Help Center  
Sending a message
Open Hours:9:00-21:00 (GMT+8)
Service hotlines

9:00 -18:00, Mon. - Fri. (GMT+8)

9:00 -12:00, Sat. (GMT+8)

(Except Chinese public holidays)

X

PCB Switch: A Comprehensive Guide

499

In almost every electronic device, PCB switches play a crucial role. A PCB switch enables users to easily turn circuits on or off, change settings, or activate special functions. From simple gadgets to advanced computers, you can see circuit board switches being used for control and selection. There are many different types of PCB switches on the market, such as PCB tactile switches, PCB slide switches and PCB toggle switches. Each type of circuit board switch has its unique characteristics.

 

Next, in this article, we will introduce the most common types of circuit board switches. We will explain how they work and teach you how to design and integrate the appropriate PCB switches. Let's first understand what a PCB switch is.

 

What is a PCB Switch?

 

PCB switch


A PCB switch is an electronic switch component specifically installed on a printed circuit board. Its function is to control the current by pressing, pulling or sliding to connect or disconnect the circuit. That is to say, the PCB switch enables users to directly control the on/off, mode switching, reset and other functions of the device.

 

PCB switches are also called circuit board switches or circuit board buttons. This type of component is almost applied to all electronic products, such as remote controls, computer keyboards, audio equipment, industrial automation, household appliances, etc. These switches enable users to interact conveniently with various electronic devices.

 

Different PCB switches also vary in structure and performance. Some are designed to be very compact and suitable for portable devices, such as the small circuit board button. Some, such as PCB power switch, can withstand larger currents and are suitable for high-power applications. Most PCB switches support multiple assembly methods such as through-hole or surface mount (SMD), facilitating different PCB process requirements.

 

At present, there are various PCB switch types on the market, which can meet different circuit requirements. Common types include PCB tactile switch, PCB push button switch, PCB slide switch, and PCB toggle switch, etc. Choosing the right PCB switch is crucial for the stability, user experience and durability of electronic products. Below, we will introduce in detail several common types of PCB switches.

 

PCB services from PCBasic


PCB Switch Types

 

In circuit board design, there are many different types of PCB switches. Each circuit board switch has specific functions, feel and installation methods.

 

PCB Tactile Switch

 

PCB Tactile Switch


PCB tactile switch is a small, instantaneous circuit board switch that gives a crisp "click" sensation when pressed. It uses metal spring pieces inside to achieve circuit connection. The operation of this PCB switch is simple and reliable, and it is widely used in situations where obvious user feedback is required, such as keyboards, remote controls and handheld devices. They have two installation methods: surface mount and plug-in, and can be adapted to different PCB switch designs.

 

Main features

 

Small in size and ultra-thin design

Obvious tactile feedback

Instantaneous action (disconnection upon release)

Multiple installation methods are available

 

Application scenarios

 

The buttons on the calculator and the remote control

Control buttons on smart devices

The reset switch on the development board

 

Push Button Switch

 

Push Button Switch


Push button switch is a common type of circuit board switch. Its structure is simple. Pressing it will connect the circuit, and releasing it will disconnect (or keep it connected, depending on the type). This type of switch can be either instantaneous or self-locking. The operation of push button switches is very intuitive and the key area is relatively large. It is highly suitable for use as a power switch, function switching or reset control device for equipment.

 

Push button switch usually has two installation methods: through-hole and SMD, which is convenient for adapting to various PCB switch design requirements. The key feel is solid, and users can clearly perceive whether the operation is effective. The rich selection of shapes and colors also makes it convenient to distinguish different functions on the panel or PCB.

 

Main features

 

The structure is simple and the key area is large

Supports two action modes: instantaneous and self-locking

The touch is clear and the operation is convenient

High durability, suitable for high-frequency operations

 

Application scenarios

 

Power or reset buttons for devices such as calculators and remote controls

The start and stop buttons on the industrial control panel

Function switching keys for household appliances and medical instruments

User input buttons on the development board and test equipment

 

PCB Slide Switch

 

PCB Slide Switch


PCB slide switch is a circuit board switch that switches the circuit state by sliding the lever. Users only need to push the lever to switch between different switch positions to achieve the connection or disconnection of the circuit. The PCB slide switch is suitable for simple controls such as single-throw (SPST) and double-throw (SPDT), and can also be used for complex switching with multiple gears and multiple loops. PCB slide switches usually offer two installation methods: through-hole and SMD. Its sliding feel is smooth, and the position of the lever is clear, making it convenient for users to intuitively identify the current switch status.

