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Comprehensive Guide to Switches

Writer's picture: NIVVETHA CHELLAPPANNIVVETHA CHELLAPPAN

Updated: Sep 15, 2024

What is a switch?


A switch is defined as a mechanical, electrical, electronic, or optical device that is used to open or close a circuit to start or stop the electricity flow when it is pressed up or down. The inner part of the switch acts as a conductor, and the outer part of the switch acts as an insulator. A switch is used to control the continuity between the two points. A switch is a binary device because it is either ON completely (closed) or OFF completely (open). A switch will respond to a force that is applied externally to change an electrical signal mechanically.

A switch is used to turn on or turn off equipment like TVs, lights, washing machines, mixers, grinders, and fans.



Switch
Switch



The switch is off when the circuit is open, and as a result, there will be no current flow in the electrical circuit.

The switch is on when the circuit is closed, and as a result, there will be current flow in the electrical circuit.



Switch Symbol
Switch Symbol


Types of switches


There are various types of switches. Based on their size, robustness, environmental resistance, and various other characteristics, switches are divided into various types.


Switches in industrial equipment and consumer and commercial devices


  • Basic switches

  • Thumb-wheel switches

  • Push-button switches


Switches in consumer and commercial devices


  • Tactile switches

  • Miniature detection switches

  • Rocker switches

  • Toggle switches

  • DIP Switches


Switches in industrial equipment


  • Limit switches


Classification of switches


Detection Switches


Basic switches, miniature detection switches, and limit switches come under detection switches. It is used to detect the position of the object.


Manual Switches


Tactile switches, rocker switches, toggle switches, and push-button switches come under manual switches. It is allowing workers to make inputs to the device or the equipment.


Setting Switches


DIP switches and thumb-wheel switches come under Setting switches. It is used to set up operations on equipment.


Difference between an electrical switch and a mechanical switch


Electrical switches work under the influence of semiconductors, whereas mechanical switches require manual contact with the switch for the operation of the electrical circuit.


Types of mechanical switches


Mechanical switches are classified depending on the poles and throws.

  • The pole is the number of input circuits available to the switch.

  • Throw is the number of paths for the current flow that are available to the switch.


Mechanical switches are divided into the following types, namely:

  • SPST: single pole single throw

  • SPDT: single-pole double throw

  • DPST: double pole single throw

  • DPDT: double pole double throw

  • 2 poles, 6 throws

  • Momentary control switch



The momentary control switch is further classified into five types, namely,

  • Push-button switch