Electrical transfer switch and related method

An environmental test system for use in testing a printed circuit board, comprising:

• a testing chamber for receiving the printed circuit board therein;
• and
• a transfer switch for selectively connecting the circuit board between first and second test devices, the transfer switch extending along a switch axis and including:
• a frame including first and second mounting members which are spaced apart from each other;
• a first stationary connector supported on said first mounting member of said frame and operatively connected to the first test device;
• a second stationary connector supported by said second mounting member of said frame and operatively connected to the second test device;
• a platform supported on said frame between said first and second mounting members for linear reciprocating movement therebetween, said platform including first and second movable connectors thereon which are operatively connected to the printed circuit board;
• a non-manual actuator coupled to said platform for linearly moving the platform along a longitudinal axis between the first and second mounting members, said longitudinal axis, wherein said actuator moves said platform between a first position connecting said first movable connector to said first stationary connector and a second position wherein said first movable connector is separated from said first stationary connector and wherein said movable connector is connected to said second stationary connector;
• and at least one guide post extending between said first and second mounting members, wherein said platform moves linearly along said guide post under urging from said actuator.