All switches have a voltage and current rating. A typical door-interlock switch is rated at 15 amps with 125 or 250 VAC applied. When replacing an interlock switch, these ratings must be met or exceeded, otherwise premature switch failure will result. Another replacement consideration is the operating and release force. This is the relative amount of pressure needed to actuate the switch.
Various applications call for differing amounts of operating pressure.
Like the voltage and current ratings, this is an important factor when obtaining a replacement switch. For example, if the normal pressure of a latch mechanism is insufficient to depress the actuator button, the switch's operating force is probably too high for that application. Interlock monitor switches are usually constructed with only the COM and N.C. terminals. Other switches are made with just the COM and N.O. terminals. The following tests will cover most circumstances.