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This rating is dependent on the voltage of the circuit in which the switch is used.
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Voltage and current are the two principal ratings.Ĭurrent Rating – The current rating of a switch notes the maximum amount of current the switch is designed to carry. Switches are rated by their electrical characteristics. Single pole, momentary centre-off (on)-0ff-(0n) Switch Ratings A momentary switch action is shown as follows: Momentary – the switch circuit is connected when the actuator is pressed and disconnects as soon as the rocker is released. Latching – this means that the switch activates when pressed and the circuit is not broken until the switch is pressed again.ĭouble pole, on-off, latching rocker switch When selecting a rocker switch, you need to decide if you require a latching or momentary switch action.
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Throw refers to the number of positions each switch pole can be connected to.Ĭentre off (on off on) or Changeover switch Pole refers to the number of circuits a switch operates. We will help to clarify these below: Poles & ThrowsĬommonly these devices are described in terms of the number of poles and throws. There are many variations including size, contact form, voltage, illumination, number of poles and throws etc. They are used to turn the power on and off devices and applications which are operated by electricity. Its name is derived from the see saw action of the rocker – when one side of the switch is pressed, the other side raises. The rocker switch is one of the most common forms of switches.
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