Pilot lights, (also known as power indicator lights) can be used to indicate when a machine or industrial process has started or stopped. This could be done by changing the colour of illumination (red/green) or by momentary blinking or flashing. These lights can usually be found on the machine or an easily accessible control panel to allow them to be operated easily. Pilot lights can even be used in hazardous areas dependent on the materials used to create them and those with a high IP rating

RS have a great range of pilot lights which can come as complete units or just the pilot light head. These lights can be replaced and are available in various shapes, colours and sizes and are compatible with various voltages. Versions with LED lamps inside generally have a long lamp life and can last many thousands of hours. Most pilot lights come with the standard module itself, an interchangeable operator and a contact block.

Typical Applications

Pilot lights are indicating lights for machines or instruments and they can also be built into switches. They provide solutions for a variety of requirements and are ideal for highly reliable indication. Some pilot lights have high IP ratings of IP67 meaning they offer complete protection against contact (dust tight) and immersion into water of up to 1 meter in depth. They can be found in a number of places including the following:

• Automotive
• Automatic equipment
• Telephones
• Condition panels
• Dashboard lights
• Commercial buildings