Knobs / Switches / Meter Temperature Controllers
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Knobs, switches, and meter temperature controllers are devices used to regulate and control temperature in various systems. These controllers typically feature a user interface, such as a knob or switch, that allows for manual adjustment of the temperature setpoint. They are designed to maintain a desired temperature by turning heating or cooling devices on or off as needed.
Working Principle
Temperature controllers operate by comparing the actual temperature to a desired setpoint and then taking action to minimize the difference. On-off controllers, for example, switch the output on or off when the temperature crosses a predetermined setpoint. This simple mechanism is effective for maintaining temperature within a certain range. The usefulness of these controllers lies in their ability to automate temperature regulation, reducing the need for constant human intervention and ensuring consistent environmental conditions.
Applications
Temperature controllers are used in a variety of applications, including industrial processes where precise temperature control is crucial. Specific examples include controlling the temperature in boilers, furnaces, and HVAC systems. They are also used in laboratory settings to maintain the required conditions for experiments and in hot runner systems for plastic injection molding.
Advantages over other Temperature Controllers
Knobs and switches offer simplicity and ease of use, making them ideal for environments where quick adjustments are necessary. They are particularly advantageous in harsh industrial settings where more complex digital controllers might be susceptible to electrical noise. Their straightforward design often results in lower initial costs and easier maintenance compared to more sophisticated controllers.
Limitations
One limitation of knob and switch temperature controllers is their lack of precision compared to digital controllers. They may not be suitable for applications requiring highly accurate temperature control. Additionally, their on-off nature can lead to temperature fluctuations around the setpoint, which might not be acceptable in all scenarios.
Considerations
When selecting a knob or switch temperature controller, consider the initial cost, which is generally lower than digital controllers. However, operating expenses might be higher due to less efficient temperature regulation. Durability is typically high, especially in rugged industrial models, but accuracy can be a concern. Replacement and maintenance costs are usually minimal, but it's important to ensure that the controller is suitable for the specific environmental conditions it will be used in.
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (RTD, Type J) 230 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit; PID
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from Tempco Electric Heater Corporation
TEC-9100 PID temperature control. Standard size thermocouple jack. 5-foot, 3-conductor line cord. 20A straight-blade heater receptacle with ground. Fused at 20A. 25A mechanical relay. Enclosure Dimensions: 6"H × 6 "W × 6 "D. Wall mounting slots: 4" centers side to side, 6-3/4" centers... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: PID
- Temperature: Thermocouple
from Tecmark Corporation
Command Centers® are complete spa-side control packages designed for durability and user convenience in both new installations and replacement applications. They are available with two, three and four transmitter button configurations, and are equipped with a remote sensing thermostat, power cord,... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Temperature: Heating
from STEGO
The electronic DC hygrostat with integrated switch module is used to control heating and cooling equipment, filter fans or signal devices through the relay. The hygrostat measures the relative humidity and can switch a signal current via an internal relay. The external sensor can be positioned... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control: Limit
- Controller Type: Humidity
- Features: Multi-Function
from Thermon, Inc
The well established Thermon TraceNet range has now been extended by the TraceNet ECM - Electronic Control Module. This highly accurate state of the art controller has a very wide control range and can be located in hazardous areas. It has been designed for a wide range of ambient temperatures where... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Temperature: Heating
- Controller Type: Heat Tracing and Freeze Protection
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type K) 100 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from Tempco Electric Heater Corporation
PCT-3000 Series TEC-220 Programmable PID Temperature Control [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: PID
- Temperature: Thermocouple
from STEGO
The electronic hygrotherm simultaneously monitors temperature and air humidity in enclosures and cabinets. Condensation is avoided by switching the heating and fans as required. In the design with an external sensor, this can be placed anywhere in the enclosure, enabling precise measurement. [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control: Limit
- Controller Type: Humidity
- Features: Multi-Function
from Thermon, Inc
This unit is designed with a bulb and capillary assembly that automatically regulates the fuel flow to the Cata-Dyne ™ heater. The sensing bulb is filled with temperature sensitive liquid, which responds to changes in temperature by expanding or contracting. This modulates the flow of fuel... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control Signal: Other
- Control: Limit
- Temperature: Heating
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type J) 100 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount, Socketable [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
- Control: PID
- Temperature: Thermocouple
from Tempco Electric Heater Corporation
Design Features. The Encapsulated Design allows for use in areas of high humidity and components are less likely to be damaged in handling. 1/4" Quick Disconnect terminals make installation a snap. Heavy duty 30 Amp (UL rated 20 Amp) relay output. Compact footprint can easily fit into most... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Board
- Control: PID
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type J) 100 ~ 120VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from Tempco Electric Heater Corporation
PCT-2000 Series — TKZ Encapsulated Electronic Temperature Control [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: PID
- Temperature: Thermocouple
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type J) 100 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type J) 100 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type K) 100 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Type K) 100 ~ 240VAC Panel Mount [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from DigiKey
Temperature Controller (Thermistor, NTC) 100 ~ 240VAC Socketable [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Socketable
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output; Relay
from Process Technology
Provides general control for consistent plating and etch rates in most aqueous processes. FEATURES. Large, easy to read dial.. Fluoropolymer (FEP) covered 5-foot (1.5m) copper bulb and capillary provided standard with the control. Provides extended service in corrosive liquids. Ethylene glycol... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from Burger & Brown Engineering, Inc.
