METROL Switches

FAQ Switches

Question: What is switch and its function?

Answer: Switches are important components in an electrical circuit. They are used for connecting, disconnecting, and controlling the direction of electric current. They have 3 main components such as
1) The connector is used as a connection point for the electrical circuit to the switch.
2) The electrical bridge is used to connect the two circuits or control the direction of the electric current as well.
3) The control parts are used to control the position and direction of the electrical bridge.
They have many shapes depending on the usage, such as button type, rod type, rotary type, temperature-controlled type, etc. When the control part of the switch changes state, such as pressing a button, pulling a lever, or turning a control knob. The direction or position of the electrical bridge will change. As a result, the electrical circuit will be ON /OFF or redirect the electric current to another pole. For example, a fan switch that can control to turn on, off, or select the wind power according to the button pressed.

Question: How many types of switches are there?

Answer: Switches are commonly used in industry and can be separated according to their use into 5 types as below.
1) Toggle switches are operated by a lever to control the on-off status or direction of electrical current. There may be more than 2 states, such as a light switch in the building or a switch to adjust the wind speed of the fan, etc.
2) Push-button switches are used to control 2 positions on and off, both Momentary switches and push-and-hold (Alternate) switches are available.
3) Selector switches are used to control the direction of electric current in many directions. Their shape is like a hand knob. The selector switches are used to select the operating mode of the machine.
4) Limit switches are operating by the lever. The limit switch will activate when the moving part touches the lever of the limit switch. The limit switches are used to limit the distance of the moving part. To not allow the movable parts to pass into prohibited areas.
5) Proximity switches are switches that activate by using magnetic inductance. Proximity switches are used to check the avability of the object at the desired position.

Question: What is limit switch?

Answer: Limit switches are operating by the lever. The limit switch will activate when the moving part touches the lever of the limit switch. The limit switches are used to limit the distance of the moving part. To not allow the movable parts to pass into prohibited areas.

Question: What is micro switch?

Answer: Microswitches are miniature switches designed to be used in small areas, such as the circuit board of an electronic device. The advantage is low-cost and can be used for a long lifetime. However, it cannot be able to use with high-power circuits. There are many types of micro switches, just like general switches, such as push-button switches, limit switches, selector switches, etc.

Question: What is the difference between plug types 2 and 3?

Answer: A 2-pin micro switch is used to connect or disconnect the electrical path in the circuit. While the 3-pin microswitches are used to switch the path of the electrical current. That the common pin will connect to the normal closed (N.C.) pin. or connects to the normal open (N.O.).

Question: What is the difference between a contact switch and a limit switch?

Answer: A contact switch and a limit switch are both types of electrical switches, but they serve different purposes and are used in different applications. Here are the main differences between the two:
Contact switch: A contact switch is a general term for a switch that functions by making or breaking an electrical connection when its contacts touch or separate. Contact switches are used in various applications for connecting, disconnecting, or controlling the direction of electric current in a circuit. Examples of contact switches include push-button switches, toggle switches, rocker switches, and rotary switches.
Limit switch: A limit switch is a specific type of contact switch used primarily in industrial applications and machinery. It is designed to detect the presence or absence of an object, or to monitor the position of a moving part within a predetermined range or limit. Limit switches are often used as safety devices to prevent the operation of equipment beyond its intended range. They are typically actuated by physical contact with an object or part, such as a lever, roller, or plunger. When the object reaches a certain position, the limit switch is triggered, causing a change in the electrical circuit to stop, start, or reverse the operation of a machine or process.
In summary, a contact switch is a broader term that encompasses various types of switches used for controlling electrical connections in a circuit, whereas a limit switch is a specific type of contact switch used for detecting the position or presence of objects and ensuring the safe operation of machinery and equipment.