Switches Uncategorized

Differences Between a Rotary Switch and a Regulator

Rotary switches

Introduction –

When it comes to controlling and regulating electronic devices, two key components that play a significant role are rotary switches and regulators. Both of these devices serve different functions but are important for the smooth operation of any electronic system. In this article, we will be exploring the key differences between rotary switches and regulators and their specific applications.

Rotary switches

Rotary switches are multi-functional electromechanical devices which, as the name suggests, rotate clockwise or counter-clockwise to control the connected equipment. They are the human machine interface component and are generally referred to as single poles and double poles. Poles and throws are the major configurations of the air cooler rotary switch. These poles are related to the number of circuits that are being controlled by the switch. And the throw defines the number of positions that the air cooler rotary switches poles can be connected to. 

Using them in aircooler is one of the important uses of these rotary switches and a rotary switch for the cooler is a great alternative to a push-button switch. They are operated by rotation as the name suggests by which we can change the speed of the air cooler.. The rotary cooler switch can be moved to the next position using a rotating mechanism inside which allows the cap to rotate either clockwise or anti-clockwise. They are generally used when a device needs more than a two-position control switch thus perfect for coolers. Another example for the use case of rotary switch can be a CB radio with numerous frequencies of reception required or several radio channels. 

So how do these rotary switches actually work? The fundamental design pattern of a rotary switch will consist of a spindle or rotor with a protruding spoke.  The spoke changes its position when the spindle is moved. It contacts the electrical terminal and these electrical terminals activates the associated circuits or changes the electrical states in the circuit when the user uses the switch. The air cooler rotary switch terminal is usually located around the spindle at specific rotational intervals. 30, 45, 60, and 90 degrees determine the number of switch positions available. 

Several applications of the cooler rotary switches can be found in industrial, medical, construction, and military communication devices. Rotary switches are extensively used to adjust the speed of conveyor belts, change the frequency of oscilloscopes, and control diagnostic medical devices. Rotary light switches, rotary lamp switches, and dimmers are some of the well-known applications of rotary switches apart from the most used in India which is for air coolers. 

Regulators

What is a regulator? A regulator is composed of resistors that help in controlling the voltage as well as decreasing and increasing as per the requirement of the user. For the power supply to provide a constant output voltage, without taking the input voltage variation or load current variation into consideration, there is a need for a regulator and this is its main use. 

Now, lets take the example of air cooler. With a regulator device, you can control the air cooler speed as it helps in to accelerate or reduce the electrical current. On top of that, with the help of 3 phase coil, slow, medium, and high speeds can be achieved in the circuit. The regulator saves electricity by minimizing the speed but loses it by being heated when voltage is decreased. 

Regulators are extensively used in all power supply systems to regulate voltage and save the device from serious damage. Thus, it is an very important part of the circuit. It is also used in electronic circuits to deliver a precise amount of voltage to the device.

The ISO 9001 certified smart electronics and electromechanical components manufacturer  Elcom International has been serving global customers since 1981. Our well-equipped manufacturing facilities enable us to create high-quality electronics and electromechanical products with unique designs. 

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