RI-46B Reed Switch Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The RI-46B is a glass body reed switch manufactured by Comus International, classified as a SPST-NO (Single Pole Single Throw - Normally Open) switching device. This component operates at 1A with a 250V AC switching capability and 200V DC switching capability, rated for 40W power dissipation. The RI-46B features an operate range of 24 ~ 51AT with a through-hole axial termination configuration.

The RI-46B is currently listed as obsolete. Identifying equivalent substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure component availability for production, and support ongoing maintenance of systems utilizing this reed switch technology.

Substiute Parts

RI-46B

Comus InternationalIn Stock: 737RI-46B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

RI-46GP3035

Comus InternationalIn Stock: 9685RI-46GP3035 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the RI-46B with alternative components is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Manufacturer series (RI-46)
• Circuit configuration (SPST-NO)
• Switching current rating (1A AC/DC)
• Switching voltage ratings (250V AC / 200V DC)
• Power rating (40W)
• Mounting type (Through Hole)
• Termination style (Axial)
• Operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C)
• Physical dimensions and body size

Variable Parameters Allowing Substitution:

• Operate range (actuation threshold in Ampere-Turns)
• Product status (active vs. obsolete)
• Packaging configuration

The RI-46GP3035 qualifies as a direct substitute because it maintains all mandatory electrical and mechanical parameters while offering an active product status and improved inventory availability. The operate range differs (30 ~ 35AT versus 24 ~ 51AT), but both ranges fall within acceptable switching thresholds for the RI-46 series design envelope.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The RI-46GP3035 is the qualified substitute for the obsolete RI-46B reed switch. Selection of this substitute is based on the following engineering criteria:

Electrical Equivalence: The RI-46GP3035 maintains identical switching current (1A AC/DC), switching voltages (250V AC / 200V DC), and power rating (40W) as the RI-46B. Switching response times (0.35 ms operate, 0.03 ms release) are identical.

Mechanical Compatibility: Physical dimensions, body size, mounting type (through-hole), and termination style (axial) are identical between both components. Direct PCB substitution is supported without layout modifications.

Regulatory Compliance: The RI-46GP3035 carries ROHS3 compliance, which supersedes the RoHS compliance of the RI-46B. Both components maintain REACH Unaffected status and identical moisture sensitivity classification (MSL 1).

Product Availability: The RI-46GP3035 is classified as active product status with 9593 units in stock, compared to the obsolete RI-46B with limited remaining inventory. This substitution ensures long-term component availability and supply chain continuity.

Operate Range Consideration: The RI-46GP3035 operates at 30 ~ 35AT, which is a narrower range than the RI-46B (24 ~ 51AT). This narrower range represents a tighter actuation specification suitable for applications requiring more precise magnetic field thresholds within the RI-46 series design envelope.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the RI-46GP3035 be used as a direct replacement for the RI-46B in existing designs?

A: Yes. The RI-46GP3035 is electrically and mechanically equivalent to the RI-46B across all critical parameters including switching current, voltage ratings, power dissipation, operating temperature range, and physical dimensions. Direct PCB substitution is supported without design modifications.

Q: What is the difference between the operate ranges of these two components?

A: The RI-46B operates at 24 ~ 51AT (Ampere-Turns), while the RI-46GP3035 operates at 30 ~ 35AT. Both ranges define the magnetic field threshold at which the reed switch contacts close. The RI-46GP3035 has a narrower, more tightly specified operate range. Applications requiring the broader 24 ~ 51AT range of the RI-46B must evaluate whether the 30 ~ 35AT range of the RI-46GP3035 is compatible with their magnetic field design parameters.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these components?

A: The RI-46B is packaged in standard configuration, while the RI-46GP3035 is supplied in bulk packaging. Both use identical through-hole axial termination. Bulk packaging does not affect electrical or mechanical performance.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference?

A: The RI-46B is classified as obsolete, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited remaining inventory. The RI-46GP3035 is classified as active product, indicating current production and reliable long-term availability. For new designs or production planning, the RI-46GP3035 is the recommended selection.

Q: Are both components RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The RI-46B carries RoHS compliance certification. The RI-46GP3035 carries ROHS3 compliance, which represents an updated and more stringent RoHS standard. Both components meet RoHS requirements and are suitable for applications with RoHS compliance mandates.

Q: What is the current carrying capacity of these reed switches?

A: Both the RI-46B and RI-46GP3035 have a DC current carry rating of 3A. The switching current rating is 1A (AC/DC) for both components. The current carry rating represents the maximum continuous current the contacts can handle without degradation.

Q: Are these components suitable for high-temperature applications?

A: Yes. Both the RI-46B and RI-46GP3035 operate across the temperature range of -55°C to 125°C, supporting applications in industrial, automotive, and extreme environment conditions within this thermal envelope.