Series 103
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays
Up to 20 W switching
Stacking on 0.2 Inches pitch
Highest quality instrumentation grade switches
Inter-terminal capacitances are a fraction of that for
standard SIL relays
1 Form A or 1 Form A (Coaxial) configurations
Pin compatible with standard 0.2 Inch SIL relays
Optional internal mu-metal magnetic screen
Optional internal coaxial electrostatic screen
Insulation resistance >1012 Ω
Package Type
1
2
Suitable for wide bandwidth A.T.E. switching matrices and attenuator switching
Additional build options are available
Many benefits compared to industry standard relays (see last page)
The Pickering Series 103 is a range of Single-in-Line reed relays intended for such applications as wide bandwidth A.T.E.
switching matrices, attenuator switching or any other applications where exceptionally low levels of inter-terminal
capacitances are required, for example, when carrying fast rise time pulses. A version with an internal co-axial electrostatic
screen is available which is ideal for applications where capacitively coupled noise from switch to coil connections is
undesirable. The co-axial device has a characteristic impedance of 50 ohms and is also suitable for RF applications, HF
performance is similar to the Series 102M.
The range consists of two basic types, the first achieves ultra low capacitance levels of typically 0.1pf from each switch
connection to the coil and typically 0.08pf across the open switch contacts, by virtue of an internal coaxial electrostatic
screen or guard connection. Where it is not possible to drive a guard, the second type has inherently low capacitance figures
of typically 0.4pf from each switch connection to the coil and typically 0.1pf across the open switch contacts. These figures
for the unguarded version are around one quarter of those for standard SIL devices.
Two types of Form A (energize to make) switches are available, a general purpose switch (switch no.1) and a vacuum
sputtered ruthenium switch (switch no.2) which is ideal for very low level or “cold” switching applications.
Switch Ratings
1 Form A co-axial (energize to make)
Up to 20 W at 1 A
Up to 20 W at 1 A (50 Ω)
ISSUE 1.2 JAN 2022
1 Form A (energize to make)
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pickeringrelay.com
Specification
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays – Series 103
Series 103 switch ratings - contact ratings for each switch type
Switch
No
Switch
Power rating
form
Max.
switch
current
Max.
carry
current
Max.
switching
volts
Life
expectancy
ops typical
(see Note1)
Operate
time inc
bounce
(max)
Release
time
Special
features
1
A
20 W (*15 W)
1.0 A
1.2 A
200
109
0.5 ms
0.2 ms
General purpose
2
A
10 W
0.5 A
1.2 A
200
108
0.5 ms
0.2 ms
Low level
Switch no.2 is particularly good for switching low currents and/or voltages. It is the ideal switch for A.T.E. systems where
cold switching techniques are often used. Where higher power levels are involved, switch no.1 is more suitable.
Note1: Life Expectancy
The life of a reed relay depends upon the switch load and end of life criteria. For example, for an ‘end of life’ contact
resistance specification of 1 Ω, switching low loads (10 V at 10 mA resistive) or when ‘cold’ switching, typical life is approx
10 x 109 ops. At the maximum load (resistive), typical life is 1 x 107 ops. In the event of abusive conditions, e.g. high currents
due to capacitive inrushes, this figure reduces considerably. Pickering will be pleased to perform life testing with any
particular load condition.
Operating Voltages
Coil voltage - nominal
Must operate voltage - maximum at 25°C
Must release voltage - minimum at 25°C
3V
2.25 V
0.3 V
5V
3.75 V
0.5 V
12 V
9V
1.2 V
Environmental Specification/Mechanical Characteristics
In the table below, the upper temperature limit can be extended to +125 °C if the coil drive voltage is increased to
accommodate the resistance/temperature coefficient of the copper coil winding. This is approximately 0.4% per °C. This
means that at 125 °C the coil drive voltage will need to be increased by approximately 40 x 0.4 =16% to maintain the
required magnetic drive level. Please contact sales@pickeringrelay.com for assistance.
