APEM 5256AB Toggle Switch 3PDT 6A 125V Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The APEM 5256AB is a panel-mounted toggle switch with 3PDT (three-pole, double-throw) circuit configuration, rated for 6A at 125V AC and 4A at 30V DC. This switch is classified as Active product status and is ROHS3 compliant. Equivalent and substitute parts are identified when component availability is limited, supply chain disruptions occur, or inventory requirements necessitate alternative sourcing from qualified manufacturers while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility.

Substiute Parts

5256AB

APEM Inc.In Stock: 8435256AB Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

1003P1T1B1M2QEH

E-SwitchIn Stock: 16771003P1T1B1M2QEH Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

7301SYCQE

C&KIn Stock: 16277301SYCQE Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the APEM 5256AB are qualified based on the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

Critical Compatibility Parameters:

• Circuit configuration: 3PDT
• Switch function: On-On
• Mounting type: Panel Mount
• Termination style: PC Pin
• Bushing thread: 1/4-40
• Panel cutout diameter: Circular configuration

Electrical Performance Parameters:

• Current rating: Minimum 5A AC/DC (APEM rated 6A AC / 4A DC)
• Voltage rating: Minimum 120V AC / 28V DC (APEM rated 125V AC / 30V DC)
• Operating temperature: Minimum -30°C to 85°C range (APEM rated -40°C to 85°C)

Compliance Parameters:

• RoHS3 compliance required
• ECCN: EAR99
• HTSUS: 8536.50.9065

The identified substitute parts meet or exceed these parameters and maintain functional equivalence for panel-mounted 3PDT toggle switch applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

E-Switch 1003P1T1B1M2QEH: This substitute maintains full electrical and mechanical compatibility with the APEM 5256AB. Current ratings of 5A AC/DC and voltage ratings of 120V AC / 28V DC are within acceptable operating parameters for applications designed for the APEM part. ROHS3 compliance and REACH Unaffected status align with the original part specifications. Operating temperature range of -30°C to 85°C covers standard industrial applications, though applications requiring -40°C operation require the APEM part.

C&K 7301SYCQE: This substitute provides equivalent electrical and mechanical functionality with identical circuit configuration, switch function, and mounting specifications. Current and voltage ratings of 5A AC/DC and 120V AC / 28V DC meet substitution criteria. The extended electrical life of 100,000 cycles exceeds the APEM specification of 40,000 cycles. ROHS3 compliance is maintained. REACH Affected status differs from the APEM part; applications subject to REACH regulatory requirements must account for this designation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the E-Switch 1003P1T1B1M2QEH replace the APEM 5256AB in all applications?

A: The E-Switch part is electrically and mechanically compatible for most applications. However, applications requiring operation below -30°C must use the APEM 5256AB, which is rated to -40°C. Current and voltage ratings are slightly lower (5A vs. 6A AC; 28V vs. 30V DC), so applications operating at maximum APEM ratings require the original part.

Q: What is the difference in panel cutout diameter between these parts?

A: The APEM 5256AB requires a 6.50mm circular cutout, while both E-Switch and C&K substitutes require 6.35mm cutouts. Panel modifications may be necessary if switching between these parts in existing installations.

Q: Does the C&K 7301SYCQE REACH Affected status affect substitution eligibility?

A: REACH Affected status indicates the part is subject to REACH regulatory requirements. Applications and supply chains subject to REACH compliance must evaluate whether this designation impacts their sourcing decisions. The APEM part carries REACH Unaffected status.

Q: Are all three parts suitable for high-cycle applications?

A: The APEM 5256AB and E-Switch 1003P1T1B1M2QEH are rated for 40,000 electrical cycles. The C&K 7301SYCQE provides extended life at 100,000 cycles, making it suitable for applications requiring higher cycle counts.

Q: What are the key mechanical compatibility factors?

A: All three parts share identical mounting type (Panel Mount), termination style (PC Pin), and bushing thread (1/4-40). Actuator lengths vary slightly (10.50mm, 10.41mm, and 10.67mm), which may affect panel clearance in space-constrained designs. Panel cutout diameter differences (6.50mm vs. 6.35mm) require consideration for existing panel installations.