Magnetic Reed Switch Types: NO, NC, and Shutter Explained with Applications
Choosing the right magnetic reed switch type can make or break your automation or safety system. Whether you’re working on home security, industrial automation, or smart electronics, it’s essential to understand the different types of magnetic reed switches—especially Normally Open (NO), Normally Closed (NC), and Shutter-Type switches.
In this guide, we explain the major magnetic reed switch types, their working principles, and where each one fits best. If you’re looking for a reliable magnetic reed switch manufacturer in India, we’ve also got you covered.
What Are Magnetic Reed Switch Types?
Magnetic reed switches are compact, contact-based switches that open or close an electrical circuit when exposed to a magnetic field. But not all reed switches are the same—different magnetic reed switch types are designed for different behavior.
Let’s break it down.
1. Normally Open (NO) Magnetic Reed Switch
- Default Position: Contacts are open (no current flows).
- When Magnet is Near: Contacts close, allowing current to pass.
Applications
- Door open sensors
- Security alarms
- Smart home automation
Why use NO: Normally Open reed switches are ideal for systems that should only activate when the magnet is present. They’re energy-efficient and commonly used in motion or intrusion detection setups.
2. Normally Closed (NC) Magnetic Reed Switch
- Default Position: Contacts are closed (current flows).
- When Magnet is Near: Contacts open, breaking the circuit.
Applications
- Industrial machinery interlocks
- Elevator shaft sensors
- Emergency doors and hatches
Why choose NC: In safety-critical applications, NC magnetic reed switches offer a fail-safe mechanism. If the wire breaks or the switch is tampered with, the circuit opens—triggering a warning or safety stop.
3. Shutter-Type (Tamper-Proof) Magnetic Switch
- Design: Requires precise alignment of the magnet; often shielded.
- Function: Prevents accidental or malicious triggering.
Applications
- ATMs and lockers
- Server racks and vaults
- High-security installations
Advantage: This tamper-proof magnetic reed switch type is preferred in environments where unauthorized access or false activation must be avoided.
How to Select the Right Magnetic Reed Switch Type
Use this quick guide to make a smarter decision:
|
Magnetic Reed Switch Type |
Best For |
Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|
|
NO (Normally Open) |
Smart homes, lighting, basic alarms |
Saves power, triggers only when needed |
|
NC (Normally Closed) |
Industrial safety, elevators |
Fail-safe, activates on circuit break |
|
Shutter-Type |
Banks, ATMs, security cabinets |
Tamper-proof, highly secure |
Tips for Installing Magnetic Reed Switches (All Types)
- Distance matters: Keep within the specified activation range.
- Test with multimeter: Ensure contact opens/closes as expected.
- Secure mount: Vibration or loose placement can cause misfiring.
- Magnet polarity: Pay attention to alignment for shutter-type switches.
Looking for Reliable Magnetic Reed Switches in India?
We supply high-performance magnetic reed switches—NO, NC, and shutter-style—to industries across India. Our switches are used in:
- Automation systems in Pune and Bengaluru
- Security panels in Delhi NCR
- Smart elevators in Mumbai
- Industrial gates in Ahmedabad and Chennai
Whether you need a few pieces for prototyping or bulk quantities for OEM production, our team is ready to help you select the right magnetic reed switch type.
Conclusion: Know Your Magnetic Reed Switch Types Before You Install
Understanding the different magnetic reed switch types—Normally Open, Normally Closed, and Shutter—helps you design smarter systems and avoid costly errors. Whether you’re working in automation, security, or machinery, choosing the right type ensures reliability, safety, and performance.