Capacitive, Magnetic and Piezo Switches

Capacitive, Magnetic, and Piezo Switches are types of electronic switches that operate based on different principles. Let's explore each of them:

  1. Capacitive Switches: Capacitive switches use the principle of capacitance to detect touch or proximity. They typically have a touch-sensitive surface that acts as one plate of a capacitor, while the other plate is usually a ground plane or a separate electrode. When a conductive object, such as a finger, comes close to or touches the touch-sensitive surface, it changes the capacitance, which is then detected by the switch's electronics. Capacitive switches are commonly used in touchscreens, touch-sensitive buttons, and proximity sensors.
  2. Magnetic Switches: Magnetic switches, also known as magnetic reed switches, use the presence or absence of a magnetic field to control the switch's operation. They consist of two metal reeds that are hermetically sealed within a glass tube. Each reed contains magnetically sensitive material. When a magnetic field is applied near the switch, the reeds are attracted to each other, and the switch closes, allowing current to flow. When the magnetic field is removed, the reeds separate, and the switch opens. Magnetic switches are often used in applications such as security systems, door and window sensors, and proximity sensors.
  3. Piezo Switches: Piezo switches utilize the piezoelectric effect to convert mechanical stress or pressure into an electrical signal. They consist of a piezoelectric material, such as certain crystals or ceramics, that generates an electric charge when subjected to mechanical deformation. When pressure or force is applied to the switch, it causes the piezoelectric material to deform, generating an electrical signal. This signal can be used to trigger a switching action. Piezo switches are commonly found in applications where a robust and reliable switch is required, such as industrial control panels, medical equipment, and automotive applications.

Each type of switch has its own advantages and limitations. Capacitive switches offer touch-sensitive and non-mechanical operation but may be affected by moisture or dirt. Magnetic switches are highly reliable and can operate in harsh environments but require the presence of a magnetic field. Piezo switches are durable and can withstand high forces, but they require mechanical pressure to operate and are typically more expensive.

Capacitive Switches
Capacitive Switches
Hall Effect Switches
Hall Effect Switches
Piezo Switches
Piezo Switches
Reed Switch Magnets
Reed Switch Magnets
Reed Switches
Reed Switches
Thumbwheel Switches
Thumbwheel Switches

1052 Products showing for Capacitive, Magnetic and Piezo Switches

1 of 53
Limited stock
Otto IP68S Solder Thumbwheel Switch Snap-in
  • RS Stock No. 737-3762
  • Mfr. Part No. HTWM-1A12A22
Subtotal (1 unit)
£92.89(exc. VAT)
In Stock
RS PRO Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68, 1 A, 65 °C, -20 °C
  • RS Stock No. 175-9533
Subtotal (1 pack of 1 unit)
£35.46(exc. VAT)
In Stock
RS PRO Capacitive switch Latching, Momentary Illuminated, RGB, NPN, IP68
  • RS Stock No. 175-9517
Subtotal (1 pack of 1 unit)
£49.52(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Bulgin Capacitive switch Latching NO Illuminated, Green, Red, On-Off, IP69K, IP68 Stainless Steel
  • RS Stock No. 208-8003
  • Mfr. Part No. MC25LOSRG
Subtotal (1 unit)
£47.16(exc. VAT)
In Stock
RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68, 1 A, 65 °C, -20 °C
  • RS Stock No. 175-9552
Subtotal (1 pack of 1 unit)
£43.53(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Assemtech Reed Switch Magnet for use with Reed switch
  • RS Stock No. 909-2856
  • Mfr. Part No. MKIT-P1456
Subtotal (1 kit)
£11.92(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Littelfuse Flange Reed Sensor 1.5 A 400 V
  • RS Stock No. 283-5608
  • Mfr. Part No. 59140-010
Subtotal (1 unit)
£2.87(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Schurter Illuminated Piezo Switch, SPST, IP67 Through Hole, 100 mA, 85 °C, -40 °C
  • RS Stock No. 607-7040
  • Mfr. Part No. 1241.3012
Subtotal (1 unit)
£87.06(exc. VAT)
Temporarily out of stock
RS PRO Piezo Switch, Momentary (NO), SPST, IP69 Flexible Wire, 200 mA, 75 °C, -20 °C Natural
  • RS Stock No. 259-1136
Subtotal (1 unit)
£37.94(exc. VAT)
In Stock
CAMDENBOSS Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, SPST, IP68 Wire, 0.2 A, 70 °C, 20 °C Red
  • RS Stock No. 817-9961
  • Mfr. Part No. CPS22IR-ALNA-24RG
Subtotal (1 unit)
£21.50(exc. VAT)
In Stock
RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68, 1 A, 65 °C, -20 °C
  • RS Stock No. 175-9553
Subtotal (1 pack of 1 unit)
£41.25(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Schurter Piezo Switch, IP67 Solder, 100 mA, 60 °C, -20 °C Black
  • RS Stock No. 456-1852
  • Mfr. Part No. 1241.2411.7
Subtotal (1 unit)
£21.28(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Omron Capacitive switch NC, Red, Green, IP67
  • RS Stock No. 215-5321
  • Mfr. Part No. D5B-1513
Subtotal (1 unit)
£64.08(exc. VAT)
In Stock
Bulgin Capacitive switch Momentary NO Illuminated, Red, Green, On-Off, IP68 Stainless Steel
  • RS Stock No. 208-8322
  • Mfr. Part No. MC16MOSRG
Subtotal (1 unit)
£30.57(exc. VAT)
In Stock
APEM Capacitive switch Momentary Momentary, Latching Illuminated, Red, Green, NPN, IP69K, IP68
  • RS Stock No. 205-8743
  • Mfr. Part No. CPB2110000KGSS
Subtotal (1 unit)
£66.11(exc. VAT)
In Stock
DiodesZetex Hall Effect Sensor 4 mA 60 mA Latching Solder Terminal Open Drain Maintained, 105 °C, -40 °C, 28V dc, 3 V dc
  • RS Stock No. 246-7395
  • Mfr. Part No. AH3762Q-P-B
Subtotal (1 pack of 10 units)
£5.06(exc. VAT)
In Stock
RS PRO Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68, 1 A, 65 °C, -20 °C
  • RS Stock No. 175-9614
Subtotal (1 pack of 1 unit)
£24.24(exc. VAT)
In Stock
RS PRO SPST Cable Reed Switch 0.5 A 100 V dc
  • RS Stock No. 268-4849
Subtotal (1 unit)
£13.84(exc. VAT)
Stocked by manufacturer
WIKA SPDT Through Hole Magnetic Reed Switch 1 A 230 V
  • RS Stock No. 267-6372
  • Mfr. Part No. 48770069
Subtotal (1 unit)
£84.61(exc. VAT)
In Stock
APEM Piezo Switch, SPST, IP68 Flying Lead, 200 mA, 75 °C, -40 °C
  • RS Stock No. 499-4634
  • Mfr. Part No. PBAR1AF2000
Subtotal (1 unit)
£30.25(exc. VAT)
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Reed Switches Guide
Our guide focuses on reed switches, explaining their applications, how they work, and so much more.
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