High performance reed switch uses MEMS

The RedRock RS-A-2515 is a new form of magnetic reed switch that uses MEMS technology to obtain a tiny size combined with ruggedness. Reed switches offer zero power (just a magnet) operation, small size, and reasonable energy handling capability.

The RedRock is just 1.01 x 2.08 x 0.94 mm and can switch a maximum of 100 Vdc with a switching current of 50 mA DC or 35 mA AC, RMS. It will handle 20x the acceleration of a standard reed switch and has at least 125 M mean cycles before failure (MCBF). Closure sensitivity ranges from 5 to 25 millitesla, permitting operation up to 20 mm away using a small NdFeB magnet. Closure has a ±10 µm repeatability. Volume pricing will be about $4 to $5 in 2014. Samples available now.