Hi. When one pushes a sprung, 'momentary' button does it close the circuit and let go of connection whether you hold it down a long time or not ? Or, does holding it down continue to keep circuit closed where it can overheat/burn out a solenoid type switch motor ? Do I gather 'momentary' is only referring to the spring action, which of course opens circuit if and when we let go ? Yes ?
Many momentary toggles will be true momentary, even if they stay in position. Push buttons tend to be on until released. But there are always exceptions, you just have to read the specs for the item
Not giving you a hard time, but you have found toggle switches that you physically throw, the arm moves and yet there is only a momentary connection? I could use a number of them, please point me to where you found these. (I'm not asking for plastic special made train stuff, but real toggles) Thanks, Greg
greg ... digikey have toggles that are true momentary, usually a heat actuated spring in the 20$ ones, sometimes adjustable, relay in the [much] more expensive ones , haven't bought any of either 'true' style, lol
Greg, haven’t found any in many many years. Everything I find today snap back to the middle “off” position, but I used to have lab equipment that did this. I keep looking. I wish I knew where they came from. I did not mean to imply, above, that I had any today, just that a “momentary toggle” would be that, unlike a push button.
In standard electronics lexicon, "momentary" means continuity (or not, depending on normally closed or open) as long as the switch actuator is depressed, as contrary as it seems. It was originally assuming the button is only pushed "momentarily". Doug
OK. So I think most replies are saying one does have to, with the less expensive 'momentaries', let go of them quickly or they will keep the circuit closed, which can burn out the device. Makes sense...Thanks, M
I didn't want to start a new thread, but when I visit the websites of large electronic parts suppliers such as Digi-Key, Mouser, Newark, etc. to collect components for a project (such as to test George Stillwell's BCD Turnout Circuit), I'm overwhelmed. Ask for a 35V 2200uF Capacitor and perhaps a 100 alternatives appear. Look for an spdt on-on toggle and 50 appear. Using filters helps, but not appreciably. Like the three bears, Radio Shack's offerings are too thin (no suitable radial lead caps, poor terminal block selection) and others are too large. Is there a supplier that caters to amateur hobbyists that doesn't overwhelm?
Have you ever tried All Electronics? They don't have the variety but they do usually have basic stuff. Sepp
It's funny that you mention All Electronics Sepp! Several hours after I made my post, I stumbled onto their website [www.allelectronics.com] and was able easily find what I need. I am just reading your post now and agree that it's a very good suggestion. I see that they also have a nice selection of stranded wire in gauges that match Kato's (Kato Unitrack wire for track power is Blue/White 24 AWG and their wire for turnouts is Red/Black 26 AWG) and they stock it in many colors. Thank you!
I'm very impressed with [www.allelectronics.com]. As shipped from CA to the east coast without expedited freight, I ordered two dozen items on Friday morning and had them in my hand by Monday. That's excellent service and the order was shipped complete. It's been 45 years since I messed around building circuits. I'm looking forward to some experimentation. Hopefully a curl of smoke won't arise from my project board.
Just a note to anyone ordering from Newark that if you place your order as a "Guest" instead of setting up an Account, your order will be held in a backlog until their credit department reviews everything. This affects all Guest orders and the process can take weeks. Furthermore, if you phone Newark to check on the status of your "Guest" order, they often have great difficulty finding the order or referencing the transaction. The good news is that Newark's people are exceptionally kind and helpful, and they will eventually square things up and get your order shipped. I just wanted to mention this peculiarity in their system. If you want a smooth transaction, set up an Account.
I purchased some switches that incorporate a small circuit board to control turnouts. The switch provides momentary power to actuate the solenoids, and continuous power to power LED's that indicate the position of the switch and or turnout. They are only for dual solenoid turn out controls, and are surprisingly inexpensive! What I like about them is that "Momentary" means parts of a second. and the low price.
