> Hmm this may go for some time without maintainance in desert 
> / winter conditions.. Would the o-ring last long? I can give 
> it a shot for the prototypes, it does sound a lot easier.


Personally, I'd go with magnets.

A few reed switches behind a panel, and a magnet rigged to slide across it.
Put them in a circle it you want a rotary action.

Fairly common arrangement with people who make Nixie clocks, for some
reason.

Use hall effects if there is vibration.

Tony

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