It isn't always true for all purposes that an amp is an amp. AC amps and DC
amps don't put the same load on switches, for instance. While the 125 volt
ac 10 amp switch will switch 10 amps at 12 volts dc for some time, it will
probably wear out quicker than a switch designed for dc. It might fail open
or closed; it will probably be arcing at the contacts that does it in.
There is a rule of thumb for derating 125 volt ac switches to 12 volts dc,
but I forget it. Better to use a dc rated switch. Try your local auto
parts store or an electronic supply store.
-Roland Wilhelmy
>I thought that in the entire Radio Shack store, someone could tell me how
>many amps a 125 volt ac 10 amp switch would handle when run on 12 volts dc. I
>was wrong, not only couldn't anyone even venture a guess, but they called
>their "tech" support line for me, and after 20 minutes on hold, I was
>rewarded with this "pearl of wisdom" ..."we don't know "!
>
>So how about it guys ?
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