The Smartflow ® Mold Temperature Regulator effectively controls mold cooling water temperature between 80 °F and 120 °F (27 °C and 49 °C) to maintain a steady mold temperature. Installed to control water flow exiting an injection mold, the Mold Temperature Regulator quietly... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: In-line Mounting
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from DME Company
Uses High Power Smart Series 30 Amp Slot Size Control Module - Not Supplied. J type thermocouple standard. K type thermocouple by special order. 240 VAC power input version. 30 Amp 240Vac Rated Circular Connector with Screw Terminals for mold power and mini J-T/C direct connection. Uses... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from Armstrong International
A compact pneumatic temperature pilot with broad temperature ranges, the OBK-2000 can be located away from the regulator valve, an advantage not available with a conventional capillary system. Capable of reverse or direct-acting operation, the OBK-2000 features a simple design with fewer moving... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from Regloplas Corp.
Temperature control unit for thermal oil up to 570 °F: 300L [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from Sifam Tinsley UK
RE92 Dual loop controller for industry purpose. RE92 is an advanced dual loop controller for industrial use. It was designed for demanding industrial applications. RE92 can control two controlled objects independently or control two physical values in one object (e.g. in the two zone furnaces). [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel; Computer Programmable; Network
- Features: Multi-Function; Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: PID
- Form Factor: Chassis
from Ziehl-Abegg Inc.
For simple manual speed regulation 5-step transformer-based controllers for single-phase and three-phase fans are available. We supply the corresponding switchgear for multi-speed motors. Motor protection devices are available for thermal monitoring based on thermostats or thermistors (PTC). [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from West Control Solutions
An easy-to-use 1/16DIN analogue time-proportioning temperature controller. Limited configurations available – please check with local sales office for availability. Benefits & Features. 1/16 DIN (48 x 48mm). Analogue dial setpoint selection. Main output – proportioning. Optional... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit; PID
- Control Outputs: 2
from Heat Exchange & Transfer, Inc.
HEAT, Inc. electric process control centers are pre-engineered, pre-wired, control assemblies designed to operate as a temperature activated power controlling device for any type of resistive heating load. All control centers are built to the National Electric Code utilizing U.L. listed components. [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from Invotec Solutions Ltd.
The industries favourite single zone controllers 10A. The Athena single zone controllers uses the same microprocessor-based circuitry used in the IMP or RMC modules to perform all required control functions. Units have built-in diagnostics and are fully self-tuning setpoint temperatures are... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Zones: 1
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from Selco Products Company
For applications where high precision temperature control is required and where time and/or temperature reading must be displayed, these electronic controls offer an advanced solution over standard electro-mechanical component thermostats. Selco offers high-end electronic features to provide... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Inputs: 3
- Form Factor: Board; Stand-Alone
- Type: Switch / Relay Input
from DBK USA, Inc.
DBK ’s FGDT D-Stat (dualstat) has a patented over and under design with two separate thermostats within one housing. The D-Stats can simultaneously control independent heating and cooling equipment. They are made with reliable bimetal technology. D-Stats have a unique narrow 33mm profile and... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Analog Voltage Output; Current Loop Output
from Nordson EFD
Prevent material degradation and eliminate deposit size variation with the ProcessMate ™ 6500 Temperature Control Unit from Nordson EFD. This simple-to-integrate process controller maintains precise temperatures during dispensing to preserve the properties of temperature-sensitive materials... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Media: Liquid; Other; Solder Paste
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The Model 6102 Temperature Controller is one of OMEGA ’s lowest cost units with all the features of big controllers. Packaged in a small size to save you space and money, Model 6102 temperature controllers plug into an unbreakable nylon socket which can be mounted individually or snapped onto... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis; Track Mount
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from Glenro Inc.