 

Main features

 

The structure is simple, with sliding operation and distinct gears

Supports multiple pole numbers and gears (such as SPST, SPDT, DPDT, etc.)

The position is clear and easy to identify the current state

High reliability and suitable for high-frequency switching

 

Application scenarios

 

Selection of function modes for electronic toys and radios

Signal switching for industrial control and communication equipment

Switch Settings for smart home devices and portable devices


PCB DIP Switch


PCB DIP Switch


PCB DIP switch is a circuit board switch composed of multiple micro toggle switches. It usually appears in the form of a dual-in-line package (DIP). Each of its small switches can be independently toggle, and when used in combination, it can achieve various circuit configurations. Users can change the working status or configuration of the circuit board by manually towing each switch without the need for software operation.

 

PCB DIP switches are generally installed by through-hole method, and there are also some surface mount (SMD) products. It has a compact structure, occupies a small space, is easy to operate and has high reliability. Each small switch has a clear ON/OFF (ON/OFF) status indicator, which is convenient for users to identify and set.

 

Main features

 

Multiple micro-switches are integrated into one, facilitating batch settings

Supports multiple combinations and flexible configuration of circuit parameters

The operation is simple and the on/off status is intuitive

Compact structure, suitable for high-density PCB layout

 

Application scenarios

 

The address or function selection of communication equipment and network equipment

Parameter Settings of industrial automation equipment

Selection of working modes for intelligent controllers and development boards

 

PCB Toggle Switch


PCB Toggle Switch


PCB toggle switch is a circuit board switch that switches the state of a circuit by toggling the handle. Users only need to pull the switch handle up and down or left and right to switch between different positions and achieve the connection or disconnection of the circuit. This switch is available in both instantaneous type (automatically resets after being pulled) and self-locking type (remains in the same state after being pulled). The structure is sturdy and the operation feel is clear. It is usually installed in a through-hole manner and is suitable for PCB switch designs that require high reliability in industries, communications, etc.

 

Main features

 

The lever structure ensures clear switching and distinct gear positions

Supports multiple pole numbers and gears (such as SPST, SPDT, DPDT, etc.)

There are two action modes: instantaneous and self-locking

Long-life design, suitable for frequent operation

 

Application scenarios

 

Function switching of the industrial control panel

Mode switching of communication equipment and instruments

Key parts such as power switches and main control switches

Manual control of various development boards and testing equipment

 

PCB Rotary Switch

 

PCB Rotary Switch


PCB rotary switch is a circuit board switch that achieves multi-gear switching through rotation operation. Users only need to rotate the knob of the switch to switch between multiple contacts or channels. This type of switch usually has multiple positions and pole numbers to choose from, and can be flexibly configured according to actual needs. PCB rotary switches are usually installed in a through-hole manner, and there are also some surface mount (SMD) products suitable for various PCB switch designs. Its rotation feels smooth, the gear position is accurate, it is highly durable and can maintain stable performance for a long time.

 

Main features

 

The knob can be rotated for switching, with multiple positions to choose from

Supports multi-pole and multi-position configuration, with flexible functions

The gears are clear and the rotation feels good

Stable and reliable, suitable for high-frequency switching requirements

 

Application scenarios

 

Input/output selection and volume adjustment of audio equipment

The function mode switching of the instrument and meter

Multi-channel signal selection for industrial equipment

Channel or parameter Settings for communication and test equipment

 

A Summary Table

 

Switch Type

Operation Method

Feedback Type

Action Style

Typical Application

Mounting Style

PCB tactile switch

Press

Tactile (click)

Momentary

Keypads, remote controls

SMD / Through-hole

Push Button Switch

Press

Soft or firm

Momentary/Latching

Power/reset, control panels

SMD / Through-hole

PCB slide switch

Slide (side-to-side)

Position change

Latching

Mode selection, small devices

SMD / Through-hole

PCB DIP switch

Flip lever (by finger)

None/visual ON/OFF

Latching

Config settings, address setting

Through-hole / SMD

PCB toggle switch

Flip lever (up/down)

Firm lever feel

Momentary/Latching

Power, industrial control

Through-hole

PCB rotary switch

Rotate knob

Click/stop by detent

Latching (multi)

Function or channel selection

Through-hole / SMD

 

Working Principle of PCB Switches

 

All PCB switches are controlled by connecting or disconnecting circuits. When you press, pull or rotate the switch, the contacts inside the switch will move. This change determines whether the current flows or is blocked.

