The unit looks like a miniature 22 shell.
The flange on the unit indicates the aft end of the switch.
If used in a body under acceleration (or deceleration) such as a rocket, car, or airplane the switch would react to the force of gravity and close its contacts.
For typical rocketry applications, starting a timer or make-wire or break-wire initiation, the 2.1g switch is the most appropriate and widely used switch.
We have also seen the .5g switch used in racing applications as a brake light component. Rather than using a switch under the brake pedal the .5g switch is mounted in a box covered with red LEDs on the rear of the vehicle with a battery pack.
As the switch closes when exposed to negative gs the LEDs light up as a normal brake light would.
Part # | G Switch Type One Mil-Spec Hardware Rated for 50,000 G's |
Package | Hermetically sealed TO-18 axial lead |
Dimensions | 0.43"x0.19" |
Weight | < 2.0 grams |
Direction | Linear |
Activation Level in g, +/- 10% (select from above drop down menu) | 5.5g, 1044g, 3500g |
Contacts | Normally Open (Normally Closed - model "2.1g NC" only) |
Contact Rating | 250mA at 24 VDC < 10Ohms |
Insulating Resistance | 30 MOhm minimum |
Operating Temp. | -65deg F to +185deg F |