What Is a Rotary DIP Switch?
Rotary DIP switches are a specific type of DIP switch, which also includes push switches and slide switches. The term “DIP switch” comes from the dual in-line package (DIP) format, which was initially used in the production of many integrated circuits (ICs).
Uses of Rotary DIP Switches
These switches are typically mounted on printed circuit boards. Once set, their ON/OFF positions, or in the case of rotary switches, their setting positions, remain fixed. This feature allows for the easy identification of system or board states through the switch settings.
Rotary DIP switches can represent a number from 0 to F (15). By using two such switches, it is possible to express 256 different numerical values from 0 to FF (255), allowing for the identification of a wide range of systems or boards.
Principle of Rotary DIP Switches
DIP switches consisting of multiple slide switches enable the identification of system or board status by setting each switch to ON or OFF. A package typically contains 2, 4, or 8 switches. With 2 switches, you can express 2 bits of information (numerical values from 0 to 3); with 4 switches, values from 0 to 15; and with 8 switches, values from 0 to 255.
Rotary DIP switches, due to their design, allow for setting multiple switch positions simultaneously by simply rotating a knob to a specific position. They are generally more user-friendly than slide-switch-type DIP switches.
Typically, the settings of DIP switches are read by a system controller, such as a microcontroller, which then controls the system based on these settings. These switches are non-volatile, meaning their state remains unchanged once set. Previously, due to the high cost of NVRAM (Non-volatile memory), DIP switches were widely used, but with the decrease in NVRAM prices, they are increasingly being replaced.
How to Use Rotary DIP Switches
Rotary DIP switches are unique among DIP switches in their operation. Rotating the switch turns it on and off, and changes circuits. They are often used in digital circuit setups and are usually left in a set position once configured.
There are various types of rotary DIP switches, including those with flat or shaft-shaped actuators. Some can be operated with a finger, while others require a tool like a screwdriver. They come in two contact types: shorting and non-shorting. The shorting type makes a temporary electrical connection between two contacts, whereas the non-shorting type momentarily disconnects from either contact during switching.
About Thumb Rotary Switches
Thumb rotary switches are a subtype of rotary switches, characterized by a disc-shaped part with numbers for easy visual identification. They consist of components like a case, pushbutton, rotor, and printed circuit board, and are used similarly to other rotary switches.