- 19mm diameter panel cutout size
- IP67 rated
Example: High Voltage/Power Switch
PVHC4 Series Anti-Vandal Switch: VIEW DATA SHEET | CONFIGURATOR
- Electrical Ratings (UL listed):
- 20A, 250VAC
- 25A, 30VDC
- 19mm diameter panel cutout size
- IP67 rated
