What kind of Momentary Switch?

**revbjeff** · 12-08-2009, 02:46 PM

So I'm about to solder some wires on to my power button but I'm not sure what kind of switch I need. Someone told me I need a DPST. Is this true?

TIA

**soundman98** · 12-08-2009, 06:33 PM

a momentary switch is a switch that will only make contact when you push it. a standard switch will stay in whatever position you put it in-- which could be bad for a power button.

i think you should only need a single pole single throw (SPST) switch-- that makes contact when pressed. though a double pole single throw(DPST) switch will work, you will just leave the N.C.(Normally Closed) contact not connected.

**revbjeff** · 12-08-2009, 07:31 PM

Excellent thanks for the clarification

**trader007** · 12-08-2009, 08:34 PM

Originally Posted by soundman98

a momentary switch is a switch that will only make contact when you push it. a standard switch will stay in whatever position you put it in-- which could be bad for a power button.

i think you should only need a single pole single throw (SPST) switch-- that makes contact when pressed. though a double pole single throw(DPST) switch will work, you will just leave the N.C.(Normally Closed) contact not connected.

doesnt double pole mean there is two sets of switches? and single throw means only one acting contact... but yeah either way SPST is all you need.

**soundman98** · 12-10-2009, 05:21 PM

yes, i guess i was thinking of a dpdt switch...

**Wayne613** · 12-10-2009, 05:35 PM

As stated just make sure it states "normally open" on the packaging as well. Unless you want it to constantly turn on and off. =)

**revbjeff** · 12-11-2009, 02:45 AM

Thanks for the input guys. I'm hoping this arcade machine button will work. It would go perfect in my car.

Basically one of these:http://www.happcontrols.com/pushbuttons/5891xxl.htm

**revbjeff** · 12-11-2009, 02:54 AM

From what I read it will work. The microswitch has three post 1. Com 2. (NO) Normally Open 3. (NC) Normally Closed.

So I believe I will need to just hook the two leads from the power button to the COM and NO

**Curiosity** · 12-11-2009, 03:31 AM

That should work fine, but just so you know, the power button does not stop power from being consumed by the PC and draining the battery. An intelligent DC-DC PSU is the best choice for automotive use.

**revbjeff** · 12-11-2009, 09:10 AM

Ummm.... I planned on taking a laptop auto/air adapter and hard wiring it to the cigarette lighter. Won't that prevent the laptop from draining my battery?

I don't understand how to plug the laptop into the p1900. Is there a diagram somewhere?