Kontaktläget

Kontaktläget, literally “the contact state,” is a term used in electronics and electrical engineering to describe the current state of a conductive contact within a switch, relay, connector, or similar device. It indicates whether electrical continuity exists between the contact’s terminals. The primary states are open (no current can flow) and closed (current can flow). In many devices, contacts are described as normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC). A normally open contact is open when the device is inactive and closes when the actuator is operated; a normally closed contact is closed when inactive and opens upon activation. Some devices use both types in a single package, enabling a change of state upon actuation.

Electrical design must account for the kontaktläget during energization and de-energization, as changes can cause arcing, wear, and contact bounce. In relays or contactors, energizing the coil changes the kontaktläge of the relay contacts, enabling or interrupting current in the controlled circuit. Documentation often lists contact ratings (current, voltage) and the expected kontaktläge under operating conditions.

Practical uses include control circuits, safety interlocks, automation sensors, and consumer electronics. Modern sensors may output a digital signal indicating the current kontaktläge, while mechanical switches provide a discrete open/closed contact to the logic or power circuit. See also contact, switch, relay, open circuit, and closed circuit.