A pressure-sensitive switch comprises a base member having a mounting
surface formed of electrically-insulating material; two electrodes mounted
on the base member and each having an electrically-conductive contact
surface, and a flexible diaphragm having its periphery secured in a
fluid-tight manner to the mounting surface with its
electrically-conductive central portion overlying the contact surfaces of
the electrodes. The diaphragm, which is formed with plural corrugations,
is exposed to the external pressure. When the switch is exposed to
atmospheric pressure, the central portion of the diaphragm does not touch
the contact surfaces of said electrodes, but when the switch is exposed to
a super-atmospheric pressure, this central portion is forced into contact
with both contact surfaces, thus electrically connecting the two
electrodes. This pressure-sensitive switch is especially useful for use
with hydrophones, as in seismic streamer cables.