Three Position (No Center OFF) Rocker Switches
Last Updated: April 1, 2025
Description
Three Position (No Center OFF) Rocker Switches are electrical switches that allow the user to control a circuit by toggling between three distinct positions. Unlike some other rocker switches, these do not have a center OFF position, meaning that the switch is always in an active state, either connecting or disconnecting different circuits depending on its position.
Working Principle
These switches operate by physically moving a rocker mechanism to change the state of the electrical contacts inside the switch. When the rocker is toggled, it shifts the internal contacts to either connect or disconnect the circuit. This design is particularly useful because it allows for continuous operation without a neutral or off state, making it ideal for applications where constant control is necessary.
Applications
Three Position (No Center OFF) Rocker Switches are used in various applications where continuous operation is required. Specific examples include:
- Computer Hardware: Used to control power or reset functions without interrupting the operation.
- Power Supplies and Battery Chargers: To switch between different power modes or charging states.
- Instrumentation: For selecting different measurement modes or ranges.
- Household Appliances: Such as in fan speed controls or light dimmers where an off state is not desired.
- Telecommunications and Medical Equipment: Where reliable and continuous operation is critical.
- Industrial Equipment: For machinery that requires constant operation without interruption.
Advantages over other Rocker Switches
One of the main advantages of Three Position (No Center OFF) Rocker Switches over other types is their ability to maintain continuous operation without an off state. This is particularly beneficial in applications where an off state could disrupt processes or where constant control is necessary. Additionally, their design can simplify the user interface by reducing the need for additional switches to maintain operation.
Limitations
A specific limitation of these switches is their lack of an off position, which can be a drawback in applications where a complete disconnection of the circuit is occasionally necessary. This can lead to increased energy consumption and potential wear on the connected devices if they are not designed to handle continuous operation.
Considerations
When selecting Three Position (No Center OFF) Rocker Switches, several factors should be considered:
- Initial Costs: These switches may have a higher initial cost compared to simpler on-off switches due to their more complex design.
- Operating Expense: Continuous operation can lead to higher energy consumption, which should be factored into the overall operating costs.
- Durability: The constant switching action can lead to wear and tear, so it's important to choose switches with robust construction for high-use applications.
- Accuracy: Ensure that the switch provides precise control over the connected circuits to avoid unintended operation.
- Replacement and Maintenance Costs: Consider the ease of replacement and the availability of spare parts, as well as the potential need for regular maintenance to ensure reliable operation.
from RS Components, Ltd.
DPST, On-None-Off Rocker Switch Panel Mo [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-None-Off
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 0.8268
from Waytek, Inc.
Carling Technologies VDD1S00B-00000-000 Rocker Switches. Category: Rocker Switches. Manufacturer: Carling Technologies. Component: Switch Body. Circuitry: DPDT. Illumination: Unlit. Contact Action: On-None-On. Number of Contacts: 6. Current Rating: 20A. Voltage Rating: 12VDC. Modular design. Easy... [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Double Throw
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 5A (AC/DC) 120V Panel Mount, Flange [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.09
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.6480
from RS Components, Ltd.
SWITCH ROCKER SPST 10A 125V [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-None-Off
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 0.7559
from Waytek, Inc.
Eaton EURO-SR Rocker Switch 8006K46N1V2. Category: Rocker Switches. Manufacturer: Eaton. Field-proven in. America's roughest off-road applications. Rugged and reliable rocker switch. Dust and moisture resistant silicone seal. Aesthetically pleasing thermoplastic matte finish rocker actuators. Rocker... [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Double Throw
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 0.4VA (AC/DC) 20V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.6000
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.5000
from RS Components, Ltd.
ROCKER,SPST,LATCH,THRU HOLE-STRAIGHT [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-None-Off
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 0.5118
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch 4PDT PCB, Through Hole, Vertical Right Angle [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Pole & Throw Specifications: 4PDT
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Current Rating: 0.4000
from RS Components, Ltd.
SWITCH ROCKER SPST 16A 125V [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-None-Off
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7953
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 6A (AC), 3A (DC) 125V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Paddle
- Length / Diameter: 0.6260
from RS Components, Ltd.