Operating Temperature Range
-20 ºC to +85 ºC
Storage Temperature Range
-35 ºC to +100 ºC
Shock Resistance
50 g
Vibration Resistance (10 - 2000 Hz)
20 g
Soldering Temperature (max) (10 s max)
270 ºC
Washability (Proper drying process is recommended)
Fully Sealed
2
pickeringrelay.com
Specification
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays – Series 103
Coil data and type numbers
Device Type
Switch
Type Number
Form Type
No magnetic
screen or guard
screen (*Note
15 W for 5 V coil)
Package Type 1
Magnetic screen
only (*Note
15 W for 5 V coil)
Package Type 1
Guard screen only
(*Note
15 W for 5 V coil)
Package Type 2
Guard screen and
magnetic screen
Package Type 2
Max.
Coil
Coil
contact
(V) resistance resistance
(initial)
Insulation
resistance
(minimum at
25 °C)
(see Note4)
Switch Across
to coil switch
Capacitance
(typical)
(see Note2)
Closed
switch
to coil
(C1 & C2)
Across
open
switch
(C3)
0.13 pF
A
1
103-1-A-5/1D *
5
150 Ω
0.15 Ω
A
2
103-1-A-5/2D
5
150 Ω
0.12 Ω
A
1
103M-1-A-5/1D *
5
150 Ω
0.15 Ω
A
2
103M-1-A-5/2D
5
150 Ω
0.12 Ω
A
2
103G-1-A-3/2D
3
300 Ω
0.12 Ω
A
1
103G-1-A-5/1D *
5
500 Ω
0.15 Ω
A
2
103G-1-A-5/2D
5
500 Ω
0.12 Ω
A
1
103G-1-A-12/1D
12
1000 Ω
0.15 Ω
0.10 pF
A
2
103G-1-A-12/2D
12
1000 Ω
0.12 Ω
0.08 pF
A
2
103GM-1-A-3/2D
3
300 Ω
0.12 Ω
0.08 pF
A
1
103GM-1-A-5/1D
5
500 Ω
0.15 Ω
A
2
103GM-1-A-5/2D
5
500 Ω
0.12 Ω
A
1
103GM-1-A-12/1D
12
1000 Ω
0.15 Ω
0.10 pF
A
2
103GM-1-A-12/2D
12
1000 Ω
0.12 Ω
0.08 pF
1012 Ω
1012 Ω
0.4 pF
1012 Ω
1012 Ω
0.45 pF
0.10 pF
0.13 pF
0.10 pF
0.08 pF
0.10 pF
10 Ω
12
10 Ω
12
0.1 pF
0.08 pF
0.10 pF
10 Ω
12
10 Ω
12
0.2 pF
0.08 pF
When an internal diode is required, the suffix D is added to the part number as shown in the table.
Note2: Capacitance across open switch
The capacitance across the open switch was measured with other connections guarded.
Note3: Capacitance values
The value will depend upon on the mode of connection/guarding of unused terminals. Please contact technical sales for
details.
Note4: Insulation resistance
Insulation resistance will reduce at higher temperatures. For more information on temperature effects click here, or
contact Pickering for more in depth guidance.
The technical information shown in this data sheet could contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. This information may
be periodically changed or updated and these changes will be included in future versions of this data sheet.
For different values, latest specifications and product details, please contact your local Pickering sales office.
For FREE evaluation samples go to: pickeringrelay.com/samples
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pickeringrelay.com
Specification
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays – Series 103
Pin Configuration, Weights and Dimensional Data (dimensions in inches, millimeters in brackets)
Package Type
1
0.19 (4.8)
0.75 (19.1)
103-1-A
Weight: Typical 0.92 g
103M-1-A
Weight: Typical 1.14 g
0.32
(8.1)
0.125
(3.2)
1 Form A
Pin 1
0.2
(5.1)
Package Type
2
0.2
(5.1)
0.02
(0.5)
0.2
(5.1)
+
1
0.01
(0.25)
3
5
3
5
7
0.19 (4.8)
0.75 (19.1)
103G-1-A
Weight: Typical 1.11 g
103GM-1-A
Weight: Typical 1.28 g
0.32
(8.1)
0.125
(3.2)
1 Form A
Coaxial
0.02
(0.5)
Pin 1
0.1
(2.54)
0.1
0.1 0.2
(2.54) (5.1) (2.54)
0.1
(2.54)
0.01
(0.25)
+
1
2
6
7
Important: Where the optional internal diode is fitted or for all Form B types, the correct coil polarity must be observed, as
shown by the + symbol on the schematics.