Proven Performance. Controls Fast or Slow Response Heaters. Compact, Wall-Mount Design. Underwriter Approved. Manual/Automatic Control. Saves Energy, Promotes Product Uniformity & Process Repeatability. CS2000 Standard Specifications. Number of Control Zones: 1, 2 or 3. NEMA 12 Enclosure. Panel... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Zones: 1 to 3
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Temperature: Heating
from Process Technology
Provides general control for consistent plating and etch rates in most aqueous processes. FEATURES. Large, easy to read dial. Fluoropolymer (FEP) covered 5-foot (1.5m) copper bulb and capillary provided standard with the control. Provides extended service in corrosive liquids. Ethylene glycol filled... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Chassis
- Control: Limit
- Inputs: 1
from DME Company
Uses Standard Smart Series 15 Amp Slot Size Control Modules - Not Supplied. J Type Thermocouple standard. K Type Thermocouple by special order. 240 VAC power input version. 15 Amp 240Vac Rated Circular Connector with Screw Terminals for mold power and T/C direct connection. Uses mini-thermocouple... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from Regloplas Corp.
The dual-zone temperature control unit for thermal oil up to. 570 °F: 300LD [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from Sifam Tinsley UK
Features. • Universal measuring input. • Binary input control. • Set point value: fixed value, programmed or from an additional input. • On/off , PID, PID step-by-step control (valve control) or PID of heating-cooling type. • Soft start. • 8 types of alarms. •... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel; Computer Programmable; Network
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit; PID
- Form Factor: Chassis
from West Control Solutions
An easy-to-use 1/16DIN analogue time-proportioning temperature controller. Limited configurations available – please check with local sales office for availability. Benefits & Features. 1/16 DIN (48 x 48mm). Analogue dial setpoint selection. Main output – proportioning. Second output... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit; PID
- Control Outputs: 2
from DBK USA, Inc.
• Integrated 35mm DIN Rail mounting features (EN 60715). • Adjustable temperatures control. • Broad temperature range. • 100,000 cycle rating at 100V-250V AC. • Compact and lightweight. • UL, CSA and VDE approved [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Analog Voltage Output; Current Loop Output
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The OMEGA ® 4200A Series is an ideal controller for RTD applications. This quality-built linearized instrument is available in both 1.0 ° and 0.1 ° resolution models. Higher accuracies, accuracies 5 to 10 times greater than the typical 1% meter indicating controller, are achieved through... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit; Linear
- Form Factor: DIN
from DME Company
J type thermocouple standard. K type thermocouple by special order. 240 VAC and 120 VAC power input versions available. SSH version North American standard wiring in degrees F. ESH version European Union standard wiring in degrees C. Uses a 5 Pin 10 Amp 240Vac Rated Connector with Screw Terminals... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Media: Liquid
from Regloplas Corp.
The temperature control unit for thermal oil up to 570 °F: 300S [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from West Control Solutions
CALogix is a modular system that consists of a DIN-rail mounted base unit and up to 4 control modules. PID and logic modules can be added to the base unit in any configuration ensuring the exact requirements of your application can be met. CALogix is sub panel mounted which means that CALogix can be... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit; PID
- Type: DC Voltage Inputs; Current Loop (Transmitter) Excitation
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The CSC32 series compact benchtop controllers are ideal for laboratory use and applications requiring portable temperature and process control. Pre-wired input and output receptacles in the rear of the case enable quick and easy connections to power, input, power output and digital communications. [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Computer Programmable
- Features: Is a Chart Recorder; Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit; PID
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from DME Company
Uses Standard Smart Series 15 Amp Slot Size Control Modules - Not Supplied. User MUST swap 15Amp Module fuses with Supplied 10 Amp Module Fuses. J type thermocouple standard. K type thermocouple by special order. 240 VAC and 120 VAC power input versions available. 10 AMP 5 PIN Connector - North... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from Regloplas Corp.
