APEM Inc. 302ZQE Pushbutton Switch - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The APEM Inc. 302ZQE is a SPST-NO pushbutton switch rated for 1A at 125V AC and 28V DC, designed for standard panel mount rear installation. This component features a round plunger actuator with solder lug termination and operates across -30°C to 85°C. The 302ZQE series is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing system maintenance and new design implementations where this switch type is required.

Substiute Parts

302ZQE

APEM Inc.In Stock: 987302ZQE Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

8552MZQE2

C&KIn Stock: 31698552MZQE2 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 302ZQE is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:

• Circuit Configuration: SPST-NO (Single Pole Single Throw - Normally Open)
• Switch Function: Off-Mom (Momentary operation)
• Mounting Type: Panel Mount, Rear installation
• Actuator Type: Round, Plunger design
• Termination Style: Solder Lug
• Panel Cutout Dimensions: Circular - 6.35mm Dia
• Voltage Compatibility: AC voltage rating ≥125V and DC voltage rating ≥28V
• Current Capacity: ≥1A (AC/DC)
• Regulatory Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant

The C&K 8552MZQE2 meets all mandatory substitution criteria. While it exhibits higher current capacity (3A) and slightly lower upper operating temperature (-30°C to 65°C versus -30°C to 85°C), these represent functional improvements or acceptable operational boundaries for equivalent application.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The C&K 8552MZQE2 is a direct functional equivalent for the obsolete APEM Inc. 302ZQE. Both components maintain identical circuit topology (SPST-NO), mounting configuration (panel mount rear), actuator design (round plunger), and termination method (solder lug). Panel cutout dimensions are identical, ensuring mechanical compatibility without enclosure modification.

The 8552MZQE2 provides superior current handling capacity (3A versus 1A), which represents a functional enhancement for applications operating at or near the 302ZQE's 1A rating. The substitute maintains full compliance with ROHS3 and MSL-1 requirements. The C&K component is currently in active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability compared to the obsolete 302ZQE.

The operating temperature upper limit of the 8552MZQE2 (65°C) is lower than the 302ZQE (85°C). Applications requiring sustained operation above 65°C require thermal analysis to confirm the substitute remains within acceptable operating boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the C&K 8552MZQE2 directly replace the APEM 302ZQE without circuit modification?

A: Yes. Both components share identical SPST-NO circuit configuration, momentary switch function, solder lug termination, and 6.35mm circular panel cutout dimensions. No circuit or mechanical redesign is required.

Q: What is the significance of the higher 3A current rating on the 8552MZQE2?

A: The substitute's 3A rating exceeds the 302ZQE's 1A specification. For circuits designed to operate at 1A or below, this represents functional margin. Applications requiring current levels between 1A and 3A benefit from the enhanced capacity of the substitute.

Q: Are there compliance differences between these components?

A: Both components are ROHS3 compliant with MSL-1 moisture sensitivity rating. The 8552MZQE2 carries REACH Affected status, while the 302ZQE is REACH Unaffected. Applications subject to REACH regulatory requirements must account for this distinction.

Q: How does the lower electrical life rating of the 8552MZQE2 affect substitution suitability?

A: The 8552MZQE2 specifies 10,000 electrical cycles versus the 302ZQE's 250,000 cycles. For applications with high cycle count requirements, this difference must be evaluated against actual duty cycle expectations. Low-cycle momentary applications typically operate well within the 10,000-cycle specification.

Q: What is the impact of the 65°C upper operating temperature limit on the 8552MZQE2?

A: The substitute's maximum operating temperature is 20°C lower than the 302ZQE. Applications with sustained operation above 65°C require thermal verification to confirm the substitute remains within acceptable operating conditions.

Q: Are packaging differences relevant to component selection?

A: The 302ZQE is supplied in standard packaging, while the 8552MZQE2 is supplied in trays. For production assembly and inventory management, tray packaging may offer handling and storage advantages. Functional performance is unaffected by packaging format.