Lamb RB2 Series Rocker Switch – Ultimate Guide (DPST/DPDT, Up to 20 A)
The Lamb RB2 Series (sometimes branded “LAMB RB2”) is a robust power‑rated rocker switch designed for demanding applications such as industrial machinery, commercial appliances, HVAC systems, medical devices, and floor‑care equipment. With ratings up to 20 A at 125 VAC, optional illumination, and multiple function and termination options, it’s ideal for designers needing a compact, durable, and feature‑rich switching solution.
✅ Key Features & Benefits
- High Current Ratings:
- Option C: 16 A @ 125 VAC or 7.5 A @ 250 VAC (T85)
- Option D: 20 A @ 125 VAC, 16 A @ 250 VAC, or even ¾ HP motor loads (T105)
- Illumination Options:
Choose non‑illuminated, full‑cap lit, or indicator dot versions with LED or neon in multiple voltages (12 V, 24 V, 125 V, 250 V) and lens colors (red, green, blue, amber). - Switch Configurations:
Available in two‑position (ON‑OFF) or three‑position (ON‑OFF‑ON, momentary variants) function options. Configurable via part‑number coding. - Ingress Protection:
With optional silicone cap, achieves IP 54 dust and splash resistance—useful in dusty or damp environments. - Panel Installation:
Snap‑in design fits a 30 × 22 mm rectangular cut‑out. Terminals: 4.8 mm or 6.3 mm quick‑connect tabs - Long Life & Safety:
- Electrical endurance: 10,000 cycles
- Contact resistance ≤ 35 mΩ
- Dielectric strength of 1,500 VAC for 1 minute
- Operating range: –20 °C to 65 °C (some variants rated up to 85 °C)
🎯 Typical Applications
The RB2 series is a go‑to choice where reliable, heavy‑duty manual switching is required, especially in:
- Home and commercial appliances (coffee machines, vacuums, heaters)
- Industrial controls and automation panels
- Medical and dental equipment
- Security systems and instrumentation
- Floor care machines like carpet sweepers
🧩 How to Specify an RB2 Switch
When choosing a specific RB2 variant, key decisions include:
- Switch Function & Pole Configuration
- SPST (single pole single throw) for ON‑OFF
- DPST/DPDT where dual control (e.g. power + lamp) is needed
- Momentary or maintained actuating
- Electrical Rating
- Option C: moderate loads (16 A at 125 VAC)
- Option D: up to 20 A and motor loads (resistive up to motor-rated)
- Illumination & Color
- Choose non‑illuminated or specify colors (red/green/amber/blue) and lens type (dot or full‑cap)
- Optional neon or LED lamp at various
- Terminal Tabs
- 4.8 mm tabs for smaller quick‑connect wiring
- 6.3 mm tabs for heavier gauge wiringe
- Environmental Protection
- Add optional silicone cap for IP 54 sealing
- Panel Cut‑out Size
- Ensure your chassis uses 30 × 22 mm rectangular opening
📝 Example Part Number Breakdown
Consider RB242D1000‑116 (as listed on DigiKey):
- RB2 = series
- 42 = DPST, 2-position
- D = Option D rating (20 A @ 125 VAC)
- 1 = actuator color (Black)
- 000 = non‑illuminated
- 116 = 6.3 mm quick‑connect tabs, silicone cap
This gives you a high‑current, non‑illuminated, panel‑snap, dual‑pole ON‑OFF switch in black, with robust IP sealing.
⚙️ Installation & Wiring Tips
- Always refer to the circuit schematic in the datasheet to wire poles correctly.
- Quick‑connect terminals ensure fast installation; ensure wire size matches tab size.
- If illumination is used, ensure lamp voltage matches available supply.
- Mount firmly via snap‑fit panel cut‑out; verify front actuator alignment.
- For rugged or outdoor use, don’t skip the silicone cap accessory to ensure splash protection.
- For designs requiring motor switching or heavy inductive loads, choose Option D rated parts.
🔍 Performance & Reliability
- Electrical durability: Survives over 10,000 ON‑OFF cycles reliably.
- Low energy loss: Contact resistance under 35 mΩ minimizes voltage drop and heating.
- High insulation strength: Rated 1,500 VAC for isolation and safety.
- Temperature resilience: Operates reliably between –20 °C and +65 °C (Option D variant up to T105).
These specs make RB2 switches reliable long‑term components even under aggressive switching loads.
📦 Where to Buy & OEM Sources
RB2 switches are distributed by major electronics distributors including Mouser, DigiKey, and RS Components, with datasheets and parametric filtering to find exactly the variant you need.
OEM suppliers such as those in China (e.g. ShouhanTech) also produce RB2‑compatible series. If buying in high volume or sourcing cost‑effectively, be sure the supplier meets UL/cUL or ENEC standards for the specific function and electrical rating you
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Current Rating | Up to 20 A @ 125 VAC (Option D) |
| Function Modes | ON‑OFF, ON‑OFF‑ON, momentary options |
| Illumination | Full‑cap, dot or none; LED or neon |
| Lens Colors | Clear, red, amber, green, blue |
| Mounting | Snap‑in, panel mount (30×22 mm cut‑out) |
| Terminals | 4.8 mm or 6.3 mm Quick‑connect tabs |
| Ingress Protection | Optional IP 54 silicone boot available |
| Operating Temperature | –20 °C to 65 °C (higher for some types) |
| Expected Lifespan | ≥ 10,000 cycles |
🛠️ Use‑Case Spotlight
- Coffee Machine / Small Appliance: Use DPST ON‑OFF (control hot & light) with neon red illumination at 125 VAC for clear power indication.
- Industrial Control Panels: Use DPDT ON‑OFF‑ON for switching motor or pump forward/reverse paths.
- Medical or Lab Equipment: Add IP 54 silicone cap for dust/touch protection; choose sterilizable actuator colors like white or grey.
- Floor‑Care Devices: Rugged snap‑in mounting with high rating makes RB2 ideal for vacuum or polishing equipment power switches.
✅ Summary
The Lamb RB2 Series rocker switch offers flexibility, durability, and excellent electrical performance in a compact panel‑mount package. With 20 A ratings, optional IP 54 ingress protection, illuminating variants, and multiple switching configurations, it’s an excellent choice for industrial, appliance, and high‑performance consumer applications.
