Last Updated on October 22, 2023 by Kevin Chen
Rocker switches are used for garage or shutter doors, indoor and outdoor windows, and car windows, among other things. Traditional PCB and Panel mount push button switches, which require a basic ‘on’ and ‘off,’ might be a fantastic alternative to rocker switches and toggle switches.
What is a Rocker Switch?
The Rocker Switch is an on/off switch used in electronic devices to turn the primary power source on and off. The rocker switch is one of several types of switches used in electronic circuits, and it is a highly well-known and widely used switch. When the switch’s button is pressed, it produces a rocking motion, hence the term “rocker switch.” It is constructed with a button that may be pressed on either side, as you can see because it resembles a seesaw, also known as a seesaw switch.
A three-prong SPST rocker switch serves the same purpose as a three-prong SPST toggle switch. However, the toggle switch and the rocker switch have some structural differences. The toggle switch’s main body is composed of metal, whereas the rocker switch’s main body is made of plastic. When the toggle switch is turned on, it makes a louder noise than the rocker. In addition, some rocker switches have an inner light that glows when the switch is turned on. It’s important to know if the switch is on or off. There is no built-in light in the case of toggle switches.
Single Pole and Double Pole variants of rocker switches are available. The single-pole and double-pole rocker switches differ in that the single-pole rocker switch can only control one circuit at a time, but the double pole rocker switch can control two circuits simultaneously.
What is Rocker Switches Used for?
Rocker switches are used in many applications and devices, making them one of the most well-known switch types in the world. Most on-off power and light switches in the home and workplace are designed to operate using a rocker or toggle, with rockers being more prevalent.
They’re always seen on electrical outlets, surge protectors, and extension cords. They’re also typically seen on a wide range of stand-alone and integrated electrical equipment. Although lit rocker switches with incorporated LEDs or equivalent are standard, they are not always the case; most simple off-on power rockers are not illuminated. Everyday usage examples include:
- Power supply and control panels
- Household appliances, such as dehumidifiers and vacuum cleaners
- Medical equipment and machinery
- HVAC systems
- Hydraulic and pneumatic systems
- Vehicle electronics and dashboards – seat switches, electric windows, and defoggers
These switches are chosen for their cost-effectiveness, convenience, and overall ease of operation in most of these applications. They’re a little wider than lever-style toggle switches, but they don’t stick out quite as far. They may have lit regions with embedded LED illumination, usually red or orange, to signify active power flow.
This means that rockers are generally better if physical space is limited (significantly above or in front of the switch) or if a low-profile and unobtrusive design is desired. Miniature rocker switches are also available for installation in even smaller spaces. They’re also less difficult to clean around.
How Does a Rocker Switch Work?
To move the switch between positions, only a tiny amount of downward pressure is usually required on one end of the switch. They’re even easier to use than toggles, needing no force or physical skill to change positions.
Rocker switches are slightly more prone to temporary sticking between settings than other toggle-style alternatives, depending on the number of positions supplied and the manufacturing quality of a given device. Some are constructed with integrated spring-loading to help avoid this, which means they will automatically return to a neutral position when not in use. This is frequently the case with switches in automobiles for things like motorized windows and seat controls.
Because of their simple form, rocker switches can easily be enhanced with extra features such as indicator illumination. Even the cheapest models frequently contain a basic on-off illumination LED that indicates whether they are currently giving electricity (on) or serving as a circuit breaker (off) (off).
Rocker Switch Positions: Poles and Throws
In the next portion of this article, we’ll look at some of the numerous varieties of rocker switches available. But first, let’s clear up some terminology concerning rocker pole and throw types.
Most, but not all, are made to control very simple circuits in a restricted number of ways. They’ll usually give you the option of turning it on or off. You’ll almost always need to utilize a rotary switch if you need a more complicated array of positioning and control possibilities.
Regardless of which switch type you purchase, they will often be priced based on the number of poles and throws they can switch between.
