Toggle Switches Key Terms
Shop more efficiently knowing toggle switches key terms
Toggle switches are a type of electrical switch that is activated by moving the switch up or down. Toggle switches are used in all forms of industries as everything from a light switch to a machine cut of switches. When looking to replace old switches or stock switches in a retail store, understanding the jargon of the toggle switch manufacturer is key. There are many terms and certifications used when working with toggle switches. Find the meanings of toggle switches key terms to help you to understand the quality and purpose of the switch.
Dielectric strength
Dielectric strength is the total voltage an insulator can withstand before beginning to break down. The dielectric strength of the toggle switch must be higher than the voltage used for it.
Try: Integrated Publishing offers information about how the dielectric strength is documented and measured. The Institute for Telecommunication Sciences provides more about dielectric strength. Visit Dictionary.com for more about dielectric strength.
Insulation resistance
Insulation resistance, or IR, is the amount of resistance the insulation has against leaking through and around the insulation. The higher the IR on a toggle switch, the better quality of switch.
Try: Penton Media provides more information about insulation resistance. Learn more from the Cole-Parmer Instrument Company regarding insulation resistance.
UL
UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories, an organization that analyzes and certifies a product's safety. A product that gains UL certification has been sent through a battery of test and passed all the necessary safety certifications.
Try: Learn all about regulations and stipulations at Underwriters Laboratories.
VDE
A VDE certification means that the product has been reviewed and tested by the Association of German Electrical Engineers. If the product passes the rigorous tests, it receives the VDE certification.
Try: Visit the Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies for more information about VDE. Embedded Computing Design also provides more details about VDE.
CSA
The CSA, or Canadian Standards Association, tests electrical products to make sure that the product is durable and meets Canadian standards. Many toggle switches have multiple certifications with the CSA and UL being the most common.
Try: Learn more about CSA certifications at the Canadian Standards Association. Precept Technology also has information about CSA qualifying tests.
CECC
The CECC, or Cenelec Electronic Components Committee, is responsible for testing the International Electrotechnical Commission, which oversees the import and export of electrical products.
Try: Visit the Cenelec Electronic Components Committee online to find the standards for the CECC mark. Tecnick.com has more information about all available electric certifications and marks.
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