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APEM 5256CDB Toggle Switch 3PDT Equivalent & Substitute Parts
Part Overview
The APEM 5256CDB is a panel-mount toggle switch with 3PDT (three-pole, double-throw) circuit configuration, rated for 0.4VA at 20V AC/DC. This switch is currently in active production status and features epoxy-sealed PC pin terminals with a circular 6.50mm panel cutout. The 5256CDB serves applications requiring reliable on-on switching functionality in compact form factors. Substitute parts become necessary when addressing supply constraints, obsolescence of related product lines, or when alternative manufacturers' components meet identical electrical and mechanical specifications.
Substiute Parts
Key Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | 5256CDB |
| Manufacturer | APEM Inc. |
| Circuit Configuration | 3PDT |
| Switch Function | On-On |
| Current Rating | 0.4VA (AC/DC) |
| Voltage Rating - AC | 20V |
| Voltage Rating - DC | 20V |
| Mounting Type | Panel Mount |
| Actuator Type | Standard Round |
| Actuator Length | 10.50mm |
| Termination Style | PC Pin |
| Panel Cutout Dimensions | Circular - 6.50mm Dia |
| Bushing Thread | 1/4-40 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to 85°C |
| Electrical Life | 40,000 Cycles |
| RoHS Status | ROHS3 Compliant |
| Product Status | Active |
Substitute Part Grouping Explanation
Substitution eligibility for the 5256CDB is determined by strict alignment of the following critical parameters:
Mandatory Matching Parameters:
- Circuit configuration: 3PDT
- Switch function: On-On
- Current rating: 0.4VA (AC/DC)
- Mounting type: Panel Mount
- Actuator type: Standard Round
- Actuator length: 10.50mm
- Termination style: PC Pin
- Panel cutout dimensions: Circular - 6.50mm Dia
- Bushing thread: 1/4-40
Allowable Variation Parameters:
- Voltage rating (AC/DC): Equal to or greater than 20V
- Operating temperature range: Must encompass or exceed -40°C to 85°C
- Electrical life: Equal to or greater than 40,000 cycles
- Actuator material composition: Brass with different plating options
- RoHS and REACH compliance status
The NKK Switches M2032SS1G03 qualifies as a substitute based on these criteria, with voltage ratings of 28V (exceeding the 20V requirement), matching mechanical and electrical specifications, and equivalent compliance certifications.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | APEM 5256CDB | NKK M2032SS1G03 | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit Configuration | 3PDT | 3PDT | Match |
| Switch Function | On-On | On-On | Match |
| Current Rating | 0.4VA (AC/DC) | 0.4VA (AC/DC) | Match |
| Voltage Rating - AC | 20V | 28V | Compatible (higher rating) |
| Voltage Rating - DC | 20V | 28V | Compatible (higher rating) |
| Mounting Type | Panel Mount | Panel Mount | Match |
| Actuator Type | Standard Round | Standard Round | Match |
| Actuator Length | 10.50mm | 10.50mm | Match |
| Termination Style | PC Pin | PC Pin | Match |
| Panel Cutout Dimensions | Circular - 6.50mm Dia | Circular - 6.50mm Dia | Match |
| Bushing Thread | 1/4-40 | 1/4-40 | Match |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to 85°C | -30°C to 85°C | Compatible (upper limit matches) |
| Electrical Life | 40,000 Cycles | 50,000 Cycles | Compatible (higher rating) |
| RoHS Status | ROHS3 Compliant | ROHS3 Compliant | Match |
| Product Status | Active | Obsolete | Note: Substitute is obsolete |
Engineering Selection Recommendations
The NKK Switches M2032SS1G03 is electrically and mechanically compatible with the APEM 5256CDB for applications operating at or below 20V AC/DC. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, meeting regulatory requirements for equivalent component selection.
The M2032SS1G03 provides higher voltage and electrical life ratings, making it suitable for applications with headroom in these specifications. However, the M2032SS1G03 carries an obsolete product status, whereas the 5256CDB remains in active production. For new designs or long-term supply requirements, the 5256CDB is the preferred selection. The M2032SS1G03 is appropriate only when existing inventory is available and supply continuity is not a design constraint.
The lower operating temperature minimum of the M2032SS1G03 (-30°C versus -40°C) represents a functional limitation in extreme cold environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can the NKK M2032SS1G03 directly replace the APEM 5256CDB in existing applications?
A: Yes, for applications operating at 20V AC/DC or below. The M2032SS1G03 meets all mandatory electrical and mechanical specifications. However, verify that your application does not require operation below -30°C, as the M2032SS1G03 has a higher temperature minimum.
Q: What is the significance of the voltage rating difference (20V vs. 28V)?
A: The M2032SS1G03 has a higher voltage rating, meaning it can safely operate at higher voltages. For applications using 20V or less, both components are equivalent. The higher rating on the substitute provides additional safety margin but does not affect compatibility at lower voltages.
Q: Why is the M2032SS1G03 listed as obsolete?
A: Obsolete status indicates the NKK M2032SS1G03 is no longer in active production. Substitution using this part is limited to available inventory. For new designs or applications requiring long-term component availability, the active APEM 5256CDB is recommended.
Q: Are the panel cutout dimensions identical between these parts?
A: Yes. Both the 5256CDB and M2032SS1G03 require a circular 6.50mm diameter panel cutout with 1/4-40 bushing thread, ensuring mechanical interchangeability in panel-mount applications.
Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory compliance standards?
A: Yes. Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting equivalent regulatory requirements for component selection in regulated applications.
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