VDC anc VAC

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Security and Convenience
Forum Discription: Car Alarms, Keyless Entries, Remote Starters, Immobilizer Bypasses, Sensors, Door Locks, Window Modules, Heated Mirrors, Heated Seats, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=12680
Printed Date: May 19, 2025 at 1:04 PM

Topic: VDC anc VAC

Posted By: amcmac
Subject: VDC anc VAC
Date Posted: April 24, 2003 at 3:42 PM

I want to install a momentary push-button switch. However the only one that I like that matches my dash is a Radioshack switch. It has a rating of 3A @ 125VAC or 1.5A @250VAC. Is there any formula that will tell me how many amps this switch can handle on 12VDC? That brings me to my next question. Can I even use a VAC switch in a VDC system?

Replies:

Posted By: Ryan Smith
Date Posted: April 24, 2003 at 10:36 PM

You can certainly use an AC switch in a DC circuit, no problem at all. As far as current ratings go, myself, I wouldn't exceed the AC ratings you have for it. If you need more current, have said switch trip a relay. Technically though, if you used a current formula to figure it up, you could probably easily put 10-12 amps across that switch.

Posted By: chuckles
Date Posted: April 25, 2003 at 11:41 AM

Amperage and Voltage are Directly Related, meaning that if you have a switch rated at 3 amps @ 120 volts it is good for 30 amps at 12 volts. 12 will go into 120 10 times so 10 times 3 = 30 amps. Chuckles

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