How Selector Switches Work
How Selector Switches Work
How Selector Switches Work
1 normally open and 1 normally closed contact 2 normally open contacts 2 normally closed contacts Combinations with special delayed opening or early closing contacts
In the figures below, a 3-position selector switch is used to open or close two circuits, "hand" and "auto", for a pump application. It works in the following manner (reflects a left, center and right selector switch position).
Indicating lights are part of selector switches. Setting a selector switch is how we tell machines how to operate. Indicating lights tell us what the machine is do or failing to do. When a light is connected to a machine process, and the light is on, the machine shows that it's working. Selector switches are used when more than one control option is needed (e.g. Hand-Off-Auto). These switches are preferred when a maintained contact is needed. Dual circuit contact blocks save space in enclosures and add twice the functionality to a switch because one switch operates two circuits. You can add multiple contact blocks to increase functionality. For example, you can mount 4 dual circuit blocks to a 30mm pushbutton for a total of 8 circuits. Selector switches are available in a variety of styles including illuminated, non-illuminated, and nonilluminated key operated. Styles offered range from maintained or spring return, incandescent or LED, and 3-50 amps. Work with a selector switch specialist to determine the best product for your application.
More information on Selector Switches can be found at the Galco Industrial Electronics Website