Switch probes

Presence Tests with Switch Probes

Switch probes are contact probes that close (NO - Normally Open) or open (NC - Normally Closed) an electrical circuit after a defined switching travel. This connection remains beyond the switching point. Switch probes with Off-On-Off characteristic have a defined switching zone realized by two switching points. After a defined travel, the switch is closed and it opens again after a further defined travel.

Applications:

Presence tests of components or connectors
Insulated presence test with plastic heads
Short-circuit-proof modules by galvanically insulated switch elements
Realization of intrinsically safe circuit by using a switch probe

Combi-Receptacles

Combination receptacles (KB receptacles) allow switch probes (plug-in and threaded versions) to be replaced quickly and without soldering for maintenance purposes, and without having to unmount the module or fixture. Safe connections of both signal circuits (inner and outer contact) are realised by spring elements in the receptacle when inserting the probe.

Advantages:

Solderless change of switch probes
No wiring errors after maintenance
Time and cost savings for maintenance
Possibility of height adjustment of switch probes via the probe thread and pressure marks at the receptacle

Switch Probe with Ball Head for Lateral Contacting

These versions allow lateral detection of components and contours, as lateral forces are being deflected.

Function:
Due to a free-rolling ball, the forces occurring from the side can be deflected and used to actuate the integrated switch. This principle means that the probes leave no scratch marks on the contact surface and protect the test item. Also, switch probes with a ball head have a much longer lifetime in applications with lateral contacts than conventional contact probes with a rounded head.

Typical applications:
Lateral presence detection of components and connectors, holes and screws in test modules.