84218 Series, Thumbwheel Switches

Thumbwheel switches are a type of device that facilitates its function through the use of a rotary disk. This disk is designed to have variations in its output code, which can include BCD (Binary Coded Decimal), decimal, hexadecimal, octal, resistor decade, or SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw). One important aspect of thumbwheel switches is the actuator type. There are several options available, including leverwheel, pushwheel, rocker, or the classic thumbwheel design. These different actuator types allow for various ways of interacting with and manipulating the switch. Thumbwheel switches also have other distinguishing characteristics that contribute to their versatility and usability. These characteristics include the readout method, number of sections, display characters and height, actuator type, contact rating, and mounting type. The readout method refers to how the output code variations are displayed. This can be through digital readouts, LED displays, or other visual indicators. The number of sections indicates the number of individual wheels or disks present in the switch, each representing a specific digit or value. Display characters and height refer to the symbols or numbers that are displayed on the thumbwheel switch and the physical size of these characters. This is important for readability and user convenience. The actuator type, as mentioned earlier, determines the physical mechanism used to interact with the switch. This can range from a lever-like handle to a thumbwheel that can be rotated manually. Contact rating is another significant characteristic. It specifies the maximum current and voltage levels that the switch's contacts can handle without malfunctioning or being damaged. Lastly, the mounting type defines how the thumbwheel switch is secured or attached, whether it is through panel mounting, PCB (Printed Circuit Board) mounting, or other methods. In summary, thumbwheel switches are rotary devices that offer various output code variations. They come with different actuator types, such as leverwheel, pushwheel, rocker, or thumbwheel, and possess additional characteristics like readout method, number of sections, display characters/height, actuator type, contact rating, and mounting type. These features allow for flexibility and adaptability in different applications that require precise selection and input of values.