SWITCH ROCKER SPST 16A 125V [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-None-Off
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7953
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 6A (AC), 3A (DC) 125V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.6260
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.5157
from RS Components, Ltd.
Switch Rocker 49 x 24.5mm on-on-on [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-On-On
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 0.8307
from DigiKey
SWITCH ROCKER MINIATURE SNAP [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.6260
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.5157
from RS Components, Ltd.
Rockers SP3T,6A 125V AC M Body [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-On-On
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 0.2717
from DigiKey
SWITCH ROCKER MINIATURE SNAP [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.7362
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.6260
from RS Components, Ltd.
ON-ON-ON Illum FNR Black Rocker switch I [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-On-On
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7559
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SPDT 20A (DC) Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from RS Components, Ltd.
ON-ON-ON Black Rocker switch IP69K [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-On-On
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7559
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 20A (DC) Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from RS Components, Ltd.
Switch,Rocker,Triple Throw,On-On-On,20A [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-On-On
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 1.46
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from RS Components, Ltd.
Switch 20A 12VDC SP On-On-On Grn/Amb [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Momentary Contact Switch Function: On-On-On
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SPDT 20A (DC) Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.45
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8299
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch DPDT 15A (AC) 125V Panel Mount, Flange [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Pole & Throw Specifications: Double Pole, Double Throw
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Current Rating: 15
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch DPDT 3A (AC), 2A (DC) 125V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.14
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7500
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch DPDT 3A (AC), 2A (DC) 125V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.14
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7500
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 8A (DC) Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.18
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.8661
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch DP3T 1A (DC) Panel Mount, Threaded Body with Nut [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.7953
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Pole & Throw Specifications: DP3T
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch DP3T 1A (DC) Panel Mount, Threaded Body with Nut [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.7953
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Pole & Throw Specifications: DP3T
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch DP3T 5A (AC/DC) 120V Through Hole [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Paddle
- Length / Diameter: 0.7071
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 5A (AC/DC) 120V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 0.6201
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.5000
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 0.4VA (AC/DC) 28V Through Hole, Right Angle, Vertical [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Pole & Throw Specifications: SP3T
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Mechanical Life: 50000
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch SP3T 0.4VA (AC/DC) 28V Through Hole [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Pole & Throw Specifications: SP3T
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Mechanical Life: 50000
from DigiKey
Rocker Switch 4PDT 3A (AC), 2A (DC) 125V Panel Mount, Snap-In [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Length / Diameter: 1.14
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Width: 0.7500
from Carling Technologies, Inc.
The 622/632-Series miniature rocker switches are nonilluminated or illuminated and are available in single or double pole configurations. These switches provide 100 amp inrush capability. They fit into industry standard cutout dimensions, and include a quick-make contact mechanism. Other features... [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker
- Length / Diameter: 0.7800
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Illuminated versions available. Multiple actuator and. termination styles. Robust design. Custom version upon request. RoHS compliant. Typical Applications. Appliances. Office equipment. Computers and peripherals. Off-road vehicles. Industrial machines. HVAC units. Transportation [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker (optional feature); Paddle (optional feature)
- Length / Diameter: 1.19 to 1.21
from Carling Technologies, Inc.
The LRGSC-Series Super Curvette illuminated rocker switches offer double pole circuitry with higher electrical ratings and high inrush capabilities.These switches can handle up to 125 amp peak inrush current. Due to the patented mounting ear design, they are compatible with a wide range of standard... [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker
- Length / Diameter: 1.18
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Round actuator and body. Nice styling. Multiple illuminated versions available. IP65 splash proof rubber boot option. Typical Applications. Appliances, small and large. Office equipment. Computers and peripherals. Audio/Video equipment. RoHS compliant [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker (optional feature); Paddle (optional feature)
- Length / Diameter: 0.8307
from C&K Components
Features/Benefits. Illuminated versions available. Positive detent. Snap-in mounting. Typical Applications. Floor care products. Power outlet strips. HVAC units. RoHS compliant [See More]
- Maintained Contact Switch Function: Three Position (No Center OFF)
- Switch Function: Maintained
- Rocker Actuator: Rocker
- Length / Diameter: 1.13 to 1.15