Wells 2E-45239

PROXIMITY/REED SWITCH ASSEMBLY

Proximity switches or sensors measure "closeness" to a targeted object and open or close an electrical circuit when they make contact with or come within a certain distance of an object. There are four basic types of proximity switches: infrared, acoustic, capacitive, and inductive.

Magnetic reed switches are used commonly in restaurant equipment. The reed switch is an electrical switch operated by an applied magnetic field. The contacts are usually normally open (NO), closing when a magnetic field is present, or they may be normally closed (NC) and will open when a magnetic field is applied. The switch may be actuated by an electromagnetic coil or by bringing a permanent magnet near it. When the magnetic field is removed, the contacts in the reed switch return to their default position.

In electrical engineering, a switch is an electrical component that can disconnect or connect the conducting path in an electrical circuit, interrupting the electric current or diverting it from one conductor to another. Switches of all types are used in the operation of restaurant equipment. The most common type of switch is an electro-mechanical device consisting of one or more sets of movable electrical contacts connected to external circuits. When a pair of contacts is touching, current can pass between them, while when the contacts are separated no current can flow.