What Is a DIP Switch?
DIP is short for Dual In-line Package. A DIP switch is designed to be mounted on printed circuit boards and is commonly used to customize the behavior of an electronic device for specific situations.
How Do They Work?
DIP switch refers to a set of electrical switches packaged in a small box or housing, which are arranged in a line or circle (rotary DIP). The function is to provide a range of electrical inputs to an electronic device based on the position of the individual switches within the line or circle.
Pros & Cons
DIP switches are an alternative to jumper blocks. Their main advantages are the ability to quickly change positions and the fact there are no parts to lose. Dip switches are simple, flexible and low cost
In recent times, DIP switches have lessened in popularity due to the rise of easily customizable software configurations.
However, they are still used for a variety of functions, especially within industrial equipment. They provide an inexpensive solution for circuit design, with the convenience of checking their configurations without the system being turned on.
DIP switches are also used in devices to prevent interference since they set a different radio frequency or address for each transmitter/receiver pair, so multiple units can be installed without unintentionally controlling each other.
Common Uses
Some common uses for the DIP switch include:
- PC Expansion Cards
- Industrial equpment
- Motherboards
- Arcade Game Machines
- Garage Door Openers
- Remote Controls
E-Switch offers many DIP switches, including the KAG Series, KAC Series, KAE Series, KAD Series, KAN Series, KAP Series and KAS Series.