DIP Switches

Dual in-line package or DIP switches are a common type of electrical switches consisting of a series of tiny switches. These switches are used for configuring computers and peripherals including circuit boards and modems.


The main advantage of this switch is that it is quicker to change and there are no loose parts to lose.

DIP switches are made as normally open, normally closed, or three stage.

Pole and Throw configurations for DIP switches
These switches can be :

• Single pole single throw (SPST): Commonly known as a "single-pole switch, this switch has two terminals and makes and breaks connection of a single conductor in a single branch circuit.
  
  
• Single pole double throw (SPDT): This switch has 3 terminals and is also known as a three way switch. It is used in pairs and makes or breaks the connection of two circuit conductors in a single branch circuit.
  
  
• Double pole single throw (DPST): This switch has four terminals.
  
  
• Double pole double throw (DPDT): This switch has 6 terminals and makes or breaks the connection of two conductors to two separate circuits. It is available in both maintained and momentary contact version.

Actuators Used
Various actuator choices are available for DIP switches. These include:

• Slide actuators: It may have recessed or raised slides.
• Rocker actuators: It may have recessed or raised rockers.
• Side actuated levers: It may have 'pressed down' keys to actuate. It is also known as piano style.

In these switches, the number of positions available is equal to the number of actuators.

DIP Switches Features
Typical features of DIP switches include:

• Imprinted markings
• Tape and reel packaging
• CE certification
• CSA certification
• UL listed
• Dustproof
• Weather resistant or waterproof
• Operating temperature