A limit switch configuration that is closed in its normal state is described as which type?

A limit switch configuration that is closed in its normal state is described as which type?

• A. Normally Open
• B. Momentary
• C. Latching
• D. Normally Closed

Answer: (D)

The rest state of a switch contact determines what it’s called. If a contact is closed when nothing is pressing the actuator, the circuit is complete in that normal, unactuated state. When the actuator is engaged, the contact opens and the circuit is interrupted. That behavior is described as normally closed. In contrast, normally open would be open at rest and close when actuated; momentary refers to how long the contact stays in its actuated state, and latching means the contact stays in its new state after actuation until it’s reset. So the description of being closed in the normal state aligns with normally closed.

The rest state of a switch contact determines what it’s called. If a contact is closed when nothing is pressing the actuator, the circuit is complete in that normal, unactuated state. When the actuator is engaged, the contact opens and the circuit is interrupted. That behavior is described as normally closed.

In contrast, normally open would be open at rest and close when actuated; momentary refers to how long the contact stays in its actuated state, and latching means the contact stays in its new state after actuation until it’s reset. So the description of being closed in the normal state aligns with normally closed.