The **K-256-R** typically refers to a high-performance **Reed Relay** component, commonly manufactured by companies like *Cosmo Electronics* or within specific series of telecommunications and switching equipment. Below is a detailed breakdown of its electronic characteristics and technical specifications. --- ### 1. General Overview A Reed Relay (K-256-R) is an electromagnetic switch that uses an electromagnet to control one or more reed switches. The contacts are sealed in a glass tube with an inert gas, protecting them from atmospheric corrosion. ### 2. Technical Specifications The following table outlines the typical electrical parameters associated with the K-256-R series: | Parameter | Typical Value | Unit | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Coil Voltage** | 5 / 12 / 24 | VDC | | **Contact Form** | 1 Form A (SPST-NO) | - | | **Switching Voltage (Max)** | 200 - 500 | VDC | | **Switching Current (Max)** | 0.5 | A | | **Carry Current (Max)** | 1.0 - 1.2 | A | | **Contact Resistance** | < 150 | mΩ | | **Insulation Resistance** | 10¹⁰ | Ω | | **Operating Time** | < 1.0 | ms | --- ### 3. Key Electronic Features * **Hermetic Sealing:** The glass-to-metal seal ensures that the contacts operate in a vacuum or inert gas environment, making it suitable for explosive or harsh environments. * **Low Power Consumption:** The coil requires very low current to actuate compared to traditional electromechanical relays. * **Fast Response:** Because the moving parts have very low mass, the "Operating Time" is significantly faster than standard relays, often under 1 millisecond. * **Long Life Cycle:** Rated for millions of operations due to the lack of mechanical wear and protection against oxidation. ### 4. Internal Construction 1. **Reed Switch:** Two ferromagnetic blades (reeds) inside a glass capsule. 2. **Inductive Coil:** Wrapped around the glass capsule to create the magnetic field. 3. **Encapsulation:** Usually a plastic molded DIP (Dual In-line Package) or SIP (Single In-line Package) for PCB mounting. 4. **Protection Diode (Optional):** Some models include an internal flyback diode to protect the driving circuit from voltage spikes when the coil is de-energized. --- ### 5. Common Applications * **Telecommunications:** Line switching and signal routing. * **Test and Measurement:** Used in ATE (Automatic Test Equipment) for high-speed signal switching. * **Security Systems:** Magnetic sensors and tamper-proof circuits. * **Medical Electronics:** Due to high isolation and reliability.