Slide switches are mechanical switches characterized by their method of activation and sliding motion from one position to another. Slide switches provide selection of two or more switch positions. A slide switch has pole and throw configurations which could be single pole single throw (SPST), single pole double throw (SPDT), double pole single throw (DPST) or double pole double throw (DPDT).

Slide switches come in a wide variety such as slide dimmer switch, subminiature slide switch, surface mount sealed slide switch, open frame slide switch and miniature slide switch. Dustproof, weather resistant and waterproof slide switches are also available.

Some important parameters you must consider before buying a slide switch are:

1. Electrical specifications which includes maximum current rating, maximum AC voltage, maximum DC voltage, maximum power rating and maximum mechanical life
2. Physical size described as subminiature, miniature, and standard
3. Terminal types, for example feed-through style, wire leads and solder terminals
4. Material used in making the slide switch: plastic, thermoplastic or metal
5. Features of slide switches, for example, pilot light, illuminated switch, imprinted markings and wiping contacts

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy slide switches from a reliable manufacturer

Once you understand your application requirements, you can buy slide switches from a reliable slide switch manufacturer.

I recommend: If you need miniature slide switches or microminiature surface mount slide switches, check out the products offered by APEM Components, provider of a range of switches to industries such as medical, industrial, security, military, telecom, computer and transportation. Elektron Components specializes in the manufacture and distribution of approved switches, indicator lights and fuse holders than can be used in numerous products ranging from computers to medical appliances.

Buy slide switches from reputable distributors

You can also buy slide switches available with various slide switch distributors that offer a wide range of slide switches from different manufacturers.

I recommend: Jameco Electronics, which is one of the major brand distributors, offers several switches including slide switches. In addition, Digi-Key Corporation is also a well-known distributor of a variety of switches including slide switches.

Buy slide switches from custom manufacturers

If standard products available in the market do not meet your specifications, you can opt for customized products produced by slide switch manufacturers.

I recommend: ITW Switches designs, develops, manufactures and supplies customized products identifying your requirements and producing it at a lower cost. CW Industries also has a long history in developing and manufacturing customized products.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you want slide switches to be reliable and long lasting, use smaller sized slide switches.
• •  To control the operating speed of variable speed hand tools, use electrical slide switches.