ProMax KCD1 SPDT Momentary Rocker Switch - 3-Pin (ON)-OFF-(ON) Spring Return

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

1. What does "Momentary" mean? It means the switch is spring-loaded. It only stays in the "ON" position while you are actively holding it down with your finger. When you let go, it snaps back to the center "OFF" position.

2. What does SPDT mean? SPDT stands for Single Pole Double Throw. It means the switch has one main input (the center pin) that can be directed to one of two different outputs (the outer pins).

3. Will the arrows on the switch look exactly like the photos? Not always. As stated in our disclaimer, the printed arrows or text on the switch face may vary in style depending on the current factory batch.

4. Can I use this 3-pin switch to directly reverse a DC motor? No. To directly flip the positive and negative wires of a DC motor, you need a 6-pin DPDT switch. This 3-pin switch is used to send signals to a motor controller or relay board, which then reverses the motor.

5. How many pins does this switch have? It has exactly 3 brass terminal pins.

6. Does the switch have a center OFF resting position? Yes, the spring mechanism naturally forces the rocker to sit perfectly flat in the middle, breaking all electrical connections so nothing is powered.

7. What are the dimensions of the top face? The black rectangular top face measures 21mm long by 15mm wide.

8. What size hole do I need to cut to mount this? The recommended panel cutout size for a standard KCD1 switch is approximately 19mm x 13mm. We recommend cutting the hole slightly small and filing it until the switch snaps in tightly.

9. Do I need screws to mount it? No. The sides of the switch housing have flexible plastic friction tabs that lock it into a panel automatically.

10. What is the voltage and current rating? It is rated to safely handle 10 Amps at 125VAC, or 6 Amps at 250VAC. It is also fully compatible with 5V, 12V, and 24V DC systems.

11. How do I connect wires to the pins? You can either solder wires directly to the brass pins, or use standard push-on "female spade" crimp connectors (usually the 4.8mm / 0.187" size fits perfectly).

12. Is this switch waterproof? No. The housing is standard molded plastic and has seams that can allow water to enter. It is intended for dry, indoor applications.

13. Does this switch light up? No, this specific model is entirely opaque black plastic and does not contain an internal LED.

14. Which pin is the common/input pin? On a standard 3-pin SPDT switch, the middle pin is your common (input) pin.

15. Can I use this to switch between two different LED lights? Yes! Wire your power to the center pin, and wire your two different LED circuits to the outer pins. Pushing up turns on one light; pushing down turns on the other.

16. Why does the side of the switch say "AC" if I'm using it for a DC motor? Switches are typically rated and stamped for their maximum AC voltage capability for safety certifications. An AC-rated switch functions perfectly safely in lower-voltage DC projects like robotics and Arduino.

17. Can I solder to this without melting it? Yes, but you must work quickly. If you hold a hot soldering iron against the brass pins for too long, the heat will transfer into the plastic housing and melt the internal spring mechanisms.

18. Is the switch made of metal? The internal contacts and the three outer pins are made of conductive metal (usually a brass/copper alloy), but the entire black outer casing and rocker button are made of nylon plastic.

19. How deep is the switch? From the top of the rocker face to the very bottom tip of the metal pins, the total depth is 21mm.

20. Can I remove the spring to make it a standard click switch? While technically possible if you pry the plastic housing apart to remove the internal springs, it is incredibly difficult to reassemble. If you want a switch that stays clicked in place, you should buy a standard "Latching" ON-OFF-ON rocker switch instead.