Introduction: How-To Wire an LED Rocker Switch to a Linear Actuator

About: Progressive Automations is your primary source for electric linear actuators, motion control systems and automation accessories. For over a decade, we have supplied various industries with top quality automati…

The simplest control system for a user to implement 12 VDC linear actuators will have to be a DPDT (double pole double throw) rocker switch. It can output DC current in both directions from the power supply, therefore it can control the linear actuator to extend and retract. In this Instructable, we will cover specifically how to wire an actuator to our LED Rocker Switch that lights up when active.

There are two rocker switch varieties, momentary and non-momentary (or latching and non-latching). The momentary (non-latching) ones must be held down to maintain the connection, while the non-momentary (latching) ones are just pressed and stay in place until you press again. We will be using the non-momentary (latching) switches for this Instructable.

Supplies

· 1 x PS-20-12-67 100-120VAC to 12VDC power supply with a current rating of 20A

· 1 x AC-17 Wiring Kit

· 1 x PA-09 Mini Industrial Actuator (12 VDC actuator for demonstration)

· 1 x RC-11 Non-Momentary Rocker Switch

Step 1: Prepping the Components

Gather all the components to be ready for preparation.

· Ensure all supplies are placed onto a workbench in an organized manner

· Identify the pin numbers of each component and note them down

· Have wire cutters, strippers, and crimpers at the ready

Step 2: Wiring the 12 VDC Power Supply

Wire the 12 VDC power supply as follows:

· Connect +12VDC [+] to Pin 2 of the LED Rocker Switch

· Connect COM [-] to Pin 5 of the LED Rocker Switch

Step 3: Wiring the 12 VDC Actuator

Wire the 12 VDC actuator as follows:

· Connect Actuator Positive [+] to Pin 3 of the LED Rocker Switch

· Connect Actuator Negative [-] to Pin 6 of the LED Rocker Switch

· Connect Pin 6 and Pin 1 of the LED Rocker Switch together

· Connect Pin 3 and Pin 4 of the LED Rocker Switch together

Step 4: Completing the LED Rocker Switch Wiring

To enable the LED to light up when the rocker switch is active, please follow the wiring below:

· Connect Pin 7 and Pin 5 of the LED Rocker Switch together

Once completed, the circuit would have an actuator that is controlled by a rocker switch which lights up when active as seen in our video below:

Conclusion

If you'd like to browse our selection of linear actuators, motion control systems, and microcontrollers then please visit us at www.progressiveautomations.com for all your actuator needs! We can even build a custom actuator or control system for you based on your custom specifications with the help of our highly trained staff of engineers. You can learn more about the custom order process right here!

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