ECT’s Switch Probes: Cost-Efficient Solutions for Testing Electronic Assemblies

ECT switch probes are cost effective and reliable solutions for non-destructive testing to verify the presence of components or contact leads within a connector assembly. ECT offers proven off-the-shelf options and a large portfolio of custom switch probes. ECT’s experience and design standards combined with its knowledge of materials and platings allows for the quick alignment of probe features with project requirements. ECT switch probes are replaceable by using of one of many receptacle termination options. Customers can choose from gold or nickel plated plungers.

A switch probe is a spring contact that is used to verify the presence of components or contacts within a connector assembly. The current path for test is from the probe tail to the receptacle which is normally open (“NO” or “closers”). As the plunger is compressed to a defined switch travel, the circuit is closed. The most common application for switch probes is in the cable harness testing industry. The switch probe is used to verify the correct location of a terminal contact in a connector while also checking the retention force. Switch probes also verify the physical presence of non-conductive components or devices on a circuit board.

Switch probes are used for wire harness contact sensing and component sensing. For applications such as automotive component test where zero defects are allowed, switch probes typically must function without error for tens of thousands of cycles. ECT’s switch probes easily meet this standard for reliability.

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ECT (headquartered in Fontana, CA) is the world's leading manufacturer of POGO® contact probes for a wide range of applications including industrial, medical, military, connectors and testing bare and loaded printed circuit boards. We invest in R&D programs which address engineering and materials issues that will impact contact solutions for the next decade. Methods for maintaining electrical continuity in miniature probes, improved spring technologies and probe head geometries are under continual review. ECT POGO® contacts are marketed worldwide through sales offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. ECT is a company of Xcerra™ Corporation, which provides capital equipment, interface products, and services to the semiconductor, industrial, and electronics manufacturing industries. Xcerra Corporation offers a comprehensive portfolio of solutions and technologies, and a global network of strategically deployed applications and support resources. Additional information can be found at www.ectinfo.com and www.Xcerra.com. To learn more about ECT’s portfolio of switch probes, visit http://ect-cpg.com/switch-probes