Push-Button Switches Key Terms
Understand push button switch terminology for navigating your specific needs
The push button switch is one of the most commonly used types of switches, and can be used to activate everything from security alarms to elevators. Although push buttons are a relatively simple concept, many types of push button switches exist. Push buttons can contain a range of components. Knowing the specific terms used to describe push button types, functions and components will help you choose to right push button switch for any purpose based on its mechanism and features.
Push button switch
A push button switch describes any type of mechanism that activates a control by depressing a button cover or plunger. Push button switches come in two main circuit types, those that must be pushed to complete the circuit and activate the control, which are always open or those that break the circuit when pressed in order to stop an action, which are always closed.
Try: Read a more complete definition of push button switch operation from Global Spec.
Actuator
The actuator is the component of the push button switch that actually initiates the intended action. An actuator converts energy to motion, and in many push button switches, is simply the ignition mechanism for a complex action.
Try: Read more about what an actuator is and how it works from wiseGEEK.
Rocker switch
A rocker switch is a type of push button that it not merely depressed, but has an uneven surface such that when one end is depressed, the other is raised. Rocker switches are used to control two separate switches, or to switch a control both on and off by alternatively opening or closing the circuit.
Try: Electronics-Manufacturers.com provides a detailed description of a rocker switch.
Rotary switch
A rotary switch allows the operator to choose from a number of controls when pressed, and like a rocker switch can initiate multiple actions using a single button. Rotary switches often control more than two discrete actions. A common example of a rotary switch is that used in a traditional rotary phone.
Try: Answers.com provides a definition and explanation of how a rotary switch functions.
Backlight
A backlight is used by lighted or illuminated push button switches, which typically have a narrow rim surrounding the light, or a translucent push button panel that is lit from behind using an LED.
Try: Learn more about LED backlight technology from Pacific Display Devices.
ADA compliant
Many buttons are advertised as being ADA compliant, which means that they conform to regulations set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act established in 1990. ADA compliant buttons may adopt certain specifications for size, labeling and placement, among other factors.
Try: Alinco Electric Sales provides a detailed description of the features required for push buttons to be ADA compliant.
Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
