> /They almost certainly have gold contacts on the switches
> /and probably would only support low current DC unless
> /specifically stated that they can support higher currents.
>
> Gold is used only on very LOW current switches and it
> is easily burned away if the switch's current ratings
> are exceeded even for an instant. You won't find any
> ordinary switches that use gold contacts.
>
The ever popular RS catalogue from England has two major ranges of switches
with gold contacts. From their size and quality they look ideal for aircraft
use and it was to these I was referring - specifically look for DC rating.
> /Putting high current DC through these switches could
> /possibly result in arc over and welded contacts.
> / I have never seen....
I can send you a couple if you want. I learnt a long time ago that the RS
gold connectored switches don't like high current DC. 15A DC is not the same
as 15A AC! Luckily it was only on a home build computer (yes, it drew 15A at
5v and still only had 2k of memory!!). Took me some time to work out why
those switches kept failing though.
>
> /RS do have some miniature toggles with high current
> /DC contacts - my catalogue is in the office and I
> /am a home wid a code so I can't dig out the numbers.
>
> The miniature toggles are generally limited to 5 amps
> and they have pretty close contact spacing when open.
> I do not recommend these devices for power control in
> airplanes. They're fine for audio and instrumentation
> switching or power control under an amp or so.
The RS ones are rated to 10A DC but ditto.
> Then it doesn't matter WHAT kind of switches you use. I
> hightly recommend the standard toggles that mount in 15/32"
> round holes. They are universally produced by hundreds
> of manufacturers, they are available with .25" fast-on tabs
> for easy installation and replacement. My idea of the
> ideal switch is one that can be replaced in 5 minutes for
> $5, sitting in the pilot's seat with only a nut-driver in
> hand.
>
Its also a hell of a lot easier making round holes that it is making square
ones I can tell you!!
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Tony Krzyzewski tonyk@kaon.co.nz
Managing Director Ph 64 9 358 9124
Kaon Technologies Fx 64 9 358 9127
Auckland
New Zealand
Networkers visit www.kaon.co.nz
Aviators visit www.kaon.co.nz/europa/272index.html
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