Simplified Equivalent Circuits
It is convenient to consider the internal capacitances as a delta network as in the circuit diagram alongside. C1 is the
capacitance between one end of the switch and the coil, C2 is the capacitance between the other end of the switch and the
coil. These two figures will be approximately equal. C3 is the capacitance across the open switch. When measuring the
values of any one of these capacitances, it is necessary to “guard” the unused relay connections to avoid the parallel effects
of the other capacitances, connection details when performing these measurements on a capacitance bridge are shown
below. Relays with an internal electrostatic screen have the screen terminals guarded in all cases.
Measurement of C1- switch to coil
Measurement of C2- switch to coil
Measurement of C3 - open switch
Bridge Guard Terminal
Bridge Measuring
Terminals
Bridge Guard Terminal
Bridge Measuring
Terminals
Bridge Guard
Terminal
4
Bridge Measuring
Terminals
pickeringrelay.com
Specification
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays – Series 103
Similar Relays Comparison
If the Series 103GM is unsuitable for your application, Pickering also manufactures three other reed relay types with similar
characteristics, but in different package sizes.
Series Name
111RF-1-A
109RF50-1-A
109RF75-1-A
102M-1-A
102M-1-B
103GM-1-A
Physical Outline
Depth
3.7 (0.145)
3.7 (0.145)
4.8 (0.19)
4.8 (0.19)
4.8 (0.19)
10.0 (0.39)
15.1 (0.595)
19.1 (0.75)
19.1 (0.75)
19.1 (0.75)
6.6 (0.26)
6.6 (0.26)
7.6 (0.3)
10.2 (0.4)
8.1 (0.32)
Package Volume
(mm3)
245
369
697
936
743
Typical Weights (g)
0.56
0.88
0.87
1.43
2.19
1.28
Contact
Configuration
1-A
(SPST)
1-A
(SPST)
1-A
(SPST)
1-A
(SPST)
1-B
(SPNC)
1-A
(SPST)
Reed Switch Type
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Dry
Stand-off Voltage
(V)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Switching Voltage
(V)
170
200
200
200
200
200
200
200
200
200
200
Switching Current
(A)
0.5
1.0
0.5
1.0
0.5
0.5
1
0.5
1
1
0.5
Carry Current
(A)
0.5
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
1.2
Switch Power
(W)
10
15/20
10
15/20
10
10
20
10
20
20
10
Width
Height
mm
(inches)
2
Reed Relay Selection Tool
Because Pickering offer the largest range of high-quality reed relays, sometimes it can be difficult to find the right reed relay
you require. That is why we created the Reed Relay Selector, this tool will help you narrow down our offering to get you the
correct reed relay for your application. To try the tool today go to: pickeringrelay.com/reed-relay-selector-tool
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Ordering Information
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays – Series 103
Standard Build Options
The Series 103 Reed Relays are available with a number of standard build options to tailor them to your specific application.
These options are detailed in the table below. If you decide to go ahead and specify one, or more, of these options you will
be allocated a unique part number suffix.
Mechanical Build Options
Electrical Build Options
Special pin configurations or pin lengths
Different coil resistance
Special print with customer’s own part number or logo
Very low capacitance
Custom packaging possibility
Operate or de-operate time
Pulse capability
Enhanced specifications
Non-standard coil voltages and resistance figures
Special Life testing under customer’s specific load
conditions
Specific environmental requirements
Controlled thermal EMF possibility
Customization
If your specific requirements are not met by standard relay, or any of the standard build options, please speak to us to
discuss producing a customized reed relay to service your specific application: pickeringrelay.com/contact
3D Models
Interactive 3D models of the complete range of Pickering relay products in STEP, IGS and SLDPRT formats can be
downloaded from the website: pickeringrelay.com/3d-models
Part Number Description:
103 G M - 1 - A - 5 / 2 D - xxx
Series
Guard (omit if not required)
Mag. screen (omit if not required)
Number of reeds
Switch form
Coil voltage
Switch number (see table on pages 2)
Diode if fitted (omit if not required)
Unique suffix (if standard build option selected)
Help
If you need any technical advice or other help, please do not hesitate to contact our Technical Sales Department. We will
always be pleased to discuss Pickering relays with you. email: techsales@pickeringrelay.com
Contact Us
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UK Headquarters - email: sales@pickeringrelay.com | Tel. +44 1255 428141
USA - email: ussales@pickeringrelay.com | Tel. +1 781 897 1710
Germany - email: desales@pickeringtest.com | Tel. +49 89 125 953 160
Product
France - email: frsales@pickeringtest.com | Tel. +33 9 72 58 77 00
25+Years 100%
Tested
Longevity
Nordic - email: ndsales@pickeringtest.com | Tel. +46 340 69 06 69
Czech Republic: czsales@pickeringtest.com | Tel. +420 558-987-613
China - email: chinasales@pickeringtest.com | Tel. +86 4008 799 765
For a full list of agents, distributors and representatives visit: pickeringrelay.com/agents
pickeringrelay.com
Low Capacitance SIL/SIP Reed Relays – Series 103
10 Key Benefits of Pickering Reed Relays
Pickering Reed Relays
Typical Industry Reed Relays
Instrumentation Grade Reed Switches
with vacuum sputtered Ruthenium
plating to ensure stable, long life up to
5x10E9 operations.
