SKU: SENS-4311
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Mercury Tilt Switch - Pack of 10pcs - 4mm x 35mm - Digital Output

₹124.00 (Inclusive of all taxes)
Out of Stock

The Mercury Tilt Switch is a simple, gravity-activated sensor providing a digital on/off signal, compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic systems like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontrollers for basic tilt and orientation detection.

Features

  • Digital switching output (0 or 1) for easy microcontroller integration.
  • Compact 4mm diameter, 35mm length glass envelope construction.
  • Operates on a wide 3.3V to 5V DC power supply.
  • Sealed mercury contact design prevents oxidation and ensures reliable switching.
  • Pack of 10 units for prototyping and multi-point sensing applications.

Out of stock

Description

The Mercury Tilt Switch operates on a fundamental physical principle: a small, free-moving mercury drop within a sealed glass envelope acts as a conductive, gravity-sensitive mass. When the switch is oriented so the mercury drop bridges two internal contacts, the circuit closes, producing a digital HIGH signal. Tilting the switch away breaks this contact, resulting in a digital LOW signal. This provides a simple, non-latching binary state for tilt detection.

Its sealed construction protects the contacts from environmental contaminants like dust and moisture, ensuring long-term reliability without contact oxidation. The low resistance of the mercury drop allows it to handle useful current levels despite its miniature size. This sensor is ideal for basic orientation sensing, limit switches, or alarm triggers in educational projects and simple mechanical systems.

Key Features

  • Gravity-activated mercury drop provides reliable, non-mechanical switching.
  • Sealed glass envelope ensures contacts remain clean and oxidation-free for consistent performance.
  • Low internal resistance allows for handling of practical signal-level currents.
  • Inherent over-center effect from mercury mass minimizes contact chatter during state transition.
  • Spark-free operation enhances safety in non-hazardous, low-power sensing applications.
  • Compact cylindrical form factor (4mm x 35mm) facilitates integration into tight spaces.
  • Optimized performance-to-cost ratio for basic tilt detection needs.

Applications

  • Basic orientation and tilt detection in DIY electronics and prototyping boards.
  • Limit switches or position sensors in simple mechanical assemblies and models.
  • Anti-tipover safety switches for small appliances or educational robotics.
  • Trigger mechanisms for alarms or indicators based on angular position change.
  • Educational demonstrations of gravity-based sensing and basic digital input circuits.

Technical Specifications

Model / NameMercury Tilt Switch
Operating Voltage3.3V to 5V DC
Output FormatDigital Switching (0/1)
Diameter4 mm
Length35 mm
Sensing PrincipleGravity-actuated Mercury Drop
Contact TypeSealed Mercury-to-Metal
Package Quantity10 pieces

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating voltage range for this Mercury Tilt Switch?

The switch is designed to operate within a 3.3V to 5V DC range. This makes it directly compatible with most common microcontroller platforms like Arduino (5V logic) and Raspberry Pi or ESP32 (3.3V logic) without requiring additional signal conditioning.

How does the output signal work?

The output is a simple digital switch. When tilted to the activating angle, the internal mercury drop bridges the contacts, closing the circuit and outputting a logic HIGH (typically the supply voltage). When tilted away, the circuit opens, resulting in a logic LOW (0V). It provides a clean binary signal for easy digital pin reading.

Are there any safety concerns with using a mercury-based sensor?

The mercury is securely sealed within a glass envelope. The switch is safe for handling in its intact state. However, caution should be exercised to prevent breakage. Do not crush, puncture, or expose to extreme heat that could compromise the seal. Proper disposal following local regulations for electronic waste is recommended if the unit is damaged or at end-of-life.

What is the typical mounting method for this sensor?

Due to its small, cylindrical shape (4mm diameter), it can be secured using heat-shrink tubing, adhesive, or mounted through a small drilled hole. Orientation is critical; the sensor must be mounted so that the desired tilt direction aligns with the internal mercury drop's movement to trigger the contact closure correctly.

Package Includes

  • Mercury Tilt Switch (10 pieces)

Additional Information

Weight 0.01 kg
Dimensions 7 × 8 × 1 cm