Switches

Switches are commonly used in electronic circuits. These power switches enable control of the circuit by switching it on/off or controlling a range of other features. At RS Australia, we offer a broad selection of electrical switches to meet the diverse needs of engineers and technicians across various industries.

How do Electrical Switches Work?

Electrical switches are binary devices which sit within a circuit to control the flow of electricity. They work by interrupting the flow of electrons and switching the circuit on or off.

Switches contain mechanical terminals which connect to metal contacts. When the terminal and contact are touching, the electric switch is closed and the current can pass through. When they are not in contact, the switch remains open, preventing the flow of electricity through the circuit. Understanding how electric switches function is key to selecting the right type for your application.

What are Poles and Throws?

The number of circuits controlled by a power switch is referred to as "poles". The number of positions that the switch can adopt is called "throws". Common combinations of these are:

SPST (Single Pole Single Throw)
SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw)
DPST (Double Pole Single Throw)
DPST (Double Pole Double Throw)

What Types of Electric Switches are There?

The type of electric switch you require depends on the connections you wish to make within your circuit. Switches are often grouped by the way they are operated, for example, rocker switches that rock side to side. Alternatively, they are classified by their application, for example, keypad switches are used with keypads. Here are some examples of electric switch types:

Detector: A detector switch senses a change in a physical property, like motion or light, and triggers a circuit.
DIP/SIP: DIP (Dual In-line Package) and SIP (Single In-line Package) switches are small, manually operated switches often used on circuit boards for configuration.
Foot: A foot switch is operated by foot, often used for tools or equipment requiring hands-free control.
Hall Effect: A Hall Effect switch is a proximity switch activated by a magnetic field.
Joystick: A joystick switch uses a stick that pivots in multiple directions to control circuits, common in gaming and industrial applications.
Key: A key switch requires a key to operate, often used for security or restricted access.
Keyboard/Keypad: Keyboard/Keypad switches are individual buttons that, when pressed, complete a circuit, commonly used in data entry devices.
Piezo: A piezo switch is activated by pressure or vibration, utilizing the piezoelectric effect.
Microswitches: Microswitches are small switches that require minimal force to actuate, often used in precise sensing applications.
Push Button: A push button switch is momentarily closed when pressed.
Rotary: A rotary switch is operated by rotating a knob or dial to select different circuit connections.
Toggle: A toggle switch is operated by moving a lever up or down to open or close a circuit.

Electrical switches play a critical role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of systems across multiple industries. At RS Australia, we offer a wide range of electric switches suitable for various industrial applications, ensuring reliability and performance.

With our global delivery network and online ordering system, you can manage, track and update your orders easily with an RS Online Account. Register for your RS Online Account to access a host of additional features that streamline your sourcing and purchasing processes.

Why Choose RS for Your Electrical and Power Switches?

RS is a trusted supplier of switches across Australia. We offer a wide range of high-quality electric switches and power switches from top brands like APEM, Alps Alpine, and KNITTER-SWITCH, ensuring you get the best performance and reliability for your applications.

In addition to power switches, we carry electrical tools such as toggle switches, interlock switches, and more, providing comprehensive solutions for your industrial and electronic needs. Whether you’re working on industrial automation, electrical installations, or electronics projects, we have the right switches for you.

Order your electric switches online today at RS Australia. For more information about our ordering process, delivery services, and delivery fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.