## Analysis of the M2RT-34-R/CE Rotary Switch The **M2RT-34-R/CE** is a high-precision rotary switch typically manufactured by companies like **Nidec Components (formerly Copal Electronics)**. It belongs to the M2 series of sub-miniature, high-reliability switches designed for PCB mounting. ### 1. Technical Specifications The following table summarizes the key electronic and physical characteristics: | Parameter | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Type** | Rotary Switch (Sub-miniature) | | **Number of Positions** | 4 Positions | | **Number of Poles** | 3 Poles | | **Switching Timing** | Non-shorting (Break-before-make) | | **Contact Rating** | 0.4 VA max. @ 28V AC/DC | | **Contact Resistance** | 100 mΩ maximum | | **Insulation Resistance** | 500 MΩ minimum @ 250V DC | | **Dielectric Strength** | 250V AC for 1 minute | | **Operating Temperature** | -25°C to +70°C | | **Washable** | Process sealed (can withstand cleaning) | --- ### 2. Part Number Breakdown The suffix and prefix provide specific information about the construction: * **M2**: Series designation (Micro-miniature). * **RT**: Rotary type switch. * **34**: Indicates the configuration (3 Poles, 4 Positions). * **R**: Indicates the actuator style (usually a Screwdriver slot or Shaft). * **CE**: Often refers to "Copal Electronics" branding or specific RoHS/Standard compliance markers. --- ### 3. Key Electronic Features * **Gold-Plated Contacts:** Most switches in this series utilize gold plating to ensure high reliability and low contact resistance, even when switching low-current signals (dry circuits). * **Process Sealed:** The "CE" and "R" versions are generally sealed with an O-ring or epoxy. This allows the part to be subjected to wave soldering and subsequent board washing without ingress of flux or cleaning agents. * **Compact Footprint:** Designed for high-density PCB layouts where space is a premium. It features standard terminal spacing for through-hole mounting. ### 4. Circuit Diagram Representation The electrical logic for a 3-Pole, 4-Position switch is represented as follows: ```text Pole A: [Common A] connects to [A1, A2, A3, or A4] Pole B: [Common B] connects to [B1, B2, B3, or B4] Pole C: [Common C] connects to [C1, C2, C3, or C4] ``` *Rotation moves all three poles simultaneously to their respective next position.* ---