Switches: Selecting A Switch
Switches: Selecting A Switch
Switch Contacts
For example: the simplest on-off switch has one set of contacts (single pole) and one switching
position which conducts (single throw). The switch mechanism has two positions: open (off) and
closed (on), but it is called 'single throw' because only one position conducts.
Switch contacts are rated with a maximum voltage and current, and there may be different
ratings for AC and DC. The AC values are higher because the current falls to zero many times
each second and an arc is less likely to form across the switch contacts.
For low voltage electronics projects the voltage rating will not matter, but you may need to check
the current rating. The maximum current is less for inductive loads (coils and motors) because
they cause more sparking at the contacts when switched off.
Standard Switches
(ON)-OFF
Push-to-make = SPST Momentary
ON-(OFF)
Push-to-break = SPST Momentary
ON-ON
Single Pole, Double Throw = SPDT
ON-OFF-ON
SPDT Centre Off SPDT slide switch
A special version of the standard SPDT (PCB mounting)
switch. It has a third switching position in the
centre which is off. Momentary (ON)-OFF-
(ON) versions are also available where the
switch returns to the central off position
when released.
Dual ON-OFF
Double Pole, Single Throw = DPST
Dual ON-ON
Double Pole, Double Throw = DPDT
ON-OFF-ON
DPDT Centre Off
A special version of the standard SPDT
switch. It has a third switching position in the Wiring for Reversing Switch
centre which is off. This can be very useful
for motor control because you have forward,
off and reverse positions. Momentary (ON)-
OFF-(ON) versions are also available where
the switch returns to the central off position
when released.
Special Switches
Keyswitch
This type of switch is used to set up circuits, e.g. setting the code
of a remote control.
Multi-pole Switch
Multi-way Switch