1 Pole 7 Way Rotary Switch Plastic

The spindle

In a rotary switch, the current passes via a spinning spindle that contains numerous distinct rotors. When the switch is in a given position, an arm protruding outward from each rotor will make contact with a terminal. A switch can have dozens of positions, each of which is generally associated with a distinct circuit.

Controlling the Switch

It is just necessary for the rotary switch to be in the precise position for it to appear on a certain circuit. A rotor that rotated too freely would be difficult to control and might easily be switched off or tossed to the wrong position. To prevent this, rotary switches feature a detent mechanism that causes the switch to “click” into place and stay in that position until it is turned with adequate effort. A detent is a wheel that is mounted to the rotor and has notches or grooves. A needle bearing with a spring or a sliver of spring steel is pressed against the wheel. Rotary switches, as a result of these characteristics, can give larger pole and throw capabilities than basic switches.