Need A Special Type of Light Switch

[EViS]

I'm looking for a 240v switch which will power a single halogen light (40w?) and works as follows:

A switch with a metal/plastic bar (around 6cm in length) which always defaults to the left (or right) position by an inner spring of some sort. When the bar is pushed to the right (or left), a current begins to flow, the moment force is no longer applied onto the bar, the bar flicks back to the default position and the circuit is broken.

Any idea where I can find one and/or what this type of switch may be called? Basically a 'toggle switch', but one that springs back to 'off'...

background: it's for a sliding wardrobe door, I don't want a push-to-break mortice switch in case the wardrobe door is left open for days at a time, and a puch-to-make switch on the far (open) side of the door may quickly break every time the door 'bashes' into it...

 

[GaryMo]

It sounds like you require a limit switch. RS Components will sell what you require. If nobody points you in the right direction then ill find one for you when i get home later this evening.

 

[BS3036]

...or a micro switch, try Maplin...

 

[JohnD]

or you could use a lamp with a PIR pointed at the dorrway, so it sees you when you open the door and turns on. If you walk away and leave the door open it will detect you have gone and turn off after a period of your choosing.

I wonder why you want a halogen

 

[TicklyT]

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/FM143.html

 

[Steve]

I wonder why you want a halogen

Because they are fashionable. Though nobodys ever going to see in his wardrobe, he might as well fit a fluorescent strip light.

 

[JohnD]

nobodys ever going to see in his wardrobe

His wife's lover, perhaps?

 

[EViS]

It sounds like you require a limit switch. RS Components will sell what you require. If nobody points you in the right direction then ill find one for you when i get home later this evening.

Just had a look over RS Components and there is quite a variety of limit switches to choose from ranging in cost quite substantially. Could you advise me of a specific one which should meet my needs please GaryMo?

Also, what is the likelihood of the spring (which defaults the switch to off) being strong enough to push the door away (towards closed)?

 

[EViS]

I wonder why you want a halogen

Well this is another query I have, I need a light which wil output as little heat as possible. Obviously a halogen is the worst choice for this. Do halogen lights run the coolest? I imagine an LED's GU10 light is another option, or is this a bit OTT for a cupboard?

 

[JohnD]

Compact Fluorescent (energy saving lamp)

 

[mattylad]

You can get a simple 8" strip flurescent from most DIY sheds that will do this, provide plenty of light & run very cheaply & cool