Reed Relays Reed relays are compact electrical switches that use two ferromagnetic reeds sealed inside a glass envelope. When a coil is energized, the reeds move to contact each other, completing a circuit. The coil and the contact circuit remain electrically isolated, allowing switching of low power signals with minimal interference. Key benefits - Electrical isolation between coil and contact circuit reduces signal interference and noise - Fast actuation with minimal contact bounce supports precise switching - Very small form factor enables dense mounting and compact assemblies - Low power coil options improve energy efficiency in portable or battery powered equipment - High reliability and long service life suitable for routine switching tasks - Sealed contacts provide stable performance in typical environmental conditions Configurations and compatibility - Available contact arrangements include SPST normally open, SPST normally closed, and SPDT variants - Suitable for switching low to moderate current and voltage signals in instrumentation and control applications - Generally compatible with PCB mounting; model variants cover through hole and surface mount options - Coil voltage options are offered across models to match common control circuitry Size and materials - Compact glass envelope houses the reed contacts - Coil composed of insulated copper wire wound around a magnetic core - Protective encapsulation helps withstand handling and assembly processes Performance characteristics - Low contact resistance supports clean signal transmission - High isolation between coil and contact circuit minimizes coupling and interference - Rapid switching response suitable for multiplexing and routing tasks - Designed for reliable operation across standard laboratory and industrial environments Applications and use scenarios - Instrumentation and test equipment for selecting measurement channels and routing signals - Data acquisition systems and signal multiplexers in benchtop or rack setups - Prototyping and small scale production requiring compact, dependable signal switching - Automotive test rigs, consumer electronics prototyping, and lab equipment where controlled switching is needed Selection guidance - Choose coil voltage to match the control drive capability and ensure the coil operates within its rated current - Select the appropriate contact form and number of poles to meet the desired routing and load - Consider environment and mounting to pick the suitable package and seal for reliability - Verify contact ratings and life expectations for the intended duty cycle and signals