SCHURTER is expanding its MSM family of ceramic pushbutton switches with an additional version that features latching action: the MSM LA CS. The biocompatible ON/OFF metal switch can be backlit across the entire surface, making it both visually attractive and highly durable.
The new MSM LA CS ON/OFF switch is equipped with stainless steel housing and actuator made of durable ceramic. The same ceramic is already being used to manufacture the previously introduced MSM CS momentary action switches. The material resists scratches and abrasive chemicals as well as impact; it can also be labeled with highly durable legends.
The non-illuminated version of the MSM LA CS and MSM CS switches are offered with a white actuator surface. Standard or customer-specific black legends are applied directly into the ceramic material. Due to the base material and the labeling process, the inscription is scratch-proof and stands up to common cleaning agents. The illuminated design provides a uniform glow across the entire surface in the desired illumination color (red, green, blue, white, orange). These versions can also be labeled with symbols. The positive labeling is black. Inverse labeling is also possible.
The MSM LA CS pushbutton switch is available with mounting diameters of 19 and 22 mm. The 1- or 2-pole switch has a high impact withstand rating of IK 07 and is rated IP 64 from the front to the contact area. Switching voltage is 250 VAC/125 VDC with switching current up to 12 A. It is suited for use in a temperature range of -20 °C to +85 °C. With actuator travel greater than 5 mm, the MSM LA CS is ideal for applications where increased feedback of the switching status (ON/OFF) is required. In the OFF state, the actuator position protrudes from the housing; in the ON state, it is recessed to the housing. This makes for user-friendly actuation and also prevents inadvertent switching. Equipped with blade terminals, the MSM LA CS can be wired up very quickly: the pre-assembled cable set is plugged into the quickconnect terminals of the microswitch, which is then snapped into the housing. The microswitch is UL, CSA and ENEC approved.
The sturdy stainless steel housing and the actuator made of scratch-proof ceramic make the MSM LA CS latching action and MSM CS momentary action switches especially well-suited for use in equipment operating in harsh environments, or applications that require protection against vandalism. These include, for instance, vending machines, ticket machines, equipment in restaurant operations, public facilities, sanitary facilities as well as applications in hypoallergenic environments such as the medical sector.
Additional information is available at http://www.schurterinc.com/New-Products/Switches.