Reed Relays are electromechanical switches comprising a pair of magnetic contacts (reeds) sealed in a glass tube. When a magnetic field generated by a coil actuates the reeds, they flex to make or break an electrical connection. Their hermetic sealing ensures contamination resistance, making them critical in precision applications like automation, telecommunications, and medical devices.
| Type | Function Features | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) | Simple on/off switching with one contact pair | Basic circuit control in consumer electronics |
| SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) | Three-terminal switch for circuit redirection | Signal routing in test equipment |
| DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw) | Dual independent circuits with synchronized switching | Motor reversal circuits in industrial machinery |
| High-Frequency Reed Relays | Optimized for RF/microwave signal integrity | 5G base station switching modules |
| High-Power Reed Relays | Rated for >10A currents with arc suppression | Automotive battery management systems |
A typical Reed Relay consists of:
| Parameter | Typical Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Coil Voltage | 3V-48V DC | Determines actuation power consumption |
| Contact Current | 1A-15A | Defines load capacity for circuit design |
| Operate Time | 0.1ms-5ms | Critical for high-speed automation |
| Insulation Resistance | >1012 | Ensures signal integrity in medical devices |
| Life Cycle | 107-109 operations | Affects maintenance intervals in industrial systems |
Major industries include:
| Manufacturer | Representative Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| TE Connectivity | KILOVAC EV200 | 1500VDC isolation for EV charging |
| Omron Electronics | G6K-2P-Y-DC5 | Ultra-compact DPDT with 200mW coil |
| Fujitsu Component | FBR12W-K-C | 10GHz RF performance for 5G testers |
| Hamlin by TE | HE721-ND | Medical-grade isolation for patient monitors |
Key considerations:
Emerging developments: