TheSamba.com :: View topic - Need a " contact transfer switch " for door to jam connection

Fri Aug 08, 2025 10:01 am

For lack of better terminology, what I'm trying to do is use a switch that will transfer positive and ground continuity across closed door jambs without a wire. So like a + and - button that connect across each side only when shut. The positive will only be hot if the brake light is on. I can't use a guarded wire to cross this or I woud take that simpler route.
I see many kinds of momentary on or off switches and magnetic activated ones, but I'm specifically looking to cross - over the connections Any ideas appreciated

Fri Aug 08, 2025 10:19 am

2type2 wrote: For lack of better terminology, what I'm trying to do is use a switch that will transfer positive and ground continuity across closed door jambs without a wire. So like a + and - button that connect across each side only when shut. The positive will only be hot if the brake light is on. I can't use a guarded wire to cross this or I woud take that simpler route.
I see many kinds of momentary on or off switches and magnetic activated ones, but I'm specifically looking to cross - over the connections Any ideas appreciated

So...what you are looking for is a "pogo pin". There are zillions of sizes and configuration. Try not to get them too small or skinny because they have some wear issues when they get too small.

Here is an example of one type.

https://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Same-Sky/CPG-...mMhqFuoQGQ

That one is made to mount on a circuit bpard for its insulation.

Here is a five pin one with its own holder. They make them in many configurations. The key is that they are all spring loaded. They make mostly male like this but they also make some female/contact sides. What you need to do is go onto Digi-Key and Mouser and search "pogo-pins", spring loaded contacts, spring loaded pins or spring probes....all are good search words.

An introduction

https://www.mill-max.com/engineering-notebooks/spring-loaded-pogo-pins-connectors

Ray

Fri Aug 08, 2025 12:24 pm

Thanks but seeking automotive easy application. I just found and ordered door jamb switch at Julianos.com hotrod site under "door jamb wire contacts" Not cheap but fills the need, made for cars.Also have up to 5 contacts and dome activation available.

Fri Aug 08, 2025 4:06 pm

2type2 wrote: Thanks but seeking automotive easy application. I just found and ordered door jamb switch at Julianos.com hotrod site under "door jamb wire contacts" Not cheap but fills the need, made for cars.Also have up to 5 contacts and dome activation available.

So you were just looking for a door/dome light switch? :lol: I think I have pages of switches like that.

Ray

Sat Aug 09, 2025 7:18 am

Not at all. These are also known as ' "magnum shooters" I have found-- they are Not momentary contact switches like for dome lights. They are spring loaded button contacts that transfer the power when door janb is closed, I imagined these as the way it would need to be engineered and them found various applications on hotrod parts which is exactly the function I needed. Some are available with an additional momentary contact button which is just for adding domelight activation.
They are specifically designed to eliminate the need for wires crossing between jambs.

Sat Aug 09, 2025 6:02 pm

2type2 wrote: Not at all. These are also known as ' "magnum shooters" I have found-- they are Not momentary contact switches like for dome lights. They are spring loaded button contacts that transfer the power when door janb is closed, I imagined these as the way it would need to be engineered and them found various applications on hotrod parts which is exactly the function I needed. Some are available with an additional momentary contact button which is just for adding domelight activation.
They are specifically designed to eliminate the need for wires crossing between jambs.

Yep! They are effectively a "loop". All contacts and wires on one side. It was just how you explained it that made it sound like you wanted to transfer live power across the door jamb without wires.

Ray

Tue Aug 12, 2025 11:36 am

Double contact. Can be had w up to five, also can add one nylon button for dome light activation