ABSTRACT
This chapter describes various types of device that are used to switch low current. It deals with a subsection discussing the selection of contact force and the importance of small micro-motions on the switch contacts. The chapter considers the closing operation, referred to as the “make” and the opening operation, referred to as the “break.” It explores the electrical perspective to consider the contact erosion and wear resulting from arcing. The chapter describes a range of hand-operated switching devices. It analyses the mechanical operation of switching devices; consideration is given to the electrical performance in terms of the interaction of arcing on the performance of these devices. The chapter also describes the volumetric change of the electrode surfaces. It provides the phenomenon of contact bounce at make has been considered with respect to the low-current range. Low-current switching devices are used in a range of products, for example; vehicles, domestic appliances, and consumer electronics.
