switch
Datelate 19th-early 20th Century
Inventory Number1998-1-0689
ClassificationSwitch
Subject
Maker
American
?
User
Department of Physics, Harvard University
founded 1884
Cultural Region
Place of Use
Dimensions3 x 9.2 x 9.2 cm (1 3/16 x 3 5/8 x 3 5/8 in.)
Material
DescriptionInsulating round base with a triangular key with round knob and two electric contacts at the tip of the key. One contact is below the key and is touched when pressed, the other contact is above the key and is touched when released. both contacts are part of semicircular brass plates.
Signedunsigned
FunctionUsed to close different parts of an electric circuit depending on whether the key is pressed or release.
ProvenanceNot indicated, but most likely from the Physics Department, Harvard.
Historical AttributesBlue triange on base indicates use in Harvard's physics 3 course during the 1920s.
Morris E. Leeds & Company
Date: 1899-1903
Object number: 0386
American
Date: late 19th-early 20th Century
Object number: 0391
Date: 1890-1930
Object number: RS0501
American
Date: late 19th-early 20th Century
Accessories: tilting arm (0380b)
Object number: 0380a
American
Date: late 19th-early 20th Century
Accessories: goes with reversing switch (0380a)
Object number: 0380b
Date: 1890-1930
Object number: RS0505
