LilyPad Reed Switch

Add hidden, magnetic interactions to your wearable projects! The LilyPad Reed Switch is a simple reed-switch breakout that's easy to use in e-textile circuits, just like the LilyPad Button and Switch. To make it more durable for wearable use, we’ve used a different style of reed switch that's insulated. This means the same glass switch is encased in black plastic, making it much harder to break, but it works in exactly the same way.

A reed switch is a simple mechanical switch activated by a magnet. When the device is exposed to a magnetic field, the two ferrous materials (reeds) inside the switch pull together, and the switch closes. When you remove the magnetic field, the reeds separate and the switch opens. This makes for a great non-contact switch that can carry up to 0.8A and 0.35A while switched.

Sewable E-Textile Design

LilyPad is a wearable e-textile technology developed by Leah Buechley and cooperatively designed by Leah and SparkFun. To ensure these components integrate seamlessly into your wardrobe (no pun intended), this LilyPad switch relies on some specific hardware choices:

• Sewable Tabs: The LilyPad Reed Switch features two large, conductive connecting pads that allow you to stitch them directly into fabric using conductive thread.
• Low-Profile Build: At just over the size of a U.S. quarter dollar, this board can be sewn to lay on or inside of your garments. Please be aware that there are two cut pins poking out of the back of the board that may damage fabric.
• Washable Hardware: Built to survive real-world use, your finished clothing can be carefully washed without ruining the electronics.

Whether you want to trigger a secret light display when you zip up a jacket or create a hidden interactive prop, this magnetically activated switch gives you a creative, wear-resistant way to control your sewable circuits.

Does not include:

• Conductive Thread
• Sewing Needles