Choosing an Electrical Switch
More
Limit Switches
When a moving object contacts the actuator on these switches, they open or close a circuit. They have the rapid-closing action of a snap-acting switch, but with a larger actuator. This makes them a good choice for use with large objects—for instance, a box on a conveyor runs into the switch, stopping the conveyor.
Switches with a plunger actuator require a push to actuate, similar to a button.
Switches with a roller plunger or cross roller plunger actuator have a roller that moves when an object pushes the actuator. This reduces friction during actuation to limit wear and tear on your switch.
Switches with a roller lever actuator use a lever with a roller at the end to activate. This allows parts to glide across the actuation surface with minimal friction, limiting wear and tear on your switch.
Switches with a T-rod actuator have four rods extending in different directions from a pivot point. If an object contacts any of the rods from any direction, these switches actuate. Since they have such a large actuation area, they’re great for detecting moving parts when your machine tool isn’t perfectly aligned.
Switches with a 4-pole micro M12 plug connect to cables with a socket (sold separately), allowing you to quickly connect and disconnect the switch.
Styles E and F let you adjust the actuator’s height to align it with your target.
Switches rated IP67 are protected against dust and temporary submersion.
Switches | ||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | Conduit | Cables with Socket | ||||||||||||||||
| Style | No. of Circuits Controlled | Switch Starting Position | Switch Action | Industry Designation | Switching Current @ Voltage | Max. Voltage | Operating Temp. Range, °F | Actuator Ht. | Lg. | Ht. | Dp. | Housing Material | Thread Size  | Environmental Rating | Each | Each | ||
Plunger Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||||||
With 4-Pole Micro M12 Plug | ||||||||||||||||||
| A | 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 3 A @ 250 V AC, 250 V DC | 250V AC 250V DC | -22° to 158° | 0.8" | 1.1" | 2.5" | 1.2" | Plastic | __ | IP67 | 00000000 | 000000 | 0000000 | 000000 |
Roller Plunger Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||||||
With 4-Pole Micro M12 Plug | ||||||||||||||||||
| B | 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 3 A @ 250 V AC, 250 V DC | 250V AC 250V DC | -22° to 158° | 1.2" | 1.1" | 2.5" | 1.2" | Plastic | __ | IP67 | 00000000 | 00000 | 0000000 | 00000 |
Roller Lever Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||||||
With 4-Pole Micro M12 Plug | ||||||||||||||||||
| D | 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 3 A @ 250 V AC, 250 V DC | 250V AC 250V DC | -22° to 158° | 1.5" | 1.1" | 2.5" | 1.2" | Plastic | __ | IP67 | 00000000 | 00000 | 0000000 | 00000 |
| E | 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 3 A @ 250 V AC, 250 V DC | 250V AC 250V DC | -22° to 158° | 1.5"-3.3" | 1.1" | 2.5" | 1.2" | Plastic | __ | IP67 | 00000000 | 00000 | 0000000 | 00000 |
T-Rod Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||||||
With Screw Terminals | ||||||||||||||||||
| G | 2 | 2 Off (Normally Open) or 2 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | DPDT | 10 A @ 240 V AC, 250 V DC | 240V AC 250V DC | -13° to 158° | 7.9" | 3.4" | 3.7" | 2.1" | Zinc | PG-13.5 | IP54 | 00000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
Build-Your-Own Limit Switches
Combine an actuator and a switch to assemble the exact limit switch you need. These switches have the rapid-closing action of a snap-acting switch, but have a larger actuator for large objects. When an object in motion comes into contact with the actuator, it sends a signal to open or close a circuit. They’re often used for conveyor systems and elevators. Each actuator style is compatible with all housing styles and vice versa.
Switches with a polypropylene plastic housing are lighter in weight than metal switches. Switches with a zinc housing are more durable than those with a plastic housing.
Switches with a 4-pole micro M12 plug quickly connect and disconnect from your setup. Use cables (sold separately) to wire your switch connection to your setup.
Switches with an LED power indicator and LED status indicator show you the status of the line and load phases. They give you extra assurance that your switch is connected and wired correctly.
Switches with 2 conduit connections allow you to wire switches side by side, so you can save space and simplify your wiring.
IP65 switches protect against dust and splashing water. IP66 switches protect against dust and washdowns. IP67 switches protect against dust and temporary submersion.
