switchesthat

Switchesthat is a term used in electronics and maker communities to describe any arrangement or collection of manual switches designed to control electrical circuits. It is not a formal standard and has no single, widely accepted definition. Instead, switchesthat refers generically to panels, blocks, or assemblies where multiple switches are grouped for convenient operation or compactness.

Construction and types: Switchesthat can include a range of mechanical actuation styles, such as toggle, pushbutton, slide, rocker, or rotary switches. They may be single-pole single-throw or more complex configurations such as SPDT, DPDT, or multi-pole arrays. Designs may be through-hole, surface-mount, or panel-mounted. Some configurations are momentary, others are latching, and some include illumination or status indicators.

Electrical characteristics: Selection hinges on contact ratings (voltage and current), contact types, and environmental ratings. Designers consider contact resistance, bounce, and insulation to ensure reliable operation. Safety and reliability are supported by enclosure design, proper isolation, and adherence to general electrical safety practices appropriate to the application.

Applications: Switchesthat are popular in educational kits, hobbyist projects, and control panels where several control points are required in a compact footprint. They appear in prototyping setups, custom keyboards, instrument panels, and DIY automation assemblies.

See also: Switch, Toggle switch, Push-button switch, DIP switch, Relay, Control panel.