Selector Switches Have Many Uses

by | Jan 23, 2017 | Electronics and Electrical

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During the course of the day, you may use a number of selector or rotary switches, depending on your occupation and lifestyle. An illuminated selector switch can be used to turn things on and off or make a number of adjustments. But how do these switches work and what are their benefits? Let’s look closer to find some answers.

What Do They Look Like?

A typical rotary switch is a round knob with a flat handle as part of the knob. There is an arrow or mark to denote which selection you are making. When the switch rotates, it touches one or more contacts. Some only have two positions (on and off) while others may have many. An illuminated selector switch is usually clear or translucent plastic with a small light bulb inside. When the switch is on or activated the light is on and in the “off” position there is no light.

You’ll encounter rotary switches on many electronic devices today, like televisions and stereos. Some video game units may have them too.

Motor Control Circuits

The illuminated selector switch is very common today with control panels and circuits. In fact, they are used to start and stop many different processes. For example, if a batch mixing technician needs to create a certain recipe for beverages, he or she may flip a selector switch on, which empties a specific bin of raw materials. There is no limit to what these switches can do. In fact, they are often mounted in close proximity to many operations and not simply found in control panels.

In some cases, rotary switches can also be momentary contact switches. For example, when you get in your car, you insert your key into the ignition switch and when it is turned all the way to the right, the starter is engaged until you release pressure on the switch.