Screw
Terminals
Terminals and
LED Indicator
4-Pole
Micro M12 Plug
Switches | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | Conduit | Cables | |||||||||||||||
| No. of Circuits Controlled | Switch Starting Position | Switch Action | Industry Designation | Switching Current @ Voltage | Max. Voltage | No. of Terminals | Lg. | Ht. | Dp. | No. of Connections | Thread Size | Environmental Rating | Specifications Met | Each | Each | ||
Polypropylene Plastic Housing | |||||||||||||||||
Screw Terminals | |||||||||||||||||
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 6 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 400V AC 400V DC | 4 | 1.2" | 2.7" | 1.3" | 1 | M20 | IP65 | EN 50047 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 6 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 400V AC 400V DC | 4 | 1.6" | 3.1" | 1.5" | 1 | M20 | IP66, IP67 | EN 50041 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 00000 | 000000 | 00 |
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 6 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 400V AC 400V DC | 4 | 2" | 2.1" | 1.3" | 2 | M20 | IP66, IP67 | EN 50047 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
Screw Terminals—LED Power Indicator and LED Status Indicator | |||||||||||||||||
| 3 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 2 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | 3PST-1NO/2NC | 3 A @ 24 V DC | 24V DC | 6 | 1.2" | 2.7" | 1.3" | 1 | M20 | IP65 | EN 50047 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
| 3 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 2 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | 3PST-1NO/2NC | 3 A @ 24 V DC | 24V DC | 6 | 1.6" | 3.1" | 1.5" | 1 | M20 | IP66, IP67 | EN 50041 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
4-Pole Micro M12 | |||||||||||||||||
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 4 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 250V AC 250V DC | __ | 1.2" | 2.7" | 1.3" | __ | __ | IP65 | EN 50047 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 4 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 250V AC 250V DC | __ | 1.6" | 3.1" | 1.5" | __ | __ | IP67 | EN 50041 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 0000000 | 00000 |
Zinc Housing | |||||||||||||||||
Screw Terminals | |||||||||||||||||
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 6 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 400V AC 400V DC | 4 | 1.2" | 2.7" | 1.3" | 1 | M20 | IP66, IP67 | EN 50047 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
| 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | DPST-1NO/1NC | 6 A @ 240 V AC, 3 A @ 24 V DC | 400V AC 400V DC | 4 | 1.6" | 3.1" | 1.4" | 1 | M20 | IP66, IP67 | EN 50041 UL Listed C-UL Listed CE Marked CCC Marked | 0000000 | 000000 | 000000 | 00 |
Wireless Self-Powered Limit Switches
Install these limit switches where changing a battery or routing wires might be difficult—they power themselves when a moving object contacts the actuator. Place them up to 330 ft. away from the receiver (sold separately). These switches have the rapid-closing action of a snap-acting switch, but with a larger actuator.
Plunger actuators open or close circuits when objects push against them.
Roller-plunger actuators open or close circuits when an object pushes against the roller, which moves the plunger. The roller moves parallel to the mounting direction, so it helps push the plunger even if the force isn’t straight on. The roller also reduces friction during actuation which prevents wear and tear over time.
Roller-lever actuators open or close circuits when material moves across the switch. The roller reduces friction during actuation which prevents wear and tear over time.
Rod actuators open or close circuits when material pushes against the rod. The rod extends from the body of the actuator, so these switches are ideal when objects actuating the switch are further away.
Use an antenna (sold separately) to increase the maximum transmission range to 984 ft. They also strengthen the signal if there are obstacles between your switch and receiver.
