RLS7201 wrote:
So what is it about DC switches that makes them arc resistant?
I've seen nothing inside DC switched but contacts of various metallurgy, springs & levers.
One common difference is for DC switches to have a strong snap action (not like the popular "quiet" AC wall switches).
Here's an article. For switches rated for both AC and DC, the DC rating will almost always have lower current and/or voltage.
Circuit breakers are similar. Most home ones aren't rated for use in DC circuits. Square-D QO and QOB breakers are one of the few common models which may be rated for DC (although not in all sizes), but only 48 VDC, vs. 240 VAC.
