Micro Switches

What is a micro switch?

A micro switch is a precision mechanical switch that converts the smallest movements into immediate electrical signals. Its core component is a snap-action mechanism that instantly switches the contacts when a pressure point is reached—regardless of how slowly the trigger is moved. This guarantees precise switching operations without contact bounce. Despite their compact design, these switches are extremely robust and designed for millions of switching cycles. They are often used as limit or safety switches to detect positions (e.g., on doors or machine parts). A characteristic "click" provides acoustic feedback about the actuation, which often occurs with a stroke of less than one millimeter.

What are the characteristics of micro switches?

• Snap-action mechanism: This guarantees instantaneous switching of the contacts, regardless of the actuation speed.
• High precision: The switching process is triggered by even the smallest mechanical forces and minimal movements.
• Extreme durability: The robust construction is designed for millions of switching cycles and long-term use.
• Low stroke: Often, a fraction of a millimeter is enough to reliably close or open the electrical contact.
• Acoustic feedback: A distinctive click immediately signals to the user that the mechanical trigger has been successfully activated.
• Compact design: Their small size allows for easy integration into very tightly packed technical devices.
• High switching capacity: Despite their small dimensions, these switches can reliably control high electrical loads.

What are the areas of application for micro switches?

• End position monitoring: They serve as limit switches to check whether a machine part has reached its final position.
• Safety technology: As door contact switches, they ensure that machines only start up when protective devices are closed.
• Tamper protection: In enclosures, they act as tamper switches that immediately trigger an alarm if opened without authorization.
• Automation: Way sensors on machines use them to precisely detect and control movement sequences.
• Control technology: They are used in cam switches to implement complex switching sequences using rotating shafts.
• Household appliances: Here, they monitor the locking of microwave doors or the water level in coffee machines, for example.

ZANDER micro switches are used wherever machine positions have to be identified or switching functions with a high electrical output are essential.

They have proved their reliability and durability since 1950, and are manufactured by us in our factory in Aachen.

All micro switches are equipped with durable quick action contacts, which ensure an abrupt changeover without premature withdrawal of the contacts, even during a slow activation.

Typical applications are path sensors on machines, door contact switches, tamper switches or cam switches.

Please find attached a table with main key figures:

Micro Switch Series KL, KL-B

The single-pole toggle switch allows a switching frequency of 1000 switching operations / min. Under the designation KL..B, the switches are also available with lateral mounting cams.

Micro Switch Series MS

Single-pole changeover contact with high switching capacity, long service life and small dimensions.

Micro Switch Series AS

The proven structure of the KL switching elements is also used with the AS series. AS has a slender design. For this reason, micro switches are particularly suitable for small spaces.

Series DM

Subminiature micro switches for all applications with a high degree of precision and minimum dimensions.

Series SM

Single-pole micro switches with diverse coupling variants such as solder lugs, solder pins, straight and bent.

Series VMN

Micro switches. For the series use, the switches are available in a number of additional variants.

Series CNR, DF, DS, VA2 with different housings also available.

Waterproof types (IP67) are available: DW2, SW, VW1

The pictures of the subminiature micro switches are not true to scale.