The following are the most typical configurations:
- Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST)
- Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT)
- Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST)
- Double Pole, Double Throw DPDT)
Which type of switch you require depends on the circuitry of the devices or systems you’re hooking up and how you’ll control them.
Poles
When the switch is in the ON state, the number of distinct circuits it can complete (close) is measured in poles; even if it has many ON states, a single-pole rocker switch supplies or interrupts power to only one circuit (multi-throw). A double pole switch can control two different circuits, either individually or together (through one or two ON states). It’s helpful to conceive of a double pole rocker as being able to replace two single-pole switches with only one button.
Throws
The number of ON locations the switch can move between to close (power) the circuit(s) it controls is called throws. Even if it closes many circuits simultaneously, a single throw switch is defined as a simple on-off rocker (multi-pole). It’s a double-throw switch with two ON settings, such as OFF, low power, and high power, even if it’s just controlling one circuit.
Switch Poles and Throws Examples
A desk fan is controlled by a single rocker switch that can be used to turn it on or off. This rocker is a Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST) switch because it controls only one circuit and has only one ON state.
A single rocker switch controls a desk fan that can switch between off, low power, and high-power modes. This rocker is a Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) switch since it regulates one circuit and has two ON positions.
A hairdryer is controlled by a single rocker switch that turns it on or off. When it’s turned on, power is sent simultaneously to both the blower motor and the heating element circuits. It’s a Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST) switch since it regulates two circuits and only has one ON position.
A similar hair dryer features a single rocker switch that may be set to off, low power, or high-power modes. It’s a Double Pole, Double Throw (SPDT) switch since it controls two circuits and has two ON settings.
Rocker Switch Types – Switching Options
These switches are available in various forms and designs, each with its benefits and drawbacks in particular applications and device kinds. The following are some of the most prevalent variations:
On-Off
The user can choose between on and off positions for power transmission to one or more circuits concurrently using an on-off (or off-on) switch. Components sold as on-off rocker switches typically only have those two positions, while on-on versions are available for more specific uses.
Illuminated
Many rocker switches have built-in lighting that indicates whether or not electricity is being sent to a circuit in a specific position. Illuminated rocker switches with built-in LED indications are prevalent in applications such as power strips and surge protectors. They can also be found in wall-mounted light switches, appliance breakers, dashboard displays, instrument panels, and control arrays.
Momentary
Standard rocker switches latch into whatever position you press them into and stay in that place until you flip them around. On the other hand, a momentary switch is activated and returns to its default position when not pressed. It usually does so with the help of a spring incorporated into the frame.
Push switches and non-latching switches are examples of momentary switches. When in their default positions, they can be intended to be either generally on or generally off, though off is significantly more frequent. They’re found in many intermittent input devices, including keypad controls and electric door and window systems.
Changeover
A changeover or transfer switch (sometimes known as a changeover) is a device that switches voltage from one circuit to another. They’re most commonly used in power supply and mains grid functions, letting users switch from one input source, such as mains electricity, to a secondary source, such as a backup generator. They can be either manually or automatically operated. Some types can work as two circuit breakers simultaneously, flipping in opposite directions simultaneously.
Center-off
A center OFF position is seen on another type of rocker switch. This usually means there will be (at least) two ON positions, one on each side of the seesawing mechanism. They are sometimes referred to as on-off-on switches, but center-off is the preferred word because it is less misleading. Although this switch might be momentary, it is usually built for complete manual operation in all positions.
Rocker Switch Accessories
Many useful rocker switch accessories and mounting equipment are available for purchase online. The majority of switch accessories are designed to make installing and using these switches easier and safer or add to the design of switch housings and displays.
Actuator Tools
Rocker switch actuator tools make it easy to remove, insert, and operate the switches themselves. Depending on the switch, a separate actuator tool may be required to remove or insert a new rocker rather than replacing the entire device. Users may be able to replace a standard actuator with a more convenient lever-type mechanism or something similar in some circumstances or models.
