contura switches - which type to use

[alandchris]

i see several designations - forgetting about the momentary switches - i see
1) SPST
2) SPDT
3) DPST
4) DPDT

what does the above mean.

i have the following accessories - which type of contura switch am i to use ?
1) on/off for bilge (actually I might have an on/off/on for the automatic function - i'll have to check again)
2) on/off for accessory
3) on/off for livewell
4) on/off/on for anchor / running lites

another question - would you wire a switch to a sonar/gps unit or just wire to the unit itself since it has an on / off button on the unit already.

another question - i either need to replace all the wire, or at least replace the end connectors - the boat is only 7 years old - there is some light corrosion on the ends - i would think the wire itself is ok - your thoughts ?

thx for any takers on this question...
Al

 

[bruceb58]

Re: contura switches - which type to use

Everyone of those switches will be SPST except for the running/anchor lights which will be DPDT with an on/off/on configuration.

I would direct wire the sonar/GPS unit to the battery with a separate fuse close to the battery.

Light corrosion(oxidation) is pretty common. I am assuming you are talking about the blade connectors at the wires going to the switches?

SPST Single pole single throw
SPDT Single pole double throw

DPST Double pole single throw
DPDT Double pole double throw

If you buy the DPDT, you can use it in any of the above configurations.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switch

 

[alandchris]

Re: contura switches - which type to use

yes bruceb58
oxidation on the blade connectors...

i figure since i have to check the wiring on the front light and also the bilge and also the livewell I should just change the blades to new. don't need any surprises on the water with one of my kids with me

 

[bruceb58]

Re: contura switches - which type to use

Post a picture of your connectors.

 

[alandchris]

Re: contura switches - which type to use

thanks bruceb58
I'm swamped at work and not around on the weekend to get pics...

but i have another question - as a follow up - just to expand my knowledge

what is the difference or what usage would you use one or the other for the following - I know you said for a simple manual turn on / off a livewell pump use SPST... but what about an SPDT


oh yeah - and what is a MOM or momentary switch used for ?

SPST Single pole single throw
SPDT Single pole double throw

 

[bruceb58]

Re: contura switches - which type to use

A momentary switch would be for something like a horn.

A SPDT switch would be for something where you wanted one thing on in one position but something else on in the other postion.