Often low grade Reed Switches with
electroplated Rhodium plating resulting
in higher, less stable contact resistance.
22
Formerless Coil
Construction
Formerless coil construction increases
the coil winding volume, maximizing
magnetic efficiency, allowing the use of
less sensitive reed switches resulting in
optimal switching action and extended
lifetime at operational extremes.
Use of bobbins decreases the coil
winding volume, resulting in having
less magnetic drive and a need to use
more sensitive reed switches which
are inherently less stable with greatly
reduced restoring forces.
3
Magnetic Screening
Mu-metal magnetic screening (either
external or internal), enables ultra-high
PCB side-by-side packing densities with
minimal magnetic interaction, saving
significant cost and space. Pickering
Mu-Metal magnetic screen - interaction
approx. 5%
Lower cost reed relays have minimal
or no magnetic screening, resulting in
magnetic interaction issues causing
changes in operating and release
voltages, timing and contact resistance,
causing switches to not operate at their
nominal voltages. Typical industry
screen - interaction approx. 30%
4
SoftCenter™ technology, provides
maximum cushioned protection of the
reed switch, minimising internal lifetime
stresses and extending the working life
and contact stability.
Transfer moulded reed relays (produced
using high temperature/pressure),
result in significant stresses to the glass
reed switch which can cause the switch
blades to deflect or misalign leading to
changes in the operating characteristics,
contact resistance stability and operating
lifetime.
100% testing for all operating
parameters including dynamic contact
wave-shape analysis with full data
scrutiny to maintain consistency.
Simple dc testing or just batch testing
which may result in non-operational
devices being supplied.
1
Instrumentation Grade
Reed Switches
SoftCenter™
Technology
5
100% Dynamic
Testing
X-Ray of Pickering
mu-metal
magnetic screen
X-Ray of typical
industry
magnetic screen
Dynamic Contact Resistance Test
Operate
Contact Resistance
Key Benefit
Release
6
100% Inspection
at Every Stage of
Manufacturing
7
Inspection at every stage of
manufacturing maintaining high levels
of quality.
Often limited batch inspection.
Stress testing of the manufacturing
processes, from -20°C to +85°C to -20°C,
repeated 3 times.
Rarely included resulting in field failures.
+85°C
100% Thermal
Cycling
-20°C
Product Longevity
Limited ability to customize.
Pickering are committed to product
longevity; our reed relays are
manufactured and supported for
more than 25 years from introduction,
typically much longer.
Most other manufacturers discontinue
parts when they reach a low sales
threshold; costing purchasing and R&D
a great deal of unnecessary time and
money to redesign and maintain supply.
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Our reed relays can be customized
easily, e.g. special pin configurations,
enhanced specifications, non-standard
coil or resistance figures, special life
testing, low capacitance, and more.
L
10
Mass production: Usually large
batch sizes and with no quick-turn
manufacturing.
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Custom Reed Relays
Flexible manufacturing processes allow
quick-turn manufacturing of small
batches.
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Flexible
Manufacturing
Process
Product
25+Years
Longevity
For more information go to: pickeringrelay.com/10-key-benefits
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© Copyright (2022) Pickering Electronics. All Rights Reserved
Pickering Electronics maintains a commitment to continuous product development, consequently we reserve the right to vary from the description given in this data sheet.
Coil Voltage