Reed Switch

This small insulated reed switch can carry up to 1.2A and 0.5A while switched, making it ideal for projects that require non-contact control. Reed switches are magnetically actuated electrical switches (not magically actuated, though it seems that way sometimes). When the switch body is exposed to a magnetic field, like a magnet or even a strong electrical current, two ferrous materials inside pull together, the connection closes, and current can flow. Without a magnetic field, the switch opens, as does the circuit it's part of.

This reed switch is easy to populate on a PCB and is equipped with a glass enclosure. While this has been shown to be better for sensing magnetic triggers, we recommend you handle it with care, as it can break more easily than one with plastic insulation.