Have you ever turned on a flashlight or switched on a lamp that stays that way until you press the same button? This is highly likely a latching push button switch working and these switches are found everywhere in simpler appliances like fans, cars, lights, toys, etc. They make life seamless and assist you in performing various tasks without hassle. So, let us delve deeper into what they are, how they function, and also how you can choose the right switch according to your needs and requirements.

1) What is a Latching Push Button Switch?

A latching push button switch is a type of switch that after being pressed once retains the last set position. For instance, if you set a switch in the ‘ON’ position it will then retain that setting until you pull it back.

Key features

Some of the points that you should remember regarding Latching Push Button Switch:

• Lighting Choices: Some latching switches are illuminated, which means they illuminate when turned on, thus providing a status indication.

• Durable materials: They are usually constructed from heavy-duty metal or tough plastics for enhanced durability.

• Multiple Configurations: Available in different shapes, dimensions, and designs so as to be tailored for unique needs.

2) How Does a Latching Push Button Switch Work?

The latching putton button working mechanism is not that complex, here is a quick forward guide;

Step#1) Press the Button

• When you literally push the button, it aids in completing the electrical circuit which gets the power to your device.

Step#2) Latch Locks It:

• After pressing this switch it gets locked. This indicates that the device will remain ‘ON’ and it will not be necessary to hold the button.

Step#3) Press Again to Turn Off

• Finally, if you press the button to turn the device off, the latch unlocks and so the circuit is opened. This results in switching the device off.

3) Advantages of Latching Push Button Switches

Latching push button switches are beneficial in many ways and therefore are quite handy in many devices. Let’s break down their key benefits!

+ Ease to use: They are also simple to use, as you just have to press the button once to activate the device. Then, if you want to turn it OFF, then again just press the button.

+ Saves energy: They are highly energy efficient as they consume energy once they are pushed for activation of the device, thus reducing overall energy usage.

+ Durability: They have resistance to thousands of pushes. This is why they are quite durable in the places and products they are used in ranging from machines to household appliances.

+ Wide Range of Usability: You can find these types of switches across a wide range of products which includes lamps, toys and Jeep cars.

4) Applications of Latching Push Button Switches

Latching push button switches are used in many different places.. So let’s see some relevant examples:

? Lights: Latching push button switches can be found in lamps or even ceiling lights. As,  by pressing it, the lamp will turn on, and turning it off requires again pressing.

? Cars: Certain uses of these switches include turning on the headlights and the car itself using a single button all with the push of a button.

? Toys and Gadgets: Nowadays, even remote-controlled toys have started using these switches.

? Industrial Machines: These are also used in factories or workshops to operate even big machines.

5) Types of Latching Push Button Switches

Latching push button switches do come in various types and each type works as per its specifications. Here, I will describe the common types that you may encounter:

i) Single Pole Single Throw (SPST)

This is the most basic version of a latching switch. It simply consists of a single ON or an OFF circuit. When pressed once, it closes the circuit and causes the device to power up. When pressed again, it opens the circuit thereby switching the device off.

Our Cdoe Single Pole Single Throw push button switches are CE, CC, and IP65 certified, making them a perfect choice even for harsh conditions. Whether you need a latching or momentary option, both are available in our series. Our switches are 12 mm in size and are manufactured in Red Green Blue Yellow White Orange color head colors to fit every need. Our switches are rated under 3A/250 V and custom symbol headers are also an option.

ii) Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT)

This type lets you have one pole (input) and two throws (output). It lets you choose between two options. For example, let’s say we have 2 light bulbs. When the button is at rest, Light bulb 1 is on. When you press the button, light bulb 2 will turn on and bulb 1 off. When you press it again, Light Bulb 1 will turn on and bulb 2 will turn off – the cycle goes on. There is no off switch.

Our Cdoe switches have NO/NC single contacts which allow them for freely selectable combinations and with built-in multi-color lights, you can be sure which connections are on. They have a current rating of 10A/660V and with certifications like UL, CE, & CC, these are best fitted for industrial-grade applications.  Our Single Pole Double Throw series comes in 22 mm size but others can also be customizable.

iii) Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT)

As the name suggests, it has two inputs and two outputs which means that two functions can be controlled by a single switch at any given time. Press the button and both circuits toggle at the same time. This is helpful when you want to change the polarity of something like a motor ( reverse its direction ).

Our Cdoe DPDT push button switch has 1NO1NC 2NO2NC terminals, making it able to do complex tasks like reverse motor direction, switch between power sources, control different devices, etc. With safety in mind, our switches have the highest level of certifications UL, Reach, CE, CCC, TUV, and Rohs. Besides that, you get IP67 protection so no worry about accidental sparks due to spillage & humidity.

iv) Illuminated and non-illuminated

Some latching push button switches feature built-in lights known as illuminated switches. These make it easy to tell if a device is running as it glows when the switch is on. Non-illuminated switches do not have lights at all, they rather indicate the machine’s on/off status depending on the location of the switch.

Summary table

6) How to choose the right latching push button switch?

• Understand your requirements: The first thing to consider is what the switch needs to do. For example, for the switch that just turns a device on or off, select an SPST switch (Single Pole Single Throw). If you want to change between several options, for example, different fan speeds or light modes, go for an SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw).

• Verify the dimensions and mounting Orientation: After that verify the dimensions of the switch and whether the mounting orientation is of your preference.

• Assess the requirement of a switch for illumination: An illuminated switch means the light will turn on after the switch is turned on. This is quite useful when in dark spaces or when feedback is necessary.

• Assess durability: For external or extreme use, getting a switch made of materials able to bear exposure to dirt, moisture, and abrasion is recommended, while for indoor use, any regular switch does the work effectively.

• Ensure Compatibility of Voltage and Amp Levels: In the end, ensure that you’ve checked the amp and voltage ratings of the switch so that it is focussed on or above the power parameters of the device you wish to use.

7) FAQ

i) What is the lifespan of a latching push button switch?

The lifespan of latching push button switches may vary depending on their usage environment or their quality. However, they are very durable and typically range between millions of cycles. Proper usage combined with appropriate service can increase the expected lifespan of such switches.

ii) How to maintain a latching push button switch?

To protect your switch, it is important to consider the following points:

• Keep it free from dust and grime.

• Watch out for any loose ends and make sure everything is nice and tight.

• If performance drops, consider replacing it.

iii) Are latching push button switches suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, some latching push button switches are suitable for outdoor usage. For outdoor applications search for switches that are labeled as weatherproof or waterproof. To buy such outdoor latching push button switches you can contact CDOE, China’s best push button switches manufacturer.

8) Conclusion

Hopefully, now you know all the points related to latching push button switches! These devices help to control the electrical circuit in a simpler way, and there are many other types of them too addressing different purposes. You might want to switch on a lamp, run a fan or switch a machine a latching switch will simply work for you. Just take care to select the right one for your application.

For getting highly reliable latching push button switches, you can consider CDOE China manufacturer. They have 21 years of experience in the production line of push buttons and all of them are also ISO 9001 and UL certified.