Was just wondering if any switch would be suitable as a power switch for 230V AC?
I'm hoping to use an 'angel eye' LED latching switch for a HiFi build, but wasn't sure if there would be an issue (as usually these switches are rated for a certain voltage)
I'm hoping to use an 'angel eye' LED latching switch for a HiFi build, but wasn't sure if there would be an issue (as usually these switches are rated for a certain voltage)
For switching 230V AC you need a switch or relay rated for switching 230V AC. It will specify a maximum current, and may show two currents for resistive or inductive loads.
Please only use a switch stamped with the 230VAC rating. The use of others could be dangerous or fatal.
Thank you very much for your responses.
Slightly disappointed that I won't be able to use the switch, perhaps as a standby...
What actually is the difference between switches which are rated for such a high voltage, and standard DC switches?
Slightly disappointed that I won't be able to use the switch, perhaps as a standby...
What actually is the difference between switches which are rated for such a high voltage, and standard DC switches?
Most switches are rated for, and can handle, 32 VDC, but the AC rating depends on the construction.
If it isn't stamped 250VAC, don't use it. Instead, you could use your low voltage switch to control
a 5v/12V relay coil in a 250VAC rated relay.
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Probably the most stressful thing that a switch must do is interrupt an existing flow of current. If the voltage is high, or the load is inductive then the potential for arcing at the switch contacts increases.
If the load is something like a passively filtered DC power supply with large filter capacitors and low source impedance, or tungsten filament light bulbs then there is also a demanding current surge at the time initial power is applied. This is a different kind of load, and switches that are built to handle it may have separate ratings for it.
High voltage switches are primarily built to interrupt high voltages and deal with the local arcing that may be involved with doing that.
Switching 230Vac is much easier than switching high current dc. The zero crossings extinguish the arcing. The only issue with 230V is keeping safety clearance from the mains to the chassis and the switch operator. The 230Vac rating is a guarantee that this is met
Please excuse me if I'm not allowed to directly link products but, would this switch be suitable?
CMP 19mm Latching Push Button Switch 230V Blue LED Lamp 5pin CE TÜV Listed New | eBay
It seems identical to the one I currently have, but presumably the internal components are different?
CMP 19mm Latching Push Button Switch 230V Blue LED Lamp 5pin CE TÜV Listed New | eBay
It seems identical to the one I currently have, but presumably the internal components are different?
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