Key switch for LEDs ... Is it suitable?

azibux1 · 11 Jan 2013 at 14:38

Hi,

I installed some LED strips (designed for a car) in my case some time ago but had no method for turning them on and off other than removing the molex plug

I had a key switch very similar (but not the exact same) as this one from a project at school ... It was in a battery powered circuit there though

I have installed it in the PC and got it working but I am wondering if anyone knows if it is safe? Don't want it heating up or anything

I am guessing as the PSU turns everything down to 12v or less it should be okay?

Can anyone confirm?

Thanks!

King Damager · 11 Jan 2013 at 15:06

I'm pretty sure it should be ok to be honest. People wire in switches into molex circuits quite frequently in the modding community.

That said, my knowledge of electrics is ropey at best.

kd

Tealc · 11 Jan 2013 at 15:18

Farnell's spec said:
Contact Current Max: 3A

Just keep your LED load lower than this and it will be fine. 36W @ 12v just in case you need clarification.

And just so you know the switch is 250VAC rated so would even work off mains if you felt crazy enough to want to switch a mains powered device with it.

azibux1 · 11 Jan 2013 at 15:19

Thanks

I'm fairly sure it should be okay too (and has been for the 3ish hours I've had my PC on for so far)

azibux1 · 11 Jan 2013 at 15:21

Tealc said:
Just keep your LED load lower than this and it will be fine. 36W @ 12v just in case you need clarification.

And just so you know the switch is 250VAC rated so would even work off mains if you felt crazy enough to want to switch a mains powered device with it.

I see what you're saying but that isn't the switch I have ... It is that 'style' of switch but it was from a battery powered electronics project at school

It is only running 2 LED strips and a 48 LED panel (not currently in the PC as it needs resoldering, first attempt had a loose connection)

Do you think it will be okay?

Tealc · 11 Jan 2013 at 18:55

Oh right didn't read the whole thing.

It'll probably be ok. Worst case scenario is that you fuse the switch contacts and it gets stuck in the on position or it melts a contact and it goes open circuit. No big issue either way.