The temperature control unit for thermal oil up to 660 °F: 350L [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from West Control Solutions
The safety temperature limiter STB 55 is used wherever thermal processes need to be monitored, and the plant switched into a safe condition in case of a fault. If the permissible temperature limit is reached or if a fault occurs in the monitoring equipment within the permissible temperature range... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit
- Control Signal: Switched Output
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The CN700 Series thermocouple FM approved high limit controllers provide audible alarm status along with a robust 15 amp relay output. Unit allows the user to easily select automatic or manual reset along with 10 other parameters. The CN700 series has a built in reset button on the front panel or... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control: Limit
- Controller Type: Environmental; HVAC
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
from DME Company
Integrity Mainframes: IMF1200 = 12 Zone Mainframe ( Option A Power = Full Power available for all 12 Zones = 3600 Watts, 15 Amps, 240Vac ). IMF2400 = 24 Zone Mainframe ( Option A Power = Average Power for all 24 Zones = 1,875 Watts each ). IMF4800 = 48 Zone Mainframe ( Option A Power = Average Power... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from Regloplas Corp.
Pressurized-water temperature control unit up to 212 °F: P100M [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from West Control Solutions
The TB 45 temperature limiter is intended for precise, cost-effective signal monitoring & limiting tasks. The TB 45 can be used for heating and refrigeration processes. It is suitable for all thermocouple types and resistance type sensors. It is particularly designed for use in: All applications... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: DIN
- Control: Limit
- Type: DC Voltage Inputs; Current Loop (Transmitter) Excitation
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The CN350, CN360 and CN370 Series controllers are designed for economical and easy use. Models are available with digital, deviation, or non-indicating display, for J, K, R, and S thermocouples or 100 . platinum RTD input. The small 1.88" (48 mm) square face, 1.77" square cutout ( 1 /16 DIN) and... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control: Limit; PID
- Controller Type: Environmental; HVAC
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
from DME Company
The compact, simple-to-operate device for heating and maintaining constant mold temperature. It can be difficult to settle a mold into a steady-state condition. Now with the innovative mold temperature regulator, your work is done by your new best friend. You can heat your mold using otherwise... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Features: Rate Indication/ Control
- Control: Limit
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
from Regloplas Corp.
Pressurized-water temperature control unit up to 212 °F: P100S [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The OMEGALUX ® percentage controller is a manually adjustable control which provides variable selection of average heater power. The controller varies the proportion of “off ” and “on ” time of the heater. Thermal characteristics of the heated item will determine the... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Type: Temperature Probe
from DME Company
Smart Series ® 12 Zone Mainframe. 12 Zone Smart Series 15Amp Mainframe Connector Overview. Uses 12 Standard Smart Series 15 Amp Slot Size Control Modules - Not Supplied. Standard 50 Amp Three Phase Breaker ( Can Special order 70 Amp Breaker ). J type thermocouple standard. K type thermocouple by... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Zones: 12
from Regloplas Corp.
Pressurized-water temperature control unit up to 285 °F: P141XL [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
The CN3261 Series High Limit Controller protects expensive heaters and sensitive materials from damaging over temperature conditions. It is designed for industrial and commercial applications that require high temperature protection. The CN3261 features a Form C latching, manually resettable relay... [See More]
- Interface: Switches
- Control: Limit
- Controller Type: Environmental; HVAC
- Form Factor: Chassis (optional feature); DIN (optional feature)
from DME Company
Smart Series ® 16 Zone Mainframe ( Uses one 70 Amp breaker with (2) 8 Zone Base Mainframes as shown ). Uses Two - 8 Zone Smart Series 15Amp Mainframe Connector Overview. Uses 16 Standard Smart Series 15 Amp Slot Size Control Modules - Not Supplied. Standard 50 Amp Three Phase Breaker ( Can... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Zones: 16
from Regloplas Corp.
Pressurized-water temperature control unit up to 320 °F: P160MD [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid
from DME Company
Smart Series ® 2 Zone High Power Mainframe (30 Amp Slots). 2 Zone Smart Series 30Amp Mainframe Connector Overview. Uses 2 Standard High Power Smart Series 30 Amp Slot Size Control Modules - Not Supplied. Standard 50 Amp Three Phase Breaker ( Can Special order 70 Amp Breaker ). J type... [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel (optional feature)
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Control: Limit
- Zones: 2
from Regloplas Corp.
Pressurized-water temperature control unit up to 320 °F: P161XL [See More]
- Interface: Switches; Digital Front Panel
- Temperature: Heating
- Form Factor: Stand-Alone
- Media: Liquid