Last revised: January 6, 2025       

Dual in-line package (DIP) switches are electronic packages that consist of a series of tiny switches.                                                                                                                      

DIP switches are used to configure computers and peripherals such as circuit boards and modems. Actuator choices for DIP switches include slide actuators, rocker actuators, and side actuated levers (piano).  A slide actuator configuration can have raised or recessed slides.  A rocker actuator configuration can have raised or recessed rockers.  A side actuated lever configuration is typically called piano style, the "keys" are pressed down to actuate.  The number of positions available is equivalent to the number of actuators on the DIP switch.

Types

DIP switches can be normally open, normally closed, or three stage.

A normally open (NO) switch has contacts that are open or disconnected in their unactuated (normal) position.

A normally closed (NC) switch has contacts that are closed or connected in their unactuated (normal) position.

A three stage switch has three positions (e.g. ON - OFF – ON).                             

Pole and throw configurations for DIP switches can be single pole single throw (SPST), single pole double throw (SPDT), double pole single throw (DPST), or double pole double throw (DPDT).

Configurations

SPST is a switch that makes or breaks the connection of a single conductor in a single branch circuit. This switch typically has two terminals. It is commonly referred to as a "Single-Pole" Switch.

SPDT is a switch that makes or breaks the connection of a single conductor with either of two other single conductors. This switch typically has three terminals, and is commonly used in pairs and called a "Three-Way" switch.

DPST is a switch that makes or breaks the connection of two circuit conductors in a single branch circuit. This switch typically has four terminals.

DPDT is a switch that makes or breaks the connection of two conductors to two separate circuits. This switch typically has six terminals and is available in both momentary and maintained contact versions.

Other types have more than two poles, such as switches designed to split loads into separate circuits (e.g., headlamp switch).

Specifications                                 

Important electrical switch specifications to consider when searching for DIP switches include maximum current rating, maximum AC voltage rating, maximum DC voltage rating, and maximum power rating.

Choices for terminal types on DIP switches include quick connect or blade, surface mount technology, straight PC pins, right angle PC pins, and side PC pins.

Common features for DIP switches include imprinted markings, tape and reel packaging, CE certification, CSA certification, UL listed, dustproof, and weather resistant or waterproof.

An important environmental parameter to consider is the operating temperature.  

Standards    

DSCC-DWG-09003 — Switches, dual in-line package (DIP), rocker actuator, standard

profile, single pole, single throw stations, sealed base

EIA-520EAAD — Detail specification for dual-in-line package (DIP) switches, raised and recessed slide actuated

MIL-S-83504/1 — Switches, dual in-line package (DIP) rocker actuator, standard profile, single pole, single throw stations, sealed base

DIP Switch FAQs

What are the key differences between the various types of DIP switches and their typical applications?

The key differences between various types of DIP switches and their typical applications can be summarized as follows:

Single Pole Single Throw (SPST): This type of switch makes or breaks the connection of a single conductor in a single branch circuit. It typically has two terminals and is commonly referred to as a "Single-Pole" switch.

Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT): This switch makes or breaks the connection of a single conductor with either of two other conductors. It often has three terminals and is used in pairs as three-way switches.

Double Pole Single Throw (DPST): This type of switch makes or breaks the connections of two circuit conductors in a single branch circuit, usually having four terminals.

Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT): This switch makes or breaks the connections of two conductors to two separate circuits, typically having six terminals.

DIP switches can have various configurations such as SPST, SPDT, DPST, and DPDT, which determine how they control electrical circuits.

They come with different terminal types like quick connect, surface mount technology (SMT), straight PC pins, right angle PC pins, and side PC pins.

Common features include imprinted markings, tape and reel packaging, and certifications like CE, CSA, and UL. They may also be dustproof, weather-resistant, or waterproof.

Rotary Coded DIP Switches: These are used in navigation and communication equipment for the avionics industry, precision measurement equipment gauges, test and measuring equipment, commercial sound mixing and editing consoles, military voice and data communications, radios, and transmitters and receivers.

How do the terminal types affect the installation of DIP switches?

The terminal types of DIP switches significantly affect their installation process. Here's how different terminal types influence installation:

Quick Connect or Blade Terminals

These terminals do not require soldering, allowing for rapid insertion and removal. This makes them ideal for applications where frequent changes or replacements are needed.

Surface Mount Technology (SMT)

SMT involves soldering component leads or terminals to the top surface of a printed circuit board (PCB). This method is suitable for automated assembly processes and is commonly used in compact electronic devices.

Straight PC Pins, Right Angle PC Pins, and Side PC Pins

These pin types are used to attach DIP switches to PCBs. The choice between straight, right angle, and side pins depends on the layout and space constraints of the PCB design. Each type offers different mounting orientations, which can affect the overall design and accessibility of the switch on the board.

These terminal types provide flexibility in installation, allowing engineers to choose the most appropriate method based on the specific requirements of their application.

What are the environmental considerations for DIP switches?