Housing | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of Circuits Controlled | Max. Transmission Distance, ft. | Transmission Frequency | Switch Action | Actuator Material | Operating Temp. Range, °F | Actuator Height | Lg. | Ht. | Dp. | Housing Material | Specifications Met | Each | ||
Plunger Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||
| A | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Zinc | -13° to 131° | 0.4" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 0000000 |
Roller Plunger Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||
| B | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Steel | -13° to 131° | 0.8" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 000000 |
Roller Lever Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||
| C | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Plastic | -13° to 131° | 1.7" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| C | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Steel | -13° to 131° | 1.7" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| D | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Plastic | -13° to 131° | 1.7"-3.6" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| D | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Plastic | -13° to 131° | 2.5"-4.3" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 000000 |
Rod Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||
| E | 1 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | Springs Back (Momentary) | Plastic | -13° to 131° | 3" | 1.2" | 2 1/2" | 0.6" | Plastic | CE Marked, IEC 60947-5, EN 60947-5 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| No. of Outputs | Max. Transmission Distance, ft. | Transmission Frequency | Max. Switching Current @ Voltage | Input Voltage | Signal Output Type | Mounting Location | For DIN Rail Size | Wd. | Ht. | Dp. | Environmental Rating | Specifications Met | Each | |
With Screw Terminals | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 330 | 2,405 MHz | 200 mA @ 24 V DC | 24V DC | PNP | DIN Rail | 35 mm | 1 7/16" | 4 1/4" | 2 15/16" | IP20 | CE Marked, IEC 60947-1, IEC 60947-5-1, EN 60947-5-1, EN 60947-1 | 0000000 | 0000000 |
| Max. Transmission Distance, ft. | Transmission Frequency | Input Voltage | Cable Lg., ft. | Environmental Rating | Specifications Met | Each | |
With Wire Leads | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 984 | 2,405 MHz | 24V AC-240V AC, 24V DC-240V DC | 16 | IP65 | UL Listed, CSA Certified, CE Marked | 0000000 | 0000000 |
Enclosed Wet-Location Snap-Acting Switches
Rated IP67, these switches have an enclosure that shields their interior during temporary submersion. They open and close circuits in a snap—their quick actuation limits arcing and keeps contacts from sticking. These switches are often used to indicate an open appliance or enclosure door. You can also use them inside limit, pressure, and temperature switches. Switches with a plunger actuator require a push to actuate, similar to a button.
Switches with a roller plunger actuator have a roller that moves parallel to the body length when an object pushes the actuator. This reduces friction to limit wear and tear on your switch.
Switches with a roller lever actuator combine the larger actuation area of a standard lever with a smooth gliding roller actuator. They minimize friction to limit wear and tear on your switch.
Switches with a 4-pole micro M12 plug quickly connect and disconnect from your switch. Use cables (sold separately) to wire your switch connection to your setup.
Micro
M12 Plug
Housing | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of Circuits Controlled | Switch Starting Position | Switch Action | Industry Designation | Switching Current @ Voltage | Max. Voltage | Operating Temp. Range, °F | Actuator Ht. | Lg. | Ht. | Dp. | Lever Lg. | Specifications Met | Each | |
Plunger Actuator Style for 9/16" Panel Cutout Dia. | ||||||||||||||
With 4-Pole Micro M12 Plug | ||||||||||||||
| 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 0.1 A @ 30 V DC | 30V DC | 45° to 155° | 0.79" | 2.24" | 1.3" | 0.71" | __ | EN 60947-5-1 | 0000000 | 0000000 |
| 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 1 A @ 30 V DC | 30V DC | 45° to 155° | 0.79" | 2.24" | 1.3" | 0.71" | __ | EN 60947-5-1 | 0000000 | 000000 |
Roller Plunger Actuator Style for 9/16" Panel Cutout Dia. | ||||||||||||||
With 4-Pole Micro M12 Plug | ||||||||||||||
| 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 0.1 A @ 30 V DC | 30V DC | 45° to 155° | 1.06" | 2.24" | 1.3" | 0.71" | __ | EN 60947-5-1 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 1 A @ 30 V DC | 30V DC | 45° to 155° | 1.06" | 2.24" | 1.3" | 0.71" | __ | EN 60947-5-1 | 0000000 | 000000 |
Roller Lever Actuator Style | ||||||||||||||
With 4-Pole Micro M12 Plug | ||||||||||||||
| 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 0.1 A @ 30 V DC | 30V DC | 45° to 155° | 0.73" | 2.24" | 1.3" | 0.71" | 0.79" | EN 60947-5-1 | 0000000 | 000000 |
| 1 | 1 Off (Normally Open) or 1 On (Normally Closed) | Springs Back (Momentary) | SPDT | 1 A @ 30 V DC | 30V DC | 45° to 155° | 0.73" | 2.24" | 1.3" | 0.71" | 0.79" | EN 60947-5-1 | 0000000 | 000000 |
Frame-Mounted Safety Switches
Also known as interlock switches, these ensure the safety of personnel by automatically shutting off power to machinery when an access door opens. Mount the switch to the door frame and mount a key to the door so that the key is inserted into the switch when the door is closed. When the door opens, the key is removed from the switch and the machine shuts down. They’re often used with machine guards for large robots.
