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What are switch covers?
Switch covers are any of a number of devices that are designed to fit over an existing switch body to identify its function or to enhance its appearance. Switch covers are available in a range of shapes and sizes to meet the various needs of different industries. The switch covers in particular that we will be looking at are built for use with Contura rocker switches. These switch covers are known for their large variety of visual indication options and their ease of installation. They are found all throughout the marine industry as well as multiple other industries such as the automotive, off-road vehicle, RV industries and can even be found in industrial equipment.
"As simple as this process sounds, there are a vast range of electrical switches out there, each serving a specified task or having been built for specific applications."
We carry multiple switch cover styles as well as multiple visual identification options so that our customers can find exactly what they are looking for. One question that we frequently get from our customers is about the different types of switch covers that we offer.
Etched Switch Covers
Accessory Switch Covers
Bilge Switch Covers
Misc. Switch Covers
Electronics Switch Covers
Engine Switch Covers
Fuel Switch Covers
Hatch Switch Covers
Light Switch Covers
Pump Switch Covers
Trim Switch Covers
Vent Switch Covers
Wiper Switch Covers
Where are switch covers implemented?
Switch covers make switch identification a simple task
Switch covers are implemented in applications where a switch's function needs to be easily identifiable. They are one of the most common items found on marine vessels. They are ideal when installing new equipment as well as when replacing parts. If you have faded or damaged switch covers then these are exactly what you are looking for. All you will need are the proper switch bodies and the proper switch cover removal tool. Now that we have covered the basics, let us look at what types are available.
What types of switch covers are available?
The switch covers that we offer are available in three main categories, blank, printed, and laser etched switch covers. Each of these types is meant for particular applications but it really boils down to personal preference. Whereas one individual may want their switches to be printed another may want laser etched. Below we will take a look at each of these types of switch covers and just what separates them.
Blank switch covers
Blank covers are exactly what they sound like; blank. These are covers that have not received any form of visual identification whatsoever. You may be wondering; why would I ever want to use a blank switch cover? Well, there are a couple of reasons. Most commonly someone may have installed a new panel with extra switches for future equipment that is yet to be installed. You do not want to leave an open hole in your panel and then you don’t want to leave a faceless switch. So, you add a blank switch cover. This indicates that the switch is not hooked up yet but is instead a placeholder for future enhancement.
Printed switch covers
Printed covers are the kind that most people are familiar with. These are the covers that carry the white or black print with a small symbol and characters of text to identify its function. You have probably seen these on the dashboards of many boats. Printed switch covers are made from the same thermoplastic polycarbonate base with a hard nylon overlay making them ideal for direct long-term sun exposure. With multiple body styles and hundreds of print options, the combinations are in the thousands ensuring that you can get the exact style of printed switch cover that you are looking for.
Laser Etched Switch covers
Laser etched switch covers are the newest of the three to hit the market. These covers are made from a different type of polycarbonate than the other types of covers. It is this durable material that makes them the ideal choice when it comes to laser etching. Laser etching is superior to printed in several ways. First off, it is more durable. After a decade of use, a printed switch cover may begin to fade but an etched switch cover, never. The symbol and text are literally carved into the switch cover body making them the only permanent option on the market. Laser etched switch covers have quickly risen in popularity due to the unbeatable level of quality and clarity that they offer.
How many switch cover body options are available?
When it comes to switch cover body options, there are 14 potential choices. We are adding more in the near future bringing the total up to 34 possible options. This is done in order to offer our customers the widest variety possible so that they can find the exact item that they are looking for. You start by selecting your body style. Once chosen, the next step is to pick the body color. You can choose from black, or white. Next, you would decide on the number of lenses that you want be it one, two, or none. Finally, you would pick the color of the lens. The color options for lenses include red, blue, and white. For now, these options only apply to the blank and printed switch covers.
How do I find the switch cover that is right for my application?
In order to find the right switch cover for your application, you will need to narrow down your search based on the category. So, if you are looking for a new jack plate switch cover, then that would be found under the engine switch cover category. We have separated all our covers based on this logic in order to make them easier to search. So, if you need a fresh water switch cover, then look in the pump switch cover category. As always, if you are having trouble finding the switch cover that is right for your application. Contact a Pacer expert and let us help.
We are boaters. We know how hard it can be to find the part you are looking for and that is why we invested time into making our website as easy to navigate as possible. It all boils down to convenience. We added so many categories of printed switch covers in order to help alleviate some of the frustration that comes from hunting down items.
What body options are laser etched switch covers available in?
Laser etched covers are available in Contura Type V body style. The reason that laser etched switch covers are only available in one body type is that they require a specific material in order for the laser etching to work properly. Just using any switch cover will not work. Our state-of-the-art laser etching system requires the highest quality materials possible. This is how we achieve such a crisp and clear lasting visual presentation. By using only the highest quality materials we are ensuring you the highest quality end result.
What industries use these covers?
Switch covers are utilized by a vast array of industries such as automotive, marine, aviation, industrial equipment, data transmission, power management, and more. This is due to several factors such as hundreds of possible options, low cost, simple installation, and ease replacement. This is why you will find these covers in so many industries and applications on a daily basis.
Why choose Pacer?
Pacer has over forty years in the marine industry and much of that time has been spent creating electrical solutions for our partners. Pacer has earned the reputation as an industry leader and has earned the trust of some of the world’s largest boat builders. We do not sell products, we offer solutions. Every part or piece of equipment that we sell goes through a battery of tests to ensure it meets our high standards. As boaters, we know how important it is to be able to trust a part will do what it is designed to do. Rest assured, when you see Pacer on your products, you know that it means quality.
*This page was updated on 2/08/2023*