Toggle Switches
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Toggle switches are a type of electrical switches that make use of a mechanical lever, handle or a mechanical rocking mechanism for actuating them. These toggle switches are actuated by moving a lever back and forth for opening or closing an electrical circuit. Toggle switches are available in various styles, sizes, and are used in numerous applications.
Quite a few switches are designed for providing simultaneous actuation of multiple sets of electrical contacts, or controlling large amounts of electric current or mains voltages.
Types of Toggle Switches
Maintained contact switches: These switches remain in the same position to which they are moved or actuated.
Momentary contact switches: These switches do not remain in the same position to which they are moved or actuated.
Both the above types of switches can make use of short (.5-in.), ball (<.75-in.), standard (.75-in.), or long (1.5-in) handles.
Buyers Guide for Toggle Switches
Buyers must keep the following specifications in mind while selecting toggle switches. These include:
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The length, diameter, panel thickness are some of the important physical specifications that one must keep in mind while buying toggle switches.
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Maximum AC voltage rating
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Maximum DC voltage rating
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Maximum current rating
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Maximum power rating
Toggle Switches Features
These toggle switch include a host of features including:
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Pilot light or illumination
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Imprinted markings
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Wiping contacts
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Locking mechanism
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Time delay
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Dustproof
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Weather resistant and waterproof
Terminal Types
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Feed-through style terminal
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Quick connect or blade terminals
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Screw terminals
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Solder terminal
Materials of Construction
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Toggle switches bases and actuators are made from:
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Plastic
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Thermoplastic
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Metals
Pole and throw configurations
The switches can have different configurations including:
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Single pole single throw (SPST)
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Single pole double throw (SPDT)
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Double pole single throw (DPST)
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Double pole double throw (DPDT)
Switch Certifications
These toggle switch certifications are:
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CE certification
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CSA certification
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UL listing
Tags:- DPDT Toggle Switch, Lighted Toggle Switch, Maintained Contact Switches, Momentary Contact Switches, Toggle Switch Wiring, Waterproof Toggle Switch