Switches are an essential part of everyday life. Whether you’re turning on a light, starting an appliance, or operating a piece of machinery, switches play a crucial role. Among the many types of switches available, normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) switches are two of the most commonly used. Understanding their differences and functionality can help you choose the right type for your projects or applications.
In this blog, we’ll explain what these two switches are, how they work, and highlight the differences between them.
What Does a Normally Closed Switch Mean?
A normally closed (NC) switch is a type of switch that is closed by default, meaning the circuit is complete when the switch is not being operated. The term “closed” refers to the electrical connection being made, allowing current to flow. When you press or trigger the switch, it opens, interrupting the flow of electricity. In simpler terms, in the rest position (without any external action), the switch allows electricity to flow. It’s only when activated that it breaks the circuit.
This type of switch is commonly used when you want an action to occur by default until the user interrupts it. For example, a door alarm that triggers when the door is opened will use a normally closed switch. When the door is closed, the circuit is complete, and the alarm stays off. Opening the door opens the circuit, turning the alarm on.
What Is the Normally Closed Switch in the Operated Condition?
When a normally closed switch in the operated condition, it is open. This means that the circuit is broken, and no current flows. The switch has been activated, either by pressing, flipping, or otherwise triggering the mechanism that opens it.
The operated condition is simply the switch in its active state, where its purpose is to stop current from flowing. For example, in a safety system, the normally closed switch could act as a safeguard, ensuring that power is cut off when a certain condition is met.
In other words, when you press the button or take action, you break the circuit, and the system responds accordingly by turning off, stopping a motor, or triggering an alarm.
What Is the Difference Between NC and NO Switch?
The main difference between normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) switches is the state of the electrical circuit when the switch is in its resting position.
- Normally Closed (NC): As mentioned, an NC switch is closed by default. This means that the circuit is complete and current can flow through the system when the switch is not activated. When you press or activate the switch, it opens and interrupts the flow of electricity.
- Normally Open (NO): On the other hand, a NO switch remains open by default. This means that the circuit is incomplete, and no current flows until the switch is activated. When the switch is pressed or triggered, it closes, allowing electricity to flow and completing the circuit.
Here’s a quick summary:
- NC switch: Current flows when the switch is not activated (closed state).
- NO switch: No current flows when the switch is not activated (open state).
The choice between NC and NO depends on the application and desired function. For example, in a light switch, an NO switch is common because the light only turns on when the switch is pressed. However, in a safety shutdown system, an NC switch might be used to ensure that the system stays active unless manually shut off.
Does a Normally Closed Switch Have Continuity?
Yes, a normally closed switch has continuity when it is in its default state (unoperated). This means that when the switch is not being pressed or activated, the electrical circuit remains complete, and current can flow through the system.
However, when you activate the switch (pressing it or triggering it), the continuity is broken, and the circuit is opened. So, continuity only exists when the NC switch is in its resting state. If you’re measuring continuity with a multimeter, you’ll find that it indicates continuity (a closed circuit) unless the switch is activated.
How Does a Normal Switch Work?
A “normal” switch, referring to either NC or NO switches, works by physically opening or closing a circuit. These switches can be triggered manually or automatically, depending on their design and purpose.
For a normally closed switch, the default state is that the switch is closed, allowing electricity to pass through. Once triggered (usually by pressing a button or a mechanical action), the circuit opens, stopping the current flow. For a normally open switch, the default state is open, meaning the circuit is incomplete. When the switch is activated, it closes, allowing current to flow through the circuit.
The key point is that switches control the flow of electricity in a simple and reliable manner, often in response to user actions or automated triggers. This makes them ideal for a wide variety of applications, from everyday appliances to complex machinery.
How to Check a Normally Closed Switch?
To check if a normally closed switch is functioning properly, you can use a multimeter to test continuity. Here’s how:
1. Set the multimeter to continuity mode: This will help you determine whether or not the switch is closed (allowing current to pass).
2. Test the switch in its default state: With the switch not being operated (not pressed), place the multimeter probes across the terminals of the switch. If the multimeter beeps or shows continuity, this means the switch is functioning as a normally closed switch.
3. Test the switch when operated: Press or activate the switch. The multimeter should no longer show continuity, indicating that the switch has opened and interrupted the flow of electricity.
If the multimeter shows continuity in both states, then the switch may be faulty and should be replaced.
FAQs
1. Can a normally closed switch be used as a safety feature?
Yes, a normally closed switch is often used as a safety feature. For example, in a safety shutdown system, it ensures that the circuit remains closed (allowing power to flow) until a specific condition triggers the switch to open and stop the power.
2. What are the common applications of normally closed switches?
Normally closed switches are commonly used in alarm systems, safety circuits, and emergency stop mechanisms. They are ideal when you want the system to remain active unless specifically interrupted by the switch.
3. What is the advantage of using a normally closed switch?
The main advantage of using an NC switch is its ability to default to a closed state, ensuring continuity in the circuit. This is useful in systems where you want the circuit to be active under normal conditions and only disrupted when needed.
4. Can normally closed switches be used in high-voltage applications?
Yes, NC switches can be used in high-voltage applications, provided they are rated appropriately for the voltage and current involved. Make sure to choose a switch designed for the specific electrical characteristics of the system.
5. Are normally closed switches more reliable than normally open switches?
The reliability of a switch depends on the application. Both NC and NO switches are reliable when used correctly, but NC switches are typically more reliable in systems where continuity is required unless manually interrupted.