 

Mechanical operation is the most common method. Most circuit board switches have metal contacts. When the PCB tactile switch or PCB push button switch is pressed, the metal contacts will come into contact with each other or separate, thereby achieving the connection or disconnection of the circuit.

 

metal contacts



Another way is electrical operation. Some switches (such as PCB power switch) use electronic components or semiconductor devices for switching. This type of switch can be controlled to be on and off through electrical signals and is suitable for circuits with special requirements.


There are mainly two ways for switches to operate:

 

Momentary: The circuit is only connected when you press the switch. After releasing the hand, the switch automatically returns to the initial state and the circuit is disconnected. Most PCB tactile switches fall into this category.

 

Latching: After the switch is switched once, the circuit will remain in the current state. Only by operating the switch again will the state change. PCB toggle switch and PCB slide switch are commonly seen in this structure.

 

No matter what type it is, PCB switch enables users to conveniently control the on and off of circuits, thereby achieving various functional switches and mode selections.

 

PCB design and assembly services from PCBasic


How to Design and Integrate a PCB Switch


To design and integrate a PCB switch on a circuit board, simply follow these steps:

 

1. Clarify the switch requirements.

 

First of all, we need to determine what functions the PCB switch is to achieve. For instance, is it necessary to switch between multiple gears? If necessary, the PCB rotary switch can be chosen. Because only by determining the specific application scenarios can the most suitable PCB switch type be selected.

 

2. Select and download the correct packaging and symbols.

 

Visit the official website of the switch manufacturer and download the schematic library symbols and PCB package (footprint) corresponding to the selected circuit board switch. This can ensure that the component size and the pads are exactly matched.


3. Make a reasonable layout and plan the routing.

 

In the PCB layout, place the PCB mount switch in a position that is easy for users to operate. Then, arrange the direction of the copper wires related to the switch reasonably. The connection distance should be shortened as much as possible to reduce interference and impedance.

 

4. Add openings or installation holes (if necessary).

 

For switch types that require panel operation or firm installation, such as PCB power switch, appropriate openings or screw holes should be reserved in the PCB design so that the switch can be firmly installed.

 

5. Check the electrical connections and clearances.

 

After completing the component layout, check whether all the switch pins are correctly connected to the circuit to ensure there is no short circuit. It is also necessary to confirm that there is sufficient space around the PCB switches to facilitate subsequent operations and maintenance.



6. Prepare for assembly and testing.

 

After the PCB production is completed, functional tests are conducted on all circuit board buttons to ensure that each PCB switch is firm, reliable and working properly.

 

By following the above six steps, you can integrate various PCB switches on the circuit board efficiently and reliably.

 

Conclusion


PCB switches are indispensable core components in electronic design. A thorough understanding of various types of PCB switches helps us select the most suitable circuit board switches for different applications. During the design and integration process, choosing high-quality PCB switches and following standardized installation and layout principles can effectively enhance the stability and reliability of the product. I believe that after reading this article, you must have a deeper understanding of PCB switch!



About PCBasic



Time is money in your projects – and PCBasic gets it. PCBasic is a PCB assembly company that delivers fast, flawless results every time. Our comprehensive PCB assembly services include expert engineering support at every step, ensuring top quality in every board. As a leading PCB assembly manufacturer, we provide a one-stop solution that streamlines your supply chain. Partner with our advanced PCB prototype factory for quick turnarounds and superior results you can trust.

About Author

Emily Johnson

Charles possesses a deep professional background in PCBA manufacturing, testing, and optimization, excelling in fault analysis and reliability testing and proficient in complex circuit design and manufacturing processes. His technical articles on PCBA manufacturing and testing are widely cited within the industry, establishing him as a technical authority in circuit board manufacturing.

Assemble 20 PCBs for $0

Assembly Enquiry

Upload File

Instant Quote

Upload File

E-mail

Quote