FSA-1308 3pin 2 positions on off slide switch customizable for hair straightener

Slide switches are mechanical switches using a slider that moves (slides) from the open (off) position to the closed (on) position. They allow control over current flow in a circuit without having to manually cut or splice wire. This type of switch is best used for controlling current flow in small projects.

There are two common internal designs of slide switches. The most common design uses metal slides that make contact with the flat metal parts on the switch. As the slider is moved it causes the metal slide contacts to slide from one set of metal contacts to the other, actuating the switch. The second design uses a metal seesaw. The slider has a spring that pushes down on one side of the metal seesaw or the other.

Slide switches are maintained-contact switches. Maintained-contact switches stay in one state until actuated into a new state and then remain in that state until acted upon once again.

Depending on the actuator type, the handle is either flush or raised. Choosing a flush or raised switch will depend on the intended application.

• Slide switches may have a variety of features that best fit the desired application.
• Pilot lights are used to indicate whether the circuit is active. This allows operators to tell at a glance if the switch is ON.
• Illuminated switches have an integral lamp to indicate a connection to an energized circuit.
• Wiping contacts are self-cleaning and usually low-resistance. However, wiping creates mechanical wear.
• Time delays allow for the switch to automatically turn a load OFF at a predetermined time interval.