The Subsea M10 Tap Switch is designed for reliable momentary input in underwater control systems, supporting applications such as remote-operated lighting, thrusters, and human-machine interfaces. It features a magnetic mechanical design — not a Hall effect or pressure switch — which ensures consistent triggering behavior across its full 1,000-meter depth rating.
When tapped, the switch briefly conducts and immediately resets once released, making it ideal for signaling input to microcontrollers or low-current logic systems. It is not suitable for directly powering high-current loads without external circuitry. For applications requiring toggled on/off behavior or switching of larger devices, the switch should be paired with the optional Toggle Relay Control Module.
Constructed from black anodized aluminum, the switch is built for durability in harsh underwater environments. Its internal components are sealed to withstand pressure and environmental exposure, with a service life rated for up to 500 activations. The integrated circular step around the hex bulkhead helps prevent installation damage to enclosure surfaces during tightening.
Care should be taken to avoid false triggers caused by impacts or water motion in the same direction as the switch actuation. For improved reliability in such scenarios, signal processing techniques like brief delay filtering are recommended. Minimal maintenance is required, although occasional rinsing may help dislodge debris buildup after use in murky or saline water.
| Specification | Subsea M10 Tap Switch (Non-Latching) |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum |
| Appearance | Black |
| O-ring Size | Ø12 × 1.5 mm |
| O-ring Material | FKM75 Brown Fluorine Rubber |
| Maximum Rated Depth | 1,000 m / 3,280 ft |
| Design Lifetime | 3 years or 500 cycles |
| Temperature Rating (Air) | -10 ~ 70°C / +14 ~ 158°F |
| Temperature Rating (Water) | -10 ~ 70°C / +14 ~ 158°F |
| Wire Length | ≈200 mm |
| Wire Colors | Blue, Green |
| Wire Specification | 24 AWG |
| Electrical Performance |
0.5 A @ 125 V AC (resistive load) ≈0.5 A @ 12 VDC ≈0.25–0.5 A @ 30 VDC ≈0.125–0.165 A @ 48 VDC ≈0.025 A @ 125 VDC |
| Button Travel | ≈1 mm |
| Reset Mode | Tap, Self-resetting |
| Recommended Size | M10 Tap Switch |
|---|---|
| Recommended Bulkhead Through Hole Size (A) | Ø10.1 ± 0.1 |
| Hatch Cover Thickness (B) | 13 mm |
| Surface Range (C) | 20 mm |
After using it in murky waters for a while, I feel some resistance when tapping the button. Is this normal?
Yes, this is normal. Impurities or salt crystals may accumulate in small crevices. You can soak the switch in warm water and tap it repeatedly to help dislodge any buildup and restore smooth function.
Can this switch handle high-current power sources?
No, it cannot. To control high voltage or high current power sources, you should use MOSFET switches or relays in conjunction with this switch.
Can you provide an electrical schematic for the switch?
No, this is a simple physical on-off switch with no internal electronics. It can be treated as a basic momentary contact closure.
Can this switch be used in shallow water or in the air?
Yes, it is rated for use from 0 to 1,000 meters underwater, and is also fully suitable for use in air.