Capacitive load

In case a capacitor is connected in series or in parallel with a Reed switch in a closed circuit, the in-rush current, which fl ows during charge and discharge of the capacitor, will cause deterioration of the Reed contacts. In this situation, the easiest and more effective solution is to position a resistance in series to the Reed switch or, in general, a resistance properly set in order to cut the maximum value of the currents of charge and discharge.

Here are two examples of circuit, in which the energy, stored in the capacitive load “C”, generates rush currents discharging through the Reed contact. The use of a properly calibrated resistance reduces the value of these currents and protects the operating life of the Reed contact.