High-power reed relays offer alternative to mercury wetted reed relays or electromechanical relays

Pickering Electronics has released its latest high-power reed relay, Series 144, featuring an impressive 80W power rating while stacking on a compact 0.25" pitch. The SIP reed relay delivers a switching current of up to 2A, delivering up to 60W, or 1A for up to 80W, with a continuous carry current of up to 3A. Also, it offers high-voltage capability, with a switching voltage of 1000VDC up to 10W and up to 3kV stand-off.

The company's smallest miniature SIP reed relay with a power rating of up to 80W combines the capacity to effectively switch higher power with outstanding low-level performance, making it an excellent choice where high-power and low-level switching capabilities are needed. Applications include mixed signal semiconductor testers, photovoltaic and EV charging, mining gas analysis, medical electronics, in-circuit test equipment and high-voltage instrumentation. In many cases, the series offers a more environmentally friendly option than mercury wetted reed relays and a superior alternative to electromechanical relays, where its low-level performance and high isolation can prove a significant advantage.

"With its impressive high-power rating, Series 144 provides a greener alternative to mercury wetted reed relays," noted Kevin Mallett, Technical Specialist at Pickering Electronics. "While dry reeds may not provide bounce-free operation, their more eco-friendly construction helps contribute to sustainable practices. Series 144 is also a viable substitute for miniature electromechanical relays (EMRs). Its low-level performance and superior isolation significantly improve efficiency and reliability for many applications – and compared to EMRs, reed relays offer faster-switching speeds and longer mechanical lifespans, further enhancing their appeal."

A maximum switching voltage of 1000VDC up to 10W and the option of 2 or 3kV DC stand-off make these relays suitable across a wide range of applications. The 3kV versions have increased clearance between the switch and the coil pins to accommodate the higher voltage. 1 Form A, 2 Form A, and 1 Form B configurations are available, with 5 V, 12 V or 24 V coils offered, all with optional internal diode protection. Additional build options are also available on request, including many pin configurations. Pickering also offers customised load testing to ensure components meet exact specifications and needs.

Featuring vacuumed reed switches, where contacts are sealed within a glass tube, the construction of reed relays offers advantages over EMRs. This design provides a protective barrier against environmental factors such as dust, moisture and other contaminants. By contrast, EMRs are open in structure, exposing their internal components. This can lead to oxidation over time, particularly in environments with high humidity or airborne pollutants, significantly compromising low-level performance. Reed relays, meanwhile, tend to maintain their performance and reliability over a longer period, making them a preferred choice for applications where durability and longevity are vital.

The company's reed relays are highly reliable due to superior manufacturing and quality control processes. They feature instrumentation-grade sputtered ruthenium contacts rather than the more common electroplated rhodium associated with low-grade reed relays. Along with Pickering SoftCenter technology, which minimises internal stresses on the reed switch, this results in extended operational life and contact resistance stability. Formerless coil construction enables a smaller package than typical for this type of device, while magnetic Mu-Metal screening eradicates problems that would otherwise be experienced due to magnetic interaction when relays are closely stacked.