Push Button Switch

A pushbutton switch is a manually actuated switching device which employs a button or similar structure which is depressed to select among successive switch positions. Conventional pushbutton switches are provided with a dielectric housing in which pins are mounted. A spring-biased actuator is movably mounted in the housing and it carries contact members thereon for electrical engagement with the pins to perform switching functions. A pushbutton switch having more than one switch position is known as a multistep switch. A low profile pushbutton switch is one that has a minimal side profile to save space in the vertical dimension. Illuminated-type pushbutton switches is designed to enable an operator to easily recognize such an indication symbol and to provide input for an apparatus with reliability during the night or in dark places.

Pushbutton switches are employed in many types of electronic equipment, including keyboards for typewriters, computers, and other similar devices. Multiple pushbutton switches have been used in great numbers as appliance switches in electric ranges so as to control the circuitry thereof. Two position pushbutton switches are used in many applications, including the window lockout switches used in an automobile.