Types of switches

Aim: Classify and summarize different types of Switches A device for making or breaking the connection in an electric circuit. Binary device either in on or off state.

The types of switches The number of poles and throws a switch contains and the movement of the poles to be able to touch the throws determines the type of switch. Types of switch include: 1) SPST (single pole single throw) 2) SPDT (single pole double throw) 3) DPST (double pole single throw) 4) DPDT (double pole double throw) Single Pole Single Throw (SPST): A simple on-off switch. Can be used to switch the power supply to a circuit. Example: Light switch.

Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT): This switch can be on in both positions called a changeover switch.

Double Pole Single Throw (SPDT): A pair of on-off switches which operate together.Equivalent to two SPST switches controlled by a single mechanism. Double Pole Double Throw (SPDT): Equivalent to two SPDT switches controlled by a single mechanism. Biased Switches

Push-to-make This type of circuit makes contact when the button is pressed and breaks when the button is released. Push-to-break This type of switch, breaks contact when the button is pressed and makes contact when it is released. Rotary Switches

Rotary switch Operates with a twisting motion of the operating handle with at least two positions. May be momentary (biased with a spring), requiring the operator to hold the switch in the position. They may have multiple levels or "decks" so that it can control multiple circuits.

Toggle Switches Available in many different styles and sizes, and used in countless Appliances ,used to control large amounts of electrical current or mains voltages.

Special types of switches Mercury Tilt Switches

Advantages It is unaffected by dirt, debris and oxidation. It wets the contacts ensuring a very low resistance It can be used for precision works. Knife Switches

Advantages and Disadvantages Several parallel blades can be operated at the same time by one handle. The electrical contacts are exposed.

Slow opening speed. Foot Switches This type of switch which is operated by foot pressure. It can be used for the control of a machine tool. Eg: The foot control of an electrical guitar. Reversing Switches These crossover switches only have four terminals with two inputs and two outputs. When connected to a battery or other DC source . Such switches can be used as intermediate switches in a multi-way switching system.

Light Switches In building wiring, light switches are installed at convenient locations to control lighting and occasionally other circuit . A wireless light switch allows remote control of lamps for convenience; some lamps include a touch switch which electronically controls the lamp if touched anywhere. Relay A relay is an electrically operated switch. Many relays use an electromagnet to operate a switching mechanism mechanically.

Conclusion: From the above experiment we understand about different types of switches . switches are very important for machines thus the understanding about different types of switches and their applications is very important .