CIT Relay & Switch has introduced VM3 miniature and SM3 snap-action switches, aiming them at lighting, security, automation, industrial controls and gaming.

“Customisable, the VM3 and SM3 offer a range of actuator lever options including pin plunger, roller levers, hinge levers and simulated rollers,” according to New Jersey-based New Yorker Electronics, which is stocking them. “These electromechanical switches are actuated by very little physical force via a tipping point mechanism and both feature 0.187 or 0.250inch termination options in SPST NO, SPST NC or SPDT functions.” 0.187 and 0.250inch are ~4.8 and ~6.35mm respectively.

VM3 is UL and TÜV approved. Base and cover are made of UL94-V0 PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) with a PBT pin plunger. Contacts are UL94-V0. Actuation force is across 80gF up to 180gF, and there are momentary and latching options.

Body size is 28 x 16 x 10.4mm without contacts or plunger.

SM3 micro Series is UL/cUL approved and offers numerous lever, terminal and actuation force options – operating between 80gF and 350gF as standard.

Actuator styles of this micro switch include pin plunger, simulated roller, short roller lever, long hinge lever and the standard hinge lever. Terminals are 2.54mm  quick-connect, solder lug, PCB pin, right angle PCB pin or left angle PCB pin. Single pole switching options include SPST normally open, SPST normally closed, or SPDT.

Body size is 20 x 10 x 6.8mm.

A 10,000,000 mechancal cycle life is claimed or some of the switches.