I am building a beacon transmitter for a high altitude balloon. The beacon needs to be turned-on with a small, light, rugged switch just prior to launch. The battery will likely be a Lithium **broken link removed**.
The switch must have a positive ON indication (visual check of the physical position of the switch handle) or other indication that consumes very little power. This is so it can be checked visually just prior to launch. Launch is in direct sunlight, so I want to avoid an LED indicator...
The switch must be mechanically guarded so it cannot be accidently turned off by being snagged or dragged (the ground, bushes, trees, parachute shrouds, etc) by being recessed and/or by using a positive locking switch with a Lift-over-center handle.
Current/Voltage is 6Vdv at ~100mA
Temperature goes to -50 deg C
I've thought about a NC magnetic reed switches (where the magnet holds the switch open and the magnet is removed just prior to flight)
It could be done by not installing the battery until just prior to flight.
It could be done with an insulating mylar tab that is pulled out from between the battery contact just prior to flight.
Anybody have any other ideas?
The switch must have a positive ON indication (visual check of the physical position of the switch handle) or other indication that consumes very little power. This is so it can be checked visually just prior to launch. Launch is in direct sunlight, so I want to avoid an LED indicator...
The switch must be mechanically guarded so it cannot be accidently turned off by being snagged or dragged (the ground, bushes, trees, parachute shrouds, etc) by being recessed and/or by using a positive locking switch with a Lift-over-center handle.
Current/Voltage is 6Vdv at ~100mA
Temperature goes to -50 deg C
I've thought about a NC magnetic reed switches (where the magnet holds the switch open and the magnet is removed just prior to flight)
It could be done by not installing the battery until just prior to flight.
It could be done with an insulating mylar tab that is pulled out from between the battery contact just prior to flight.
Anybody have any other ideas?