In a limit switch, what two parts comprise the basic construction?

• A. The actuating mechanism and the contacts
• B. The housing and the cover
• C. The coil and the core
• D. The wiring and the terminal block

Answer: (A)

A limit switch works by converting mechanical movement into an electrical signal, so its basic construction rests on two essential parts: the actuating mechanism and the contacts. The actuating mechanism is the part that’s moved by the machine—like a lever, plunger, or roller—and it is what triggers the switch. The contacts are the electrical switching elements that open or close the circuit when the actuator is moved. Together, they provide the functional input (motion detection) and output (electrical signal) of the device.

The housing and cover simply enclose the components, the wiring and terminal block handle connections, and the coil/core elements belong to other devices like relays. They don’t define the core switching action of a limit switch.