RI-23C Reed Switch SPST-NO Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The RI-23C is a glass body reed switch manufactured by Comus International, classified as SPST-NO (single pole, single throw, normally open) configuration. This component is rated for 500mA switching at 140V AC and 200V DC, with 10W power handling capability and an operate range of 46–70AT. The RI-23C has reached obsolete product status, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for design continuity and procurement planning.

Substiute Parts

RI-23C

Comus InternationalIn Stock: 689RI-23C Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

RI-23GP-5055

Comus InternationalIn Stock: 2557RI-23GP-5055 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

MDSR-4-32-38

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 1064MDSR-4-32-38 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the RI-23C reed switch is determined by alignment of the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Circuit configuration (SPST-NO)
• Current switching capability (500mA minimum)
• Voltage ratings (140V AC / 200V DC minimum)
• Power handling (10W minimum)
• Mounting type (Through Hole)
• Termination style (Axial)
• Operating temperature range coverage (−55°C to 125°C)

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Operate range and release range alignment
• Operate and release time specifications
• Physical dimensions (length and body diameter)
• RoHS and REACH compliance status

The two substitute parts identified are grouped as follows:

Group 1 - Comus International RI-23GP-5055: Direct manufacturer series offering, same electrical specifications, narrower operate range (50–55AT vs. 46–70AT), active product status.

Group 2 - Littelfuse Inc. MDSR-4-32-38: Cross-manufacturer alternative with differing operate range (32–38AT) and modified physical dimensions; DC-only switching specification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

RI-23GP-5055 Selection Criteria: The RI-23GP-5055 is recommended as the primary substitute when direct compatibility with Comus International RI series design characteristics is required. This part maintains identical electrical performance (500mA AC/DC switching, 140V AC / 200V DC, 10W power rating) and mechanical compatibility (identical dimensions, through-hole axial termination). The RI-23GP-5055 operates within a subset of the original operate range (50–55AT) and offers active product status with ROHS3 compliance, ensuring long-term availability and regulatory alignment.

MDSR-4-32-38 Selection Criteria: The MDSR-4-32-38 from Littelfuse Inc. serves as a cross-manufacturer alternative for applications with specific operate range requirements (32–38AT) and DC-only switching environments. Selection of this part requires verification that the application operates exclusively in DC mode, as AC switching capability is not specified. The lower DC current carrying capability (1.2A vs. 2.75A) and reduced low-temperature operating limit (−40°C vs. −55°C) must be evaluated against application requirements. This part exhibits active product status and ROHS3 compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the RI-23GP-5055 directly replace the obsolete RI-23C in all applications? A: The RI-23GP-5055 provides electrical and mechanical compatibility for the majority of applications. The key difference is the operate range specification (50–55AT for RI-23GP-5055 vs. 46–70AT for RI-23C). Applications requiring magnetic field activation below 50AT or above 55AT will not function with the RI-23GP-5055. Verify your application's magnetic field strength specifications before substitution.

Q: What is the primary limitation of the MDSR-4-32-38? A: The MDSR-4-32-38 is specified for 500mA DC switching only; AC switching performance is not provided. Applications requiring AC switching capability (such as 140V AC circuits) must use either the RI-23C or RI-23GP-5055. Additionally, the lower DC current carrying capability (1.2A) and reduced cold-temperature operating range (−40°C minimum) may not satisfy all legacy applications.

Q: How do physical dimensions affect substitution? A: The RI-23GP-5055 maintains identical overall length (1.811") and body diameter (0.100"), providing direct mechanical fit in existing through-hole designs. The MDSR-4-32-38 exhibits different dimensions (1.590" length, 0.090" body diameter), which may require PCB layout modifications or mechanical redesign depending on board space constraints and housing clearances.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS compliant? A: Yes. The RI-23C is RoHS Compliant; both substitutes (RI-23GP-5055 and MDSR-4-32-38) carry ROHS3 Compliant status, ensuring alignment with current environmental and regulatory requirements. All three parts are REACH Unaffected.

Q: Which substitute should I select for a new design? A: For new designs, the RI-23GP-5055 is the recommended first choice due to its active product status, Comus International manufacturer continuity, and direct electrical and mechanical compatibility. The MDSR-4-32-38 should be selected only when the application's specific operate range requirement (32–38AT) and DC-only environment create a technical advantage over the RI-23GP-5055.