Description
The MKA14103 is a miniature, normally-open (Form A) glass reed switch designed for magnetic proximity sensing, position detection, and low-power switching applications. It consists of two ferromagnetic reed blades hermetically sealed in a glass envelope filled with inert gas. When a magnetic field is brought near, the blades magnetize and attract each other, closing the circuit. When the field is removed, the blades spring apart, opening the circuit .
The 2×14mm designation refers to the glass envelope diameter (approximately 2.2–2.3mm) and length (14mm), with total lead-to-lead length of approximately 44.7–45mm . The “White Tube” in your title likely refers to the glass envelope appearance or a protective sleeve. The gold-plated leads (per most detailed sources) simplify soldering and resist oxidation .
Reed switches are widely used in door/window magnetic contacts, proximity sensors, liquid level floats, treadmill safety keys, and counting applications . The MKA14103 is a common, cost-effective Russian-origin part widely used in Chinese electronics manufacturing .
Critical limitations: This is a normally-open switch—it closes only in the presence of a magnetic field. It is not a latching switch. The glass envelope is fragile and must not be subjected to mechanical stress during lead bending or soldering. The contact rating (10W, 0.5A) is modest—do not use for mains voltage switching without appropriate isolation and derating.
Features
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Normally Open (Form A) Operation: Closes when a magnetic field is applied; opens when the field is removed .
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Hermetically Sealed Glass Envelope: Inert gas filling protects contacts from oxidation and environmental contamination .
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Gold-Plated Leads: Simplifies soldering and improves corrosion resistance (verify with supplier) .
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Compact 2×14mm Size: Small footprint suitable for space-constrained installations .
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Fast Switching: Operate time ≤1.0ms, release time ≤0.4ms .
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Low Contact Resistance: ≤100mΩ initial .
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Wide Operating Temperature: -60°C to +155°C .
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Long Electrical Life: 10⁸ operations at 5V/10mA (resistive load) .
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification (MKA14103) |
|---|---|
| Contact Form | 1A (SPST-NO) |
| Glass Length | 14mm (approx. 14.2mm) |
| Glass Diameter | Approx. 2.2–2.3mm |
| Total Length | Approx. 44.7mm |
| Max Switching Power | 10W |
| Max Switching Voltage | 100V DC (most sources); some list 300V DC |
| Max Switching Current | 0.5A |
| Max Carry Current | 1.0A |
| Contact Resistance (initial) | ≤100mΩ |
| Operate Time | ≤1.0ms |
| Release Time | ≤0.4ms |
| Operating Temperature | -60°C to +155°C |




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