Snap Action Switches

Snap action switches are a type of mechanical switches that produce a very rapid transfer of contacts from one position to another. These switches are useful in situations requiring a fast opening or closing of a circuit.

Actuator styles for snap action switches include:

• Lever: These can be straight or formed.
• Pushbutton: This is also known as a plunger style.
• Roller: This can be a actual roller or simulated roller.

Pole and throw configurations for snap action switches:

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

Buying Tips for Snap Action Switches
The following section covers certain specifications and parameters that are important and should be considered while buying snap action switches.

Snap Action Switch Specifications
Buyers must consider the following electrical and mechanical specifications, while purchasing snap action switches:

• Maximum current rating: It is the maximum nominal current capacity of a device.
  
  
• Maximum AC voltage rating: It is a device's maximum AC voltage capacity.
  
  
• Maximum DC voltage rating: It is a device's maximum DC voltage capacity.
  
  
• Actuating force: It is the force required for actuating a switch.
  
  
• Maximum operating frequency: It is the fastest rate on which a switch can be operated.
  
  
• Total travel: It is a switch's total movement without any occurrence of damage.
  
  
• Operating temperature: It is a range of temperature in which the switch must operate.

Parameters
Below are listed important parameters that must be considered while selecting snap action switches. These include:

• Switch size: There are standard sizes of snap action switches available in the market. Many manufacturers use common terminology for this such as subminiature, miniature and standard.
  
  
• Materials of construction: Thermoplastics or plastics and metals are commonly used for manufacturing base and actuator of switch.