Rocker Switch Blanking Plug
A blanking plug for a rocker switch is also a switch fake cover, cap, or similar. They’re utilized to cover or replace an existing switch actuator and a cut-out gap where a switch actuator used to be. This is frequently done for the sake of safety or convenience.
Depending on the model and actuator type, a rocker blanking plug may make switch operation easier and safer or lessen the chance of accidental operation. They’ll usually be rated IP65 or IP68 against dirt and moisture entry, and they’ll be used to protect residential electrical circuits and devices with fuses.
Rocker blanking plugs are commonly available in black and red, and they are frequently sold to fit specific rocker sizes (in mm or cm).
Rocker Switch Bezel
The frames surrounding the switch are known as rocker switch bezels when placed. They aid in the retention of the switch, preventing dirt or moisture penetration, and protecting the wiring behind the switch. They also make it easier to put the switch in its housing and prevent it from being accidentally activated. Both circular and rectangular switch bezels are commonly available and relatively inexpensive to purchase online.
Rocker Switch Connector
The mechanism behind the switch includes a rocker switch connector. Rocker switch connections serve as an intermediary linking device between the primary circuit wiring and the switch/actuator assembly.
On the reverse side, the connector takes, separates, and routes the incoming leads from the circuit wiring array, while on the outward-facing side, a set of plug-in terminals allow the rocker switch to be attached. After the entire assembly has been assembled in this manner, the rocker switch actuator can be installed, which will allow it to close or open circuit connections via the leads that connect it to the primary electrical system.
Single switches can be housed in a dashboard or console, or many switches and resistors can be accommodated on a broader array using rocker switch connectors. There are numerous types and configurations of rocker switch connectors available, all of which are typically inexpensive. They are relatively inexpensive and essential components widely available and easy to install.
They may have built-in LEDs that are ready to connect to the primary circuit, allowing the rocker switch to light up to indicate the current on/off position. An appropriate actuator will almost always have to be purchased separately.
Standard push-in, plug-in, or snap-in switch connectors with locking tabs, quick-release spade connectors, flag terminals, and butt splice terminals, are some of the most common models. Plexo sockets are a type of rocker switch connector designed for use in harsh outdoor and outdoor situations. They have rapid disconnect functions, optional socket covers, and modular flush-mount or surface-mount assemblies and are typically certified IP65 or IP68 against moisture and dirt entry.
Always consult the manufacturer’s specs for more information on the switch’s compatibility with different switch connectors and mounting styles.
Rocker Switch Boots
Rocker switch boots are rubber or plastic covers that go over switch actuators to keep particles and moisture out of the switch’s workings. They’re widespread in industrial settings and other high-stress situations. Switch boots are usually translucent and have a lot of flexibility to make it easy to operate the switch.
As specified in the product specifications, most will give the switch a defined IP rating when installed (typically IP65 or IP68). Protective, less flexible covers are also available, and they may be designed to be removed (or flipped up) before accessing a switch. Rocker switch covers are commonly referred to, although a boot generally relates to a pliable rubber covering.
Rocker Switch Mounting Panels
The housing assemblies that retain the switch mechanisms and their internal wiring connections when fitted are known as rocker switch mounting panels. They’re most commonly found on recessed wall switches, but any type in a dashboard or control panel will have some mounting panel around it.
Mounting panels keep the switch in place while protecting the wire underneath the actuator. They come in various colors, including black, white, red, green, orange, and transparent or translucent, just like the rockers themselves.
Conclusion
Electrical components that turn the power on and off for various electrical devices are called switches. Switches accomplish this by disconnecting and reconnecting electrical circuits. We hope you found this article on rocker switch to be helpful.
Lastly, for any purchase, custom manufacturing needs, or questions regarding rocker switches for quality electrical connectivity, contact us at ICRFQ. We manufacture the best electrical components in China.
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