Push Button Switches

Push button switches, also known as push switches, are one of the most common types of electrical switches used in the New Zealand market today. These versatile components are used in a wide range of applications, from everyday household appliances to industrial machinery.

With their straightforward operation and robust construction, push buttons are a popular choice for controlling electrical devices, activating alarms, and initiating various control sequences.

Here at RS, we offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality illuminated and non-illuminated push buttons in a range of shapes, sizes, and colours. Whether you are designing a new project or simply maintaining an existing installation, we are confident we have the right push button switch for you.

How do Push Button Switches Work?

A push button has two main components: the button itself and the internal switching mechanism. Pushing the button forces the plunger to move, which in turn engages or disengages the internal contacts, thereby completing or breaking the electrical circuit.

Types of Push Button Switches

Push button switches come in a variety of types, each with unique characteristics and features. Some of the most common include the following.

Momentary Push Button Switch

Momentary push buttons, also known as spring return buttons in New Zealand, are a type of switch that requires continuous compression. They turn on when the user applies a force (usually their finger) to the switch button and will only stay on while the switch button is compressed. Once the force is removed, momentary switches spring back and return to their original off position.

Momentary switches will ALWAYS have brackets around the momentary position to help with identification, such as (On)-Off-(On), On-(Off).

Latching Push Button Switch

Latching push buttons, also known as maintained or stay-put push buttons, are a type of switch that does not require continuous compression. They will turn on when the user applies a force (usually their finger) to the switch button and will remain in the on position. It is only until the user compresses the switch button again that the switch will unlatch and return to its original off position.

Illuminated Push Button Switch

Illuminated push buttons incorporate a light source, typically an LED, that lights up when the button is pressed. Illuminated switches are often used in low-light or dark environments and are ideal for applications where a visual indication of the switch's status is required.

Applications of Push Button Switches

Push button switches are widely used in various household and industrial application scenarios in New Zealand:

• Activating Devices: Specialised push button switches are commonly located on or near industrial machinery, allowing operators to start or stop operations in emergencies and activate alarms. Conversely, miniature or micro push button switches from brands like C&K are used to reset small electronic devices. When used with a spring-loaded toggle latch, push buttons prevent accidental door opening.
• Control Sequences: Push-to-break push button switches, or normally closed (NC) switches, are the most commonly used type of button switch and function oppositely to latching and momentary switches. Electricity flows through the circuit when the button is not pressed, but pushing the button immediately opens the circuit. When used in devices like calculator buttons, they enable operators to control elements. Depending on the electrical wiring, button switches can be configured as either push-to-make or push-to-break. Meanwhile, circuit board switches, which prevent the flow of electricity until the button is pushed, control user interaction and sequences. These are typically mounted on a printed circuit board and used in devices like keyboards, keypads, and interface control panels. In industrial settings, push button switches are also often connected to Arduino circuit boards and programmable logic controllers to control the functions of various equipment.
• Rerouting Circuits: Mobile plant equipment such as forklifts and heavy-duty vehicles utilise single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switches to reverse power sources and securely isolate circuits. In machinery, SPDT push button switches are frequently employed to reverse electric motor directions, switch between power sources for redundancy, or transfer monitoring signals. Meanwhile, they may be used in commercial and residential lighting controls to dim lights gradually.
• Equipment and Personnel Safety: In humid or moist environments, waterproof push button switches effectively prevent moisture from infiltrating the electrical wiring, ensuring the electrical equipment operates normally and the safety of operators.
• Signalling Purposes: Tact push button switches, typically designed for mounting on PCB boards, often produce a clicking sound when pushed, enabling operators to know whether a circuit is open or closed. Some tactile options like a single pole single throw (SPST) push button switch may also come with in-built LED illumination that visually indicates whether a device is on, off, or experiencing a fault.

Product Range offered at RS

At RS New Zealand, we understand the diverse needs of our customers when it comes to push button switches. That is why we offer a comprehensive selection of products that include both illuminated and non-illuminated options, as well as momentary switches in various shapes, sizes, and colours. These switches cater to a wide range of voltage requirements, from as low as 12v to as high as 1,110v, ensuring compatibility for both low- and high-voltage applications. Whether you're upgrading a system or replacing parts, RS New Zealand has the right push button switch to meet your specifications and enhance your setup.

How to Order Push Button Switches from RS?

We also pride ourselves on providing quality products sourced from top manufacturers at competitive prices. Some of our trusted brands include APEM, ITW Switches and our exclusive RS PRO brand, ensuring you receive excellent value for your money.

Delivery Information for New Zealand

Orders for items stocked locally in New Zealand or Australia should be placed before 5 pm NZT and 3 pm NZT, respectively, to enjoy next working day delivery.

While RS is committed to delivering your push button switches and other products the following working day between 8 am and 5 pm local time, some products may require longer lead times. Some of these include:

• Global Stock and Extended Range products.
• Orders containing hazardous materials.
• Items over 20kg, with a cubic weight over 20kg, or longer than 1.5 metres.

Extended lead times may also be expected for non-core products and deliveries to specific regional areas. Please reach out to Customer Service for more information or to arrange consolidated delivery.