Switch specification question

Hi,

I'm lurking these forums for a long time but never posted yet .

I'd like to build a custom light and I have to choose a switch. The one that suits my needs is a very small one

Rated for 6V and 0.3A on DX (http://dx.com/p/mk-13c01-mini-slide-switches-50-piece-pack-122531?item=11)

I found many specifications :
30V 0.3A or 12V 0.6A (http://www.winweal.com/en/pro_show.asp?id=44)
6V 0.3A (http://www.us-electronics.com/datasheets/Mini-Slide-MK12C02.htm)
12V 0.5A (http://www.wqpelectronics.com/ProductShow.asp?ID=954)

It will work under a single li-ion cell (3-4V), what current should I stay under ? What if I drive it with 1A ?

Thanks !

Them's some tiny switches alright. Are you direct driving with the current flowing through the switch? Because if you are using a driver then the current rating won't matter because the switch is just for signal. (well this depends on the driver actually) Generally switches are rated a bit conservatively, and also, if you use less voltage you can use higher currents, such as how the winmeal switch is rated at 0.3A @ 30V and 0.6A @ 12V. You can put more current through it at 4V. I'd say go for it and if it melts it melts.

Also look into QTC (quantum tunneling composites) if you haven't already. It can provide variable dimming in direct drive situations. It is used in the PEAK lights for example.

With my driver, the current is flowing through the switch. I think you're right, i'll give a try and order those small switches. We'll see if they melt .

I never heard of QTC before, this is very interesting. However, I don't need a momentary action switch on this project. Maybe I should reconsider my driver too.

Thanks for your help !