When considering the environmental factors for DIP switches, several key aspects should be taken into account to ensure their reliable performance in various conditions:

DIP switches must be able to operate within specific temperature ranges. Extreme temperatures can affect their performance. High temperatures may cause overheating, while low temperatures can lead to issues like ice formation in actuator wells. Sealing solutions, such as boots and bushings, can provide insulation against these temperature extremes.

Environmental contaminants such as dust, dirt, oils, and chemicals can negatively impact the performance of DIP switches. Sealing solutions are essential to prevent the intrusion of these contaminants, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the switches.

Some DIP switches are designed to be dustproof, weather-resistant, or waterproof, making them suitable for outdoor or harsh environments. These features help protect the switches from environmental elements that could otherwise compromise their functionality.

Depending on the application, DIP switches may need to be housed in enclosures that meet specific standards, such as NEMA-class enclosures, to protect them from environmental factors like moisture and physical damage.

In environments where switches are exposed to chemicals, such as in medical or industrial settings, it is crucial to consider the chemical resistance of the switch materials. This ensures that the switches can withstand exposure without degradation.

These considerations are vital for selecting the appropriate DIP switch for a given application, ensuring that it can withstand the environmental conditions it will encounter.

How do sealing solutions work for protecting switches?

Sealing solutions play a crucial role in protecting switches from environmental factors that could compromise their performance. Here's how they work:

Sealing solutions such as boots and bushings provide insulation against extreme temperatures. They help prevent overheating in high temperatures and ice formation in low temperatures by keeping moisture out of actuator wells.

Sealing solutions form a 360° airtight seal around the switch, base, and mounting hole. This prevents the intrusion of unwanted fluids like oils, chemicals, and even spilled food and beverages, which can travel down mounting holes and affect internal circuitry.

Some sealing solutions are designed to make switches dustproof, weather-resistant, or waterproof, which is essential for outdoor or harsh environments.

In environments where switches are exposed to chemicals, sealing solutions help protect against chemical ingress, ensuring that the switch materials do not degrade over time.

These sealing solutions are vital for maintaining the reliability and longevity of switches in various applications, especially those exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

What are the types of sealing solutions available for switches?

Sealing solutions for switches are essential for protecting them from environmental factors that could compromise their performance. Here are some types of sealing solutions available for switches

Sealing Boots and Bushings

These are designed to provide insulation against extreme temperatures, preventing overheating in high temperatures and ice formation in low temperatures by keeping moisture out of actuator wells.

They form a 360° airtight seal around the switch, base, and mounting hole, preventing the intrusion of unwanted fluids such as oils, chemicals, and even spilled food and beverages.

IP-Rated Devices

In industrial environments, IP-rated switches are often used to ensure protection against dust and water ingress. These ratings indicate the level of protection provided by the switch enclosure.

For environments where safety is a concern, a splash-proof boot can be used in conjunction with IP-rated devices to provide an additional barrier against contaminants.

These sealing solutions are crucial for maintaining the reliability and longevity of switches, especially in harsh environmental conditions.

What are the benefits of using IP-rated switches in industrial environments?

Using IP-rated switches in industrial environments offers several benefits, particularly in terms of protection and reliability. Here are some key advantages:

Protection Against Dust and Water

IP-rated switches are designed to prevent the ingress of dust and water, which is crucial in industrial settings where such contaminants are common. This protection helps maintain the functionality and longevity of the switches.

Enhanced Safety

In environments where safety is a concern, IP-rated switches provide a reliable barrier against contaminants that could compromise switch performance. This is particularly important in industrial control environments where consistent switch performance is critical for safety.

Durability in Harsh Conditions

IP-rated switches are built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, making them suitable for use in settings with heavy machinery and potential exposure to chemicals or extreme temperatures.

Redundancy with Additional Sealing

For added protection, IP-rated devices can be used in conjunction with splash-proof boots. This redundancy ensures that even if the switch housing is compromised, the protective boot provides a second layer of defense against contaminants.

These benefits make IP-rated switches a valuable choice for industrial applications, ensuring both the reliability and safety of electrical systems in challenging environments.

What are the differences between SPST and SPDT configurations?

The differences between SPST and SPDT configurations are primarily based on their functionality and terminal connections:

SPST

Functionality: This type of switch is used to make or break the connection of a single conductor in a single branch circuit. It acts like a simple on/off switch.

Terminals: Typically, SPST switches have two terminals.

Applications: They are commonly used in applications where a simple on/off control is needed, such as turning a device on or off.

SPDT

Functionality: SPDT switches can connect a single conductor to one of two other conductors. This allows the switch to direct the current flow between two different paths.

Terminals: SPDT switches often have three terminals.

Applications: They are commonly used in applications where a changeover is needed, such as switching between two different circuits or inputs. They are often used in pairs as three-way switches.

These configurations determine how the switches control electrical circuits and are chosen based on the specific requirements of the application.

DIP Switch Media Gallery

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References

GlobalSpec—IC Analog Switches

GlobalSpec—Rotary Coded DIP Switches

Image credit:

Allied Electronics, Inc. | APEM Components, Inc. | C&K Components | Digi-Key Corporation