Switch parts and accessories are used to manufacture or repair switches. Switches are devices that block or allow the flow of electric current. There are many types of switch parts and accessories. Examples include a switch membrane; parts for a toggle switch, rocker switch, or keylock switch; push buttons; and a lever handle. A switch membrane is an alphanumeric or graphical covering used with keypads to indicate the name or function of each key. A toggle switch is used to make and break a circuit by toggling the position of the switch. Toggle switches can use a standard toggle handle, a long toggle handle, a short toggle handle, or a ball handle. A rocker switch opens and closes the circuit with the release of an actuator. Push buttons are mechanical switches that consist of a plunger that is pushed down to close and open the switch. There are two types of push buttons: momentary contact and maintained contact. Keylock switches are activated by a key that is turned in a circle, and which can stop in several positions within its range. Lever handle switches have a variety of actuator and termination options. Lever handle switch accessories include screws, stand-offs, and nuts.
Selecting switch parts and accessories requires an understanding of product specifications and features. A membrane switch includes graphical representations such as depictions of operations, arrows, or numbers. Typically, a membrane switch is made of polycarbonate, rubber, polyester, or metal. Examples of toggle switch specifications include material of construction, length and width, and high inrush current compatibility. Rocker switches are made of thermoplastics or metals. They can be illuminated in darkened environments. Specifications for push buttons include maximum DC voltage, maximum current and maximum AC voltage. Electrical specifications for lever handle switches include current rating (amps), insulation resistance, and dielectric strength (Vrms/min). Other switch parts and accessories may carry different specifications and provide additional features.
Switch parts and accessories are used to manufacture or repair switches. Switches are devices that block or allow the flow of electric current. There are many types of switch parts and accessories. Examples include a switch membrane; parts for a toggle switch, rocker switch, or keylock switch; push buttons; and a lever handle. A switch membrane is an alphanumeric or graphical covering used with keypads to indicate the name or function of each key. A toggle switch is used to make and break a circuit by toggling the position of the switch. Toggle switches can use a standard toggle handle, a long toggle handle, a short toggle handle, or a ball handle. A rocker switch opens and closes the circuit with the release of an actuator. Push buttons are mechanical switches that consist of a plunger that is pushed down to close and open the switch. There are two types of push buttons: momentary contact and maintained contact. Keylock switches are activated by a key that is turned in a circle, and which can stop in several positions within its range. Lever handle switches have a variety of actuator and termination options. Lever handle switch accessories include screws, stand-offs, and nuts.
Selecting switch parts and accessories requires an understanding of product specifications and features. A membrane switch includes graphical representations such as depictions of operations, arrows, or numbers. Typically, a membrane switch is made of polycarbonate, rubber, polyester, or metal. Examples of toggle switch specifications include material of construction, length and width, and high inrush current compatibility. Rocker switches are made of thermoplastics or metals. They can be illuminated in darkened environments. Specifications for push buttons include maximum DC voltage, maximum current and maximum AC voltage. Electrical specifications for lever handle switches include current rating (amps), insulation resistance, and dielectric strength (Vrms/min). Other switch parts and accessories may carry different specifications and provide additional features.
Switch parts and accessories are used in many applications. Some products are used with keypads or keyboard. Others are used in aerospace, automation, or electronics applications. Many switch parts and accessories adhere to standards from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).