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    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

    1100 Products showing for Capacitive, Magnetic and Piezo Switches

    1 of 55
    RS PRO Capacitive Switch Latching, Momentary,Illuminated, RGB, NPN, IP68
    • RS Stock No. 175-8616
    Each (In a Tray of 20)
    £31.489
    RS PRO IP67 SPST Cable Mount Reed Switch, 0.5A 100Vdc
    • RS Stock No. 268-4849
    Each
    £13.30
    RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68
    • RS Stock No. 175-8642
    Each (In a Tray of 20)
    £37.742
    RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68
    • RS Stock No. 175-9553
    1 Pack of 1
    £39.65
    RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68
    • RS Stock No. 175-9533
    1 Pack of 1
    £34.09
    Otto IP68S Through Hole Thumbwheel Switch Thumbwheel
    • RS Stock No. 737-3762
    • Mfr. Part No. HTWM-1A12A22
    Each
    £90.18
    RS PRO Capacitive Switch Latching NO,Illuminated, Blue, White, IP68 Brass
    • RS Stock No. 823-2741
    Each
    £35.57
    RS PRO Capacitive Switch Momentary NO,Illuminated, Green, IP68 Brass
    • RS Stock No. 823-2769
    Each
    £41.03
    Bulgin Capacitive Switch Momentary NO,Illuminated, IP68 Stainless Steel
    • RS Stock No. 208-8226
    • Mfr. Part No. MC19MOSRG
    Each
    £30.83
    Kelag IP65 Normally Open Switch Surface Mount Magnetic Proximity Sensor, 500mA 140V
    • RS Stock No. 283-7594
    • Mfr. Part No. KRS010-AH1L08L9
    Each
    £3.22
    RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68
    • RS Stock No. 175-8647
    Each (In a Tray of 20)
    £35.76
    Assemtech Magnet for use with Rectangular Reed Switches
    • RS Stock No. 613-8202
    • Mfr. Part No. MMPSM
    Each
    £2.58
    Assemtech SPST Reed Switch, 3A
    • RS Stock No. 909-2815
    • Mfr. Part No. GC1513 (80-95AT)
    Each (In a Bag of 10)
    £3.857
    Assemtech SPST Reed Switch, 3A
    • RS Stock No. 909-2780
    • Mfr. Part No. GC3823 (60-70AT)
    Each (In a Bag of 10)
    £2.485
    Otto Hall Effect Switch Button Through Hole, -40 → +85°C
    • RS Stock No. 294-252
    • Mfr. Part No. HPL-3322212
    Each
    £62.17
    VCC Capacitive Switch,Illuminated, Green
    • RS Stock No. 137-1352
    • Mfr. Part No. CTHS15CIC05ONOFF
    Each
    £6.13
    RS PRO Illuminated Piezo Switch, Momentary, IP68
    • RS Stock No. 175-9614
    1 Pack of 1
    £23.30
    KEMET SPST Through Hole Reed Switch, 270mA 264V ac
    • RS Stock No. 188-1006
    • Mfr. Part No. TRS5-40BLRVU
    Each
    £13.65
    Bulgin Capacitive Switch Momentary NO,Illuminated, IP68 Stainless Steel
    • RS Stock No. 208-8321
    • Mfr. Part No. MC16MOSGR
    Each
    £24.56
    APEM Piezo Switch, Momentary, 1NO, IP68, IP69K, Flying Lead, 1 A, -40 → +75°C Natural
    • RS Stock No. 165-3177
    • Mfr. Part No. PBAM1AF0002
    Each
    £42.99
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    Guides & Articles

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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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    Touch Switches Guide
    In this guide, we look closely at the various types of touch switches available, as well as giving a brief overview of how different touch switches work.
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