3Position
3position refers to a control or switch that has three distinct states or positions, allowing a user to select between three settings, modes, or connections. It is a generic term used across electronics, equipment, and mechanical systems to describe tri-state controls, rather than a specific standardized part.
- Three-position toggle switches: these switches typically provide three detents, such as on-off-on or center-off configurations. In
- Three-position slide switches: a slider with three stable detents that correspond to three circuit conditions, often
- Three-position rotary switches: a dial with three positions chosen by turning a knob to set different
- Tri-state pushbutton or cycling controls: pushbuttons or similar mechanisms that move through three states, which may
Electrical and mechanical considerations
- Contacts and wiring: 3position devices are commonly implemented as SPDT, DPDT, or similar configurations to realize
- Ratings: current, voltage, and withstand characteristics vary by design and application; selection should match the intended
- Durability: detent feel, mechanical life, and resistance to dust or moisture may influence suitability for a
- Center-off and detents: many designs include a true center-off position for neutral operation, while others offer
- Mode and source selection in audio, video, and instrumentation equipment.
- Speed or function selection in power tools and appliances.
- Controller inputs in industrial and automotive contexts, and in guitar hardware for selecting pickups or circuits.
See also: toggle switch, slide switch, rotary switch, guitar pickup selector.