Circuit Design Help

[Dudeman]

I need a bit of help here.

I need to build a circuit that will cut off to current flow when the 2 parts are not in line. I My first thought was a magnetic reed switch like in the drawing, but I want to make sure a reed switch  can handle that load. I figure I'll be pumping 1A at 5VDC. The specs I've seen have "Switching Current" and "Contact Current" listed, but I'm not sure of the difference.

Does anyone know of a reed switch that can handle that, or any other ideas on how to accomplish this?

[Dudeman]

Update:

Seems that "Contact Current" is the maximum allowable current the device can carry continuously.

"Switching Current" is the maximum current the device can handle during switching operations without damage.

So I guess the following specs:
Reed Switch
Pull-In Amp Turns Max:32
Pull-In Amp Turns Min:18
Circuitry:SPST-NO
Switching Current Max:1A
Switching Voltage Max:200VDC
Mounting Type:PCB
Body Length:15mm
Breakdown Voltage Min:325VDC
Contact Current Max:500mA RoHS Compliant: Yes

Mean this one won't work because I need 1A Contact Current.

[SavannahLion]

Transistor or a relay if you're dead set on using this particular switch.

[Dudeman]

Nope... not married to that. It is just an example of what I am finding. Reed switches that have a contact current of .5A. So I'm looking for one that can handle 1A, or another way of designing this circuit.

[Beley]

Most reed switches are fairly low current devices, you may find it easier to use a relay.

[u_rebelscum]

Other options besides reed switches include inductive sensors and Hall Effect switches (digital).  However, the former requires constant AC current, and the latter usually is more costly & lower current than reed and still requires magnet and a relay.

I think most BYO window/door sensors use reed switches.