Rotary Switches

Rotary switches are switches that moves in a circle and can stop in a few positions they are used to connect a functional circuit within a device to a source of electricity. Rotary switches are used to control many different circuits within a single switch. The electrical charge enters the switch and is then directed to whichever circuit is currently selected by the switch. Rotary switches provide a robust mechanical control system.

At RS, we offer an extensive range of rotary switches from leading brands such as Alps Alpine, Lorlin, and Elma, as well as our own trusted RS PRO range. Our selection includes multiple configurations, sizes, and mounting options to suit diverse applications. With RS, you benefit from Next Day Delivery and reliable service to keep your projects on track.

Types of Rotary Switches

Rotary switches come in several types, each designed for specific applications:

• Rotary Wafer Switches – Commonly used in multi-position circuits for selecting different electrical paths.
• Rotary Cam Switches – Ideal for industrial control panels, allowing manual adjustment of machine functions.
• Miniature Rotary Switches – Compact design for space-limited applications such as instrumentation.
• PCB Mount Rotary Switches – Designed for direct mounting on printed circuit boards, often used in electronic devices.
• Rotary DIP Switches – Used for setting configurations in electronic circuits, such as address selection in communication systems.

Rotary Switch Applications

Rotary switches are versatile and widely used across industries. Key applications include:

• Industrial Control – Adjusting machine speed or conveyor belt settings.
• Lighting – Rotary light switches, commonly used in dimmer controls.
• Automotive – Dashboards for selecting functions like air conditioning or fan speed.
• Audio Control – Professional audio splitters and converters for switching between speakers or channels.
• Test & Measurement – Voltmeters and diagnostic equipment for selecting ranges or modes.
• Aerospace & Instrumentation – Aircraft control panels and precision instruments requiring multi-position control.

You can find more information in our Rotary Switches guide