[Elecraft] Weller WTCPT illuminated rocker switch

[G. Beat]

Finding the correct illuminated (neon lighted) rocker switch used in the
Weller base units for their soldering stations, can be a daunting task.



For the Weller WTCPS, WTCPT, WLC100, WPC300, EC1001, EC3000, early EC1002 
models -- Weller used 2 primary suppliers for the illuminated (neon) power 
switch on these base units: C&K (ITT) and Carling (632 series)


The Carling 632 series, can be found here (updated Carling web site)
http://rocker-switches.carlingtech.com/illuminated-rocker-switch__37.asp

Specifically the replacement part number appears to be:  632152-2B-JN
http://www.carlingtech.com/pdf/CarlingSW_622_632.pdf

This Carling switch is now as a solid color rocker or as a translucent solid 
rocker
available in Blue, Green, Amber as well as Red.  It is available in a wide 
range of lamp voltages from unballasted LED (3 VDC) to 250 V Neon

Finding these switches for component replacement can be difficult.
Some manufacturers only sell as an OEM component, will other suppliers 
eliminated the specific model, or require a special order with a quantity of 
100 to 1,000 units.

Specifications of the Weller illuminated (neon) rocker switch

120 VAC at 8 A
SPST (On-None-Off)
120 VAC neon illumination
.187" quick disconnects for ease of replacement with existing Weller wiring

The Carling Switch current used by Weller has a nice rounded edge to the
translucent rocker -- NKK and Cherry have a more rectangular, distinct edge.

GC / Waldom Electronics now carried the exact Carling switch being used in
current Weller production.



GC Switch number:  35-696  SPST ON / OFF- RED CLEAR ROCKER
As of July 16th, they reported 239 in stock !
Cost was about $ 2.50 (very reasonable for a blister pack part)

Available at any electronics distributor or parts store - that carry 
CG/Waldom
http://www.gcwaldom.com/home.html

Two additional candidates for this illuminated rocker switch replacement are 
available  from NKK Switch and Cherry.
These suppliers have both 120 VAC (NA, Japan) and 240 VAC (EU, Asia) neon 
versions in their catalogs for these line voltages.
The Cherry model comes in an Amber and Green color option.

NKK CWSB21CACF (this is DPST version) - works by NOT using the "2a" contact 
(heat shrink insulation over QC plug).
Allied Electronics part number: 870-0119
Allied & NKK did not list the SPST version in the catalog.
I have personally used this part for replacing a defective switch in a PU120
based unit (WTCPS) - it works fine.

Cherry LR Series ... LRA22H2BBRLN --- SPST
Allied part number 908-0105
I have personally used this switch for replacing a defective switch.
At 97 cents - it is a GREAT inexpensive buy
http://www.cherrycorp.com/english/rockers/lr_rocker.htm

Greg
w9gb