Magnetic switches as proximity sensors
How does a Reed magnetic switch work?
Magnetic switches are based on the tried-and-tested Reed contact-magnet principle, which guarantees reliable and durable functionality. A Reed contact installed in the housing is actuated by the magnetic field of a magnet. The switching state of the Reed contact can be evaluated and further processed by a downstream control device.
Examples of use:
- Door contacts
- Air-conditioning system control units
- Position monitoring of processes
- Alarm systems
- Fill-level monitoring
Our sensors identify the magnets from a defined distance and detect whether, for example, a door is open or closed.
Peter Schmid – Technical Sales | Reed Electronics AG
What makes a Reed magnetic switch stand out from the competition?
Reed magnetic switches work without contact having to be made, which reduces wear and tear to a minimum and guarantees that the product has a long service life. The magnetic switches can be easily installed, work in a potential-free manner and do not require supply voltage.
Structure of a Reed magnetic switch
A magnetic switch contact comprises two flat contact tongues that are hermetically fused in a glass tube filled with protective gas. If a permanent magnet is brought close to the switch, the overlapping contact tongues are attracted to each other and contact is quickly made. When the permanent magnet is moved away, the contact tongues are immediately demagnetised and return to their rest position.
Advantages of the Reed magnetic switches
