A rotary switch is equipped with a rotating shaft attached to a terminal. That terminal is able to make or break a connection to one or more terminals. Coded rotary switches can work in different switch orientations, that can be set by rotating the switch spindle in multiple directions.
Construction
The construction and design of a rotary switch is focused on the center rotor. The rotor has a contact arm that projects out from its surface. The rotor has an array of terminals all around. These serve as the contact for the arm (spoke). Since the switch has multiple layers, each layer makes use of an additional pole. There is also a detente mechanism involved, which clicks into place as the switch is turned from one active position to another. The contact system and detente mechanism determine the number of possible switching combinations.
There are two different frames available for rotary switches: open and enclosed. Open frame switches have visible moving parts which allow for self-cleaning contact systems, making operations more reliable. They are available as custom contact configurations and the sections can be sold separately. Interior parts are not visible in enclosed frames, however they offer more protection from dust. The enclosed switches are generally less expensive and more durable than their open frame counterparts.
Application
Rotary switches were used as channel selectors on TV receivers (until the early 1970s), as range selectors on electrical metering equipment, as band selectors on multi-band radios, etc.
In most scenarios, rotary switches are found useful in controlling a large number of circuits covering a range of currents, voltages and power requirements. You will find rotary switches in the following applications:
*Medical equipment
*Computers
*Industrial controls
*Instrumentation
*Communication equipment
*Aircraft equipment
You can purchase rotary switches and other control devices from a variety of online stores that can also provide quality assurance.
Construction
The construction and design of a rotary switch is focused on the center rotor. The rotor has a contact arm that projects out from its surface. The rotor has an array of terminals all around. These serve as the contact for the arm (spoke). Since the switch has multiple layers, each layer makes use of an additional pole. There is also a detente mechanism involved, which clicks into place as the switch is turned from one active position to another. The contact system and detente mechanism determine the number of possible switching combinations.
There are two different frames available for rotary switches: open and enclosed. Open frame switches have visible moving parts which allow for self-cleaning contact systems, making operations more reliable. They are available as custom contact configurations and the sections can be sold separately. Interior parts are not visible in enclosed frames, however they offer more protection from dust. The enclosed switches are generally less expensive and more durable than their open frame counterparts.
Application
Rotary switches were used as channel selectors on TV receivers (until the early 1970s), as range selectors on electrical metering equipment, as band selectors on multi-band radios, etc.
In most scenarios, rotary switches are found useful in controlling a large number of circuits covering a range of currents, voltages and power requirements. You will find rotary switches in the following applications:
*Medical equipment
*Computers
*Industrial controls
*Instrumentation
*Communication equipment
*Aircraft equipment
You can purchase rotary switches and other control devices from a variety of online stores that can also provide quality assurance.
