Latching SPST on-off switch

Switch (Toggle, Rocker and DIP) Working Principle

Learn how Switch (Toggle, Rocker and DIP) works with an illustrated explanation and practical readings.

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Switch (Toggle, Rocker and DIP) working principle: illustrated functional stages, basic circuit and connections — Select the diagram to read it at full resolution.

How it works

3 stages · Explore one step at a time

Step 1 / 3

A spring holds the contact in place

Inside each switch a spring-loaded contact rests in one of two stable positions; moving the lever, rocker or slider past the middle snaps it into the other.

Step 2 / 3

On: the moving contact bridges the terminals

In the ON position the moving contact presses on both terminals: 10 mΩ for the silver toggle contacts, 100 mΩ for the rocker, 50 mΩ for the DIP slide.

Step 3 / 3

Off: an air gap insulates them

In the OFF position the terminals are separated by insulation: ≥ 10⁹ Ω for the toggle, ≥ 100 MΩ at 500 V DC for the rocker, ≥ 1000 MΩ for the DIP switch.