What are basic switches?

A basic switch is defined as a switch with a snap-action mechanism.
It is a small-size switch with a very small contact gap and snap-action mechanism. Its contact structure opens and closes with a specified movement and specified force and is enclosed in a case with an actuator on the exterior.
The snap-action mechanism allows a movable contact to move quickly from one fixed contact to another, regardless of the speed at which the switch is operated. The fast switching speed of the contacts shortens the arc duration between the contacts and reduces the wear of the contacts, thus maintaining stable characteristics. This results in longer contact life (electrical durability).

Our basic switches come in four sizes: General-purpose, Miniature, Subminiature and Ultra Subminiature, depending on the device and scale of the equipment they are to be used in. We have also added Sealed Basic Switches to the lineup that are designed to provide environmental resistance.

For more information, please see "Switch Basics: Technology".

The snap action shortens the arc duration by shortening the contact switching time. However, if the operating speed is too fast, the contact will open and close faster and the bounce time will be longer. The arc caused by this bounce can shorten the contact life. If the operation speed of the switch is too slow, the chattering time will be longer and contact instability and arcing may increase. For this reason, basic switches have a specified allowable operation speed (refer to the website below).