Electrical switch for cupboard lights - Can anyone tell me what I need?

[chasroberts]

I am looking for a push switch that will turn on when a cupboard door is opened and off when it closes(think fridge door). The switch will operate 12V downlights which run off 240V through a transformer. I know what I need, just not what it's called, which is making searching for it a bit difficult....

As a supplementary question would it be better to switch the 12V or the 240V supply, assuming I can find what I am looking for.

As always, many thanks in advance.

Chas

 

[andygc]

Have you tried Googling for "door light switch"? You'll find what you want.

 

[chasroberts]

Perfect, thanks. Tried 'cupboard', wardrobe etc. Never thought of the obvious, Duhh! Once again many thanks.

Any preference on which side of the circuit to switch is better?

Chas

 

[sailorman]

you have cupboards o/b:ambivalence:

 

[Hadenough]

Do a search on "micro switch".

 

[chasroberts]

you have cupboards o/b:ambivalence:

Doesn't everyone?

 

[chasroberts]

Do a search on "micro switch".

Thanks to Andygc found this which looks perfect. All I have to do now is find the French equivalent locally.

http://www.toolstation.com/shop/p52171

Chas

 

[VicMallows]

In answer to your second question: Unless there are unusual safety circumstances, switch the primary (230v). Lower current to switch, and more efficient since no continuous loss (however small) in the transformer.

 

[chasroberts]

Thanks Vic.

Chas

 

[Buck Turgidson]

Proximity sensor?

 

[VicS]

Why not use the same type of switch as you have on all your cupboard doors at home

 

[GHA]

Proximity sensor?

+1
Simple to fit, works. Load's on eBay.
Search pir cupboard light

 

[David2452]

Forgive me for asking, but why drop to 12v DC from a 240v AC transformer when you already have 12v DC aboard?

 

[sailinglegend420]

Use standard car door switches from Halfords.

 

[Trundlebug]

I fitted these to all the cupboards on our boat.

http://uk.farnell.com/jsp/displayPr...966749|plid|&gclid=CIbr9Nao98ACFarpwgodgo4ARg

Combined with 12v LED's they work a treat.
They transform the usability of all cupboards, especially the big deep one under the galley.
Everyone thinks there's a window at the back of the cupboard!