A time switch, also known as a digital timer or an electronic timer, is an electronic device that controls the 'on' and 'off' timing of electrical equipment.

The electronic timer switch can be built into an existing power circuit and connected to the mains power, including a relay or a contactor. Alternatively, a plug-in timer switch can be plugged into a wall socket with an appliance and then plugged into the timer or built into the piece of equipment itself.

Time Switches are used for precise timing control in industrial applications, can be programmed and can be used to improve energy efficiency. There are many different ranges and types of Time Switches depending on the requirement.

Types of Time Switch

• Plug-in: Plug-in time switches are available as a digital timer, meaning they often feature a memory that allows the time to be set for a specific time during 24 hours, or for multiple times to be set. Mechanical timers, on the other hand, represent a specific period, such as 15-minute intervals.
• **Lighting Timers: **Timers for both internal and external lights, known as a lighting timer, are ideal when used for home safety or business safety purposes as a deterrent to potential opportunists or burglars. You can programme your timer to switch the lights 'on' and 'off' at a certain hour of the day, giving you complete control and making it look as if you are at home or in the building.
• Many household items are run by time switches, for example, central heating and hot water pre-set to switch 'on' and 'off' at a certain hour each day, or a slow cooker pre-set to cook for a certain number of hours to ensure your dinner is ready for you when you arrive home after a day at work or a day out.
• DIN Rail: DIN rail time switches are controlled by a timer and are ideal for helping to save energy. They only switch on the power when it is needed, such as in irrigation systems, switching lights on in unoccupied buildings and water pumps. They are used a lot in factory settings where automatic machinery needs to be turned on/ off accordingly at specific times, as well as for barrier control and shift-change sirens in manufacturing plants.
• Mechanical & Analogue Time Switches: An analogue time switch is a device used to control the timing of electrical appliances. It has a dial or clock face with adjustable pins or segments that you set to turn the appliance on or off at specific times. This helps automate tasks like turning lights on and off, saving energy and adding convenience to your daily routine.
• Digital Time Switches: A digital time switch is an electronic device used to control the timing of electrical appliances. It features a digital display and buttons for programming specific on and off times. This allows for precise scheduling and often includes additional features like multiple programs, countdown timers, and battery backup. Digital time switches are useful for automating tasks, saving energy, and enhancing convenience.

Browse the broad range of Time Switches RS has to offer and order today for next-day delivery. Our high-quality Time Switches are brought to you from industry-leading brands including Muller Grasslin Timeguard Legrand Theben and our brand RS PRO