The six-leg switch, often referred to as the six-leg self-locking switch, is essentially a double-pole double-throw (DPDT) switch. It has a total of six pins, with three pins arranged in each row. The middle pin in each row serves as the common pin, corresponding to the left and right sides of the switch. One side is normally closed, while the other is normally open. These two rows operate independently, except when they are intentionally connected on the PCB.
For instance, when the switch is pressed, the common pin connects to either the normally open or normally closed pin, depending on its design. If you're looking to control something in a single direction, you could connect pins like 1-2 or 2-3. There are multiple ways to configure the connections based on your requirements.
To better understand its working, consider each row as an individual single-pole double-throw switch. The middle pin acts as the common point, and you can label it as SW-DPDT. Determining which side is open or closed can typically be resolved during the soldering process.
A significant amount of online information about the six-pin self-locking switch's principles is incorrect. However, I've created a diagram to clarify things. In the diagram, only the parts connected by black lines are actually linked; all other connections remain separate.
The six-pin switch follows a specific package format known as KFT-7. The spacing between pins 1 and 2 is 2.54mm, while the distance between pins 3 and 1 is 5.08mm. Understanding the packaging details is crucial when designing PCBs, especially since different manufacturers may have slight variations.
Recently, I encountered some challenges while working with six-legged button switches. For example, I had two switches where I was unsure how they were supposed to function. To solve this, I used a multimeter to test the connections. When pressing the switch, if two pins showed continuity that disappeared upon release, those were the pins I needed.
In summary, the six-leg switch might seem complex initially, but understanding its structure and testing methods can simplify its usage. Whether you're working on a power switch or integrating it into a larger circuit, ensuring proper connections is essential. If you're unsure, always double-check using a multimeter before finalizing your design.
[Image description: Diagram showing the six-pin switch layout with labeled pins and connections. Additional images of the switch in different positions to illustrate functionality.]
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