Other switches have multiple closed positions that allow varying currents to pass through, altering the output. Read More…
Leading Manufacturers
Electro-Mech Components, Inc.
South El Monte, CA | 626-442-7180Electro-Mech Components designs and manufactures illuminated pushbutton switches and miniature switches plus multiswitch interlocking assemblies and indicator lights. We have an extensive selection of off-the-shelf pushbutton switches plus industrial-grade switches and are always happy to customize.

OTTO Engineering, Inc.
Carpentersville, IL | 847-428-7171OTTO Engineering designs and manufactures switches and control grips for the most demanding applications. From material handling to medical, from commercial to military applications, we provide sealed snap-action, pushbutton, toggle, rocker, rotary and lighted switches.

Delta Systems, Inc.
Streetsboro, OH | 330-626-2811Delta Systems manufactures custom and standard switches including push/pull switches, plunger switches, seat switches, ignition switches, sealed momentary switches, connectors, assemblies and more to many industries and markets. Our electric switches are used on outdoor power equipment.

Linemaster Switch Corporation
Woodstock, CT | 860-974-1000Linemaster is a leading manufacturer of electrical switches. Our experienced team of engineers and technicians work closely with customers to ensure that each product is designed and manufactured to their exact specifications. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes us a premier leader in the electric switches industry. With our years of knowledge and growth, our customers know that our products are one of the best out there.

Electronic switches are categorized by various factors including their actuator, which is a mechanism that applies force to the switch's contacts. Switches generally consist of conducting material, wires, terminals and actuators housed in a protective casing; these components vary in quantity and arrangement, but they are similar in that they can complete a circuit by allowing an electrical current to flow through them. Complex switches turn on or off when a light or magnetic field is sensed, while simple switches require physical contact with the conductors and actuator.
There are many different kinds of electronic switches. One main differentiation is between single pole (SP) and double pole (DP). SP switches have two contacts that enable the circuit to be either open or closed. DP switches have two closed positions and one for an open circuit (that is, two "on" positions with one "off"). Electronic switches are used in every device with the ability to power on or turn off. Computers, radios, microwaves, headlights, televisions and toasters are just a few examples of devices in which electronic switches are used.
The actuator is an important part of the switch; it determines the arrangement of other internal components. Electrical switch actuators include plungers, rockers, push buttons, dials or toggles; these actuators are used in many different arrangements. Toggle switches are switches with an angled lever that rests in one of at least two positions. An internal spring mechanism ensures that it returns to a definite position. Push button switches have two positions: depressed and released.
Some latch until pulled out while others have a spring that returns the actuator to its original position. Selector switches have a knob or lever that can be rotated to select at least two positions. Joystick switches have a lever with at least two axes of motion that control the circuit based on which way it is turned and how far it is pushed.
Some switches are designed to be operated by a machine's movement; these switches are called limit switches because they limit the motion of a machine by turning off the power if the machine moves too far away from the switch. Proximity switches are able to sense either approaching metallic objects through a disruption in its magnetic field or through a change in light as interpreted by its photocell.