Reed Switches Explained: Simple, Reliable, and Versatile
In the ever-evolving world of electronics, some components remain remarkably simple yet crucial. One such unsung hero is the reed switch a tiny, magnetically operated switch used in countless applications. Despite their minimalistic design, reed switches are known for being incredibly reliable, durable, and versatile across a wide range of industries. What is a Reed Switch? A reed switch consists of two ferromagnetic blades (reeds) sealed inside a glass tube. These reeds are slightly separated but come into contact when exposed to a magnetic field. When the magnetic field is removed, the reeds return to their original positions, breaking the circuit. It’s that simple. Depending on the design, reed switches can be normally open (NO) remaining open until a magnetic field is present—or normally closed (NC) remaining closed until the magnet is removed. How Does a Reed Switch Work? The operation of a reed switch is entirely dependent on the presence or absence of a magnetic field. Whe...