All switches require an actuator key, but not all include one—check whether you need to pick out a separate actuator key. For some switch styles, you can also select the mounting orientation of the key. Flexible keys pivot at least 15°, making them easier to align with switches during installation.
Style A-G switches have positive-force, normally closed contacts that will open a circuit when the switch is actuated even if a spring fails or the contacts stick.
Style J switches have extra safety controls to prevent you from getting trapped next to running machinery. They actuate with the turn of a portable key. Bring the key when you enter an enclosure to ensure machinery won’t start while you’re inside, even if the door closes behind you. As an added fail-safe, a rear release button lets you cut power from inside of enclosures if needed. These switches have light-up indicators that show when they're properly installed and whether they're actuated.
IP67 rated switches protect against temporary submersion. NEMA 6 rated switches protect against both temporary submersion and washdowns.
Housing | Conduit | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Style | No. of Circuits Controlled | Switch Starting Position | Switch Action | No. of Terminals | Industry Designation | Switching Current @ Voltage | Max. Voltage | Ht. | Wd. | Dp. | Trade Size | Thread Size | Thread Type | Key Included | Environmental Rating | Each | |
Screw Terminal Connection with Positive-Force Normally Closed Contacts | |||||||||||||||||
| B | 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-1NO/1NC | 5 A @ 120 V AC, 2 A @ 24 V DC | 500V AC 250V DC | 3" | 1" | 1.1" | 1/2 | __ | NPT | Yes | IP67, NEMA 6 | 00000000 | 0000000 |
| D | 3 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 2 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 6 | 3PST-1NO/2NC | 6 A @ 120 V AC, 0.27 A @ 24 V DC | 240V AC 250V DC | 3.8" | 1.2" | 1.2" | 1/2 | __ | NPT | Yes | IP67 | 00000000 | 00000 |
| F | 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-1NO/1NC | 2 A @ 400 V AC | 400V AC | 4.4" | 1.6" | 1.6" | __ | M20 | Metric | No | IP67 | 000000000 | 00000 |
| F | 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-1NO/1NC | 2 A @ 400 V AC | 400V AC | 4.4" | 1.6" | 1.6" | 1/2 | __ | BSPP | No | IP67 | 000000000 | 000000 |
| F | 2 | 1 Off (Normally Open) and 1 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-1NO/1NC | 2 A @ 400 V AC | 400V AC | 4.4" | 1.6" | 1.6" | 1/2 | __ | NPT | No | IP67 | 000000000 | 000000 |
| F | 2 | 2 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-NC | 2 A @ 400 V AC | 400V AC | 4.4" | 1.6" | 1.6" | __ | M20 | Metric | No | IP67 | 000000000 | 00000 |
| F | 2 | 2 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-NC | 2 A @ 400 V AC | 400V AC | 4.4" | 1.6" | 1.6" | 1/2 | __ | BSPP | No | IP67 | 000000000 | 00000 |
| F | 2 | 2 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 4 | DPST-NC | 2 A @ 400 V AC | 400V AC | 4.4" | 1.6" | 1.6" | 1/2 | __ | NPT | No | IP67 | 000000000 | 000000 |
Screw Terminal Connection with Rear Release Button, Portable Key, and LED Status Indicator | |||||||||||||||||
| J | 6 | 2 Off (Normally Open) and 4 On (Normally Closed) | Stays Switched (Maintained) | 12 | 6PST-2NO/4NC | 3 A @ 240 V AC, 2.5 A @ 250 V DC | 240V AC 250V DC | 5.2" | 4.6" | 2.2" | __ | M20 | Metric | Yes | IP67 | 000000000 | 000000 |
O'all | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angle Range | Adjustability | Lg. | Wd. | Mounting Fasteners Included | Each | ||
Straight Keys | |||||||
| For Style F | __ | __ | 53.7 mm | 52.4 mm | No | 000000000 | 000000 |
| For Style J | __ | __ | 61.5 mm | 40 mm | No | 000000000 | 00000 |
90° Angle Keys | |||||||
| For Style J | __ | __ | 45 mm | 40 mm | No | 000000000 | 00000 |
Flexible Keys | |||||||
| For Style D | 0°-15° | Up/Down/Left/Right | 48.9 mm | 55 mm | No | 000000000 | 00000 |
| For Style F | 0°-18° | Left/Right | 80.7 mm | 40 mm | No | 000000000 | 00000 |
| For Style J | 0°-18° | Left/Right | 70 mm | 40 mm | No | 000000000 | 00000 |