-
Filter By Stock
- In Stock (12)
Toggle Switches – Mini, PCB Mount & Heavy Duty Switches
Popular Products
Toggle Switches – Mini, PCB Mount & Heavy Duty Switches
Shop toggle switches at AU Electronics Direct. Explore our range of electronic toggle switches, including SPST, SPDT, DPST and DPDT switches, miniature toggle switches, PCB mount switches, solder tail switches and heavy-duty panel mount toggle switches.
Available in different switching configurations, electrical ratings and mounting styles, our toggle switches are suitable for electronic projects, electrical equipment, control panels, automotive accessories and DIY applications. Choose from on-off, centre-off and momentary switching mechanisms, as well as metal lever switches and illuminated toggle switch options.
Whether you need a compact PCB mount toggle switch for an electronic circuit or a heavy-duty 10A toggle switch for equipment control, browse our selection to find a suitable switching component. Compare pole configurations, contact ratings, mounting hole diameters, terminal types and operating positions to select the right toggle switch for your application.
Types of Toggle Switches
Toggle switches are manually operated electrical switches that use a lever mechanism to open, close or change the connection within an electrical circuit. They are available in different sizes, electrical configurations and mounting styles for electronic equipment, machinery and control applications.
SPST Toggle Switches
SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) toggle switches control one electrical circuit through a single switching contact. They are commonly used for basic on/off applications in electronic projects and electrical equipment.
SPDT Toggle Switches
SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) toggle switches allow one input connection to switch between two output connections. They are useful in applications requiring selection between two circuit paths or operating positions.
DPST Toggle Switches
DPST (Double Pole Single Throw) toggle switches control two separate electrical circuits simultaneously using a single switching mechanism. They are suitable for applications requiring two circuits to be switched together.
DPDT Toggle Switches
DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw) toggle switches allow two separate circuits to switch between two sets of contacts. They are commonly used in electronic control circuits and applications requiring more complex switching arrangements.
Miniature and PCB Mount Toggle Switches
Miniature toggle switches provide compact switching solutions for electronic devices, circuit boards and small equipment. PCB mount models are designed for direct installation onto printed circuit boards, while solder-tail versions provide terminals for soldered electrical connections.
These switches are useful for electronic prototyping, equipment controls, circuit selection and DIY electronics projects where installation space is limited.
Heavy Duty Toggle Switches
Heavy-duty toggle switches are designed for applications requiring more robust mechanical construction and higher electrical contact ratings. They are commonly used in electrical equipment, control panels and suitable automotive or industrial applications.
When choosing a heavy-duty toggle switch, check its rated voltage, current capacity, contact configuration, mounting dimensions and terminal specifications.
Momentary and Centre-Off Toggle Switches
Toggle switches are available with different operating positions and switching actions.
-
On-Off switches: Provide two maintained switching positions for controlling a circuit.
-
On-On switches: Allow selection between two maintained circuit positions.
-
Centre-Off switches: Feature a neutral centre position between two operating positions.
-
Momentary toggle switches: Return to their normal position when released from the momentary operating position.
The correct switching action depends on the requirements of the electrical circuit and intended application.
Toggle Switch Covers and Accessories
Toggle switch accessories can provide additional protection and improve the appearance and operation of switch installations. Covers and guards can help protect toggle levers against accidental operation and physical contact.
Check accessory compatibility with the switch dimensions, lever design and mounting configuration before purchasing.
How to Choose the Right Toggle Switch
Consider the following specifications when selecting a toggle switch:
-
Pole and throw configuration: Determine whether SPST, SPDT, DPST or DPDT switching is required.
-
Electrical rating: Check the rated voltage and current for the intended AC or DC application.
-
Switching positions: Choose between on-off, on-on, centre-off and momentary configurations.
-
Mounting style: Select PCB mount, panel mount or solder-tail configurations.
-
Mounting dimensions: Check the required mounting hole diameter and available installation space.
-
Terminal type: Confirm compatibility with the wiring or PCB connection method.
-
Actuator material: Consider metal or other lever constructions based on the application.
Always ensure the switch is rated for the intended electrical load and installation conditions.
Applications of Toggle Switches
Toggle switches are widely used in electronic equipment, electrical control panels, automotive accessories, DIY electronics, machinery and electrical appliances.
Common applications include power control, circuit selection, equipment operation, lighting controls and switching between different operating modes.
Browse our range of toggle switches at AU Electronics Direct to find suitable switching components for your next electronics project or equipment installation.
FAQ
1. What is a toggle switch?
A toggle switch is an electrical switch operated using a small lever or handle. Moving the lever changes the electrical connection within a circuit, allowing equipment to be switched on or off or between different operating positions.
2. What is the difference between SPST and SPDT toggle switches?
An SPST toggle switch controls one circuit through a single switching path. An SPDT toggle switch has one common input that can connect to either of two outputs.
3. What is the difference between DPST and DPDT toggle switches?
A DPST switch controls two separate circuits with one switching action. A DPDT switch controls two circuits and allows each to change between two contact positions.
4. What is a centre-off toggle switch?
A centre-off toggle switch has three operating positions, with the middle position disconnecting the relevant switched contacts. It is useful for applications requiring two operating directions with a neutral position.
5. What is a momentary toggle switch?
A momentary toggle switch returns to its normal position when released from its momentary position. It is commonly used for temporary control functions and circuit activation.
6. What is a PCB mount toggle switch?
A PCB mount toggle switch is designed to be installed directly onto a printed circuit board. It provides a compact switching solution for electronic devices and circuit applications.
7. How do I know what size toggle switch I need?
Check the switch mounting hole diameter, bushing dimensions, actuator length, terminal arrangement and available installation space. Also verify the electrical contact rating and switching configuration.
8. What is the difference between an on-off and an on-on toggle switch?
An on-off toggle switch has an operating position that connects the circuit and another that disconnects it. An on-on toggle switch maintains a connection in either of two positions, selecting between different contact paths depending on its configuration.
