DIP Switches

What is a DIP Switch?

DIP is short for ‘Dual-in-line package’. A DIP switch is a small set of switches packaged in a Dual-in-line package (DIP). A DIP switch is designed to be used on a printed circuit board (PCB) with the role of customising the behaviour of a device. This is done by controlling the flow of electricity around the PCB. This can therefore be utilised to change the operating mode or function of an electronic device. Our DIP switches are PCB surface or through hole-mounted, with both vertical and right-angle options available.

DIP Switches are a manual electric switch that is packaged with others in a group in a standard dual-in-line package. The term may refer to each individual switch, or to the entire unit.

How do I use a DIP Switch?

The DIP switch has an arrangement of contact pins underneath which can plug onto the breadboard or printed circuit board. This is then allocated into two parallel rows. A standard DIP switch can include 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 16+ individual switches mounted on to 1 single small block. These switches can then be used to control separate variables on a device. The toggle types (Piano) are available with a variety of pole and throw configurations, such as:

• SPST (Single-pole, single-throw) switch has only got one output and one input.
• SPDT (Single-pole, double-throw) switches have three terminals, one common pin and two pins which contend for connection to the common. Most suited to devices selecting between two power sources.
• DPDT (Double-pole, double-throw) switches are essentially two SPDT switches that control two separate circuits and are switched together by one single actuator.

What are the benefits of DIP Switches?

The main benefits of DIP switches are they are simple to function and are cost-effective. Making them a cheaper alternative to software control panels and jumper blocks. A standard DIP switch can include 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 16+ switches mounted on 1 single small block.

Types of DIP switches

There are many different types of DIP switches, these include;

Piano Type

Slide Type

IC Type

SMD Type

Right Angle Type

Rotary Dip switches

A dip switch with a circular motion instead of a toggle going back and forth. They can rotate through 360 degrees or alternatively can be preset to stop at certain positions. This type is perfect for PCB boards with limited space.

Typical Applications

Although fewer DIP switches are used within the consumer electronics market these days, they currently thrive in a wide range of industrial sectors. This is due to their low cost and simplicity to implement within circuits.

Other applications include:

• • PC hardware (modems and hard drives)
  • Door opening mechanisms
  • Multi-device remote controls
  • Stage lighting control

How to place an order?

There are many ways to place an order and enquire about our DIP Switches.

We operate Monday – Thursday 8 am – 5 pm and Fridays 8 am – 4.30 pm, call us on +44 (0)1234 213600 to speak to our Sales Engineers or e-mail us on [email protected] alternatively, leave us a message using our online contact form.

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