Carling Contura Rocker Switches
*This page was updated on 11/15/2021*
What are rocker switches?
*Due to supplier issues, this product is currently unavailable. We will be updating this page when the availability date changes.*
Rocker switches are electrical switches that have multiple positions for easy activation and deactivation of equipment. They get their name from the fact that they perform a rocking action when being used. That is to say that rocker switches pivot from a central position to a different position in one of two directions. Rocker switches are extremely common in various industries and can be found on just about any larger boat on the water. Rocker switches are known for their ease of installation, long-term durability in harsh environments, and multiple cover options. Speaking of options, rocker switches themselves come in a wide range of body styles.
"Rocker switches are extremely common in various industries and can be found on just about any larger boat on the water."
Where are these products implemented?
Rocker switches are implemented in a wide of applications
Rocker switches are implemented in applications that call for electrical power to be activatable in areas where moisture and exposure are concerns. All our rocker switches are ideal for both new installations as well as when replacing parts. Let's say you have faded rocker switches or damaged rocker switches, then our rocker switches are the perfect replacement. All you will need are the proper tools, terminals, wire jumpers, and possibly wire. Now that we have looked at where rocker switches are implemented, let us take a quick look at how many different styles are availabe.
How many different rocker switch body styles are available?
There are several types of rocker switches that can be broken into two main categories: single pole or double pole. From there, they can be broken down into further categories such as standard position or momentary. This way it is easier to find the rocker switch that you need. All you need to do is determine how many poles you need your switch to have. This will be based solely on the function of the switch itself. Once you have the correct number of poles, you just need to decide whether you want the action to be momentary or continuous. We often receive questions about the different types of rocker switches so let us take a deeper look at them.
*Note: These are not all of the types of switch bodies that we offer.
What is the difference between these rocker switches?
As we said above, the difference between rocker switches starts with whether they are single pole or double pole, but what exactly does that mean? The number of poles indicates the number of circuits that that switch in question can control. So, a single-pole rocker switch can only operate one circuit and a double pole rocker switch can operate two circuits. If you think about it, a double pole switch is almost the same as having two single pole switches. Now you get into whether you want the action to be momentary or not. Momentary means that once you let go of the switch, whatever action it was performing will stop. A great example of this is the horn. When you press the switch, the horn honks. Once you release it, the momentary action stops, and the horn goes quiet. People often wonder what applications are right for rocker switches.
Where would I use rocker switches?
Rocker switches can be used just about anywhere you want to conveniently activate and deactivate electronic equipment. Often times they are found in marine vessels, but they appear in many more places than that. Rocker switches can be found in performance vehicles, heavy machinery, and even aviation equipment. This goes to show just how useful they are.
Marine
Performance
Industrial
Aviation
What kinds of covers are available?
One of the best parts about rocker switches is the massive amount of switch cover options out there. For starters, you can choose from either printed switch covers or engraved switch covers. Each of these styles offers distinctive advantages. Printed switch covers are exactly what they sound like. The text and symbol that identify the switch’s function are printed directly onto the switch cover body itself. To learn more about printed switch covers, click here. Engraved switch covers have the text and symbol burned into the surface of the switch cover body using a high-powered laser. To learn more about laser etched switch covers, click here.
EV2WL-NAVANC
EC1WA-ACC1
ESRA1-HRN
EV-CKPT
ES1BLWA-ACC
Once you know what type of switch cover that you would like, the next step is to choose from several different body styles, body colors, number of lenses, and color of lenses. This way you can get the exact type to match your existing style. The final step is selecting the text and symbol is to printed or engraved on your new switch cover.
What type of protection do rocker switches carry?
Rocker switches offer a rating of IP68 (Ingress Protection 68) which means that they block much of the liquid and solid contaminants that other switches cannot block out. For a comprehensive explanation of what Ingress protection is click here. All you need to know is that rocker switches offer protection against contact with objects greater than 1mm in diameter such as a small wire or tool and offer complete protection against dust over an extended period of time. Additionally, they protect against long periods of immersion in water under pressure. This goes to show just how potent the protection these switches carry really is. IP68 is some of the highest protection that you can get.
Why choose Pacer Group
Pacer Group has been handling rocker switches for years in both distribution and manufacturing capacities. Since we started using them in the harnesses we build, we have a firm understanding of rocker switches, how to use them, and how to select the correct type. Some of the world’s largest boat builders turn to us. With a focus on quality, customer service, and expertise, we have become the name to trust. When you see Pacer Group on your products, you know that you have quality.
