I just purchased a PerfectFlite StratoLoggerCF altimeter and the documentation
came with a Switch Warning about failures of the 110/220 rotary switch that
some people have been using for powering electronics. High resistance and
intermittent connection are noted in the document.
The document says “numerous reports” of failures, but I’m curious if this is a
problem with a group/lot of these switches or a pervasive problem to this
particular switch or rotary-type switches in general when used for rocketry.
I’ve used these switches in the past and tested the 4 I’m currently using on
two projects. I’m not detecting any problems with these switches.
Please keep in mind that there are several variations for this make of
switches. Here’s some info on what I have:
Schurter, Voltage Selector Switch, 2 Stages, Series-Parallel, SWA1 or SWA2
Also, it’s interesting that the spec sheet says that the lifetime is 300
operating cycles (without load).
So, does anyone have a personal experience that was bad with these switches?
Also, I think many people would be interested in recommendations on arming
switches both commercial and custom.
Thank you,
Richard Dierking
