Advantages and Uses of the Microswitch

How many of you know that the original name of Microswitch is miniature pressure switch? This microswitch requires very little force to operate. These micro switches are most preferred when instant changes are required. Sensitive devices are used in elevators, microwave ovens, fire suppression systems, machinery, industrial equipment controls, and many more. Micro switches are also used in electrical control systems. These are mainly used to turn the devices on or off as per the requirement.

Origin of the microswitch

It is a well known fact that micro switches were invented a long time ago and their use has been around for centuries. The first microswitch model was invented in 1932 in Illinois. Since then, many technological advances and necessary changes have been made to microswitches. These micro switches are designed as per requirement. These microswitches are of variable sizes like a small microswitch, mini microswitches, etc. They are widely used in electronic and electrical appliances. Micro switches are also used for industrial applications. They are also used in door locks to turn on or off and in vehicles as auto starter switches.

How do these microswitches work?

Microswitches work on the turning point mechanism. They consist of an open and closed circuit system to perform rapid actions. It requires minimal force or pressure to change its states from off to on or from on to off. This entirely depends on how it is built and installed.

A spring system is installed in the microswitch for the movement of the actuator. A push button or lever can also be used instead of a spring. With the pressure of this spring, a force is applied to the actuator, giving an instant snap action inside the switch.

This fast action sound can be heard as a click. The required external force depends on the component design.

Micro Switch Uses

These are mainly used in industrial areas. They are also used in our usual household appliances, cars, electronic and electrical appliances, etc.

• They are used in printers to detect paper jams.
• It is used in vending machines for two purposes. As a jam detector and sensor to detect coins when they are inserted.
• Used in elevators as a safety device.
• It is used as a door interlock in microwave ovens.
• It is used to detect the opening and closing position of valves.
• Used in lamps, solenoids, small size motors, etc. as control circuits.
• used as limit switches
• It is used as control switches and also to create timing mechanisms with the combinations of various other devices.

Advantages of the micro switch

Compared to other switches, micro switches are more reliable. They work very precisely. Micro switches can be used repeatedly as they have the least chance of failure. They provide multiple switching positions better than many other switches available on the market. This feature makes micro switches used in safety related products. These are durable and inexpensive. Micro switches are cost effective so they are cheap and better. Many microswitches are of high quality. Micro switches are widely available in the market.