Vandalism remains a perpetual threat to all kinds of embedded systems. Buttons are especially exposed and thus vulnerable - a situation which E-Switch addresses with a variety of highly customizable vandal-safe switches that can be customized to meet the demands of the task at hand.

Vandal-proof switches feature a sturdy construction, allowing them to withstand various forms of attack from the aggressive. E-Switch's offerings are highly durable and configurable. This way, systems using traditional switches can upgrade to a vendor-proof version, avoiding redesigns of control electronics. Finally, the vandal-proof switches - for example, the PV7F2Y0SS-331 shown below - feature beautiful LED illumination and can double as a visual indicator for the operator.

PV7 - A One-Pole Switch With Vandal Robustness

The PV7 family shown in the outline below consists of a variety of options. At the back, terminals permit the connection of control electronics.

Designers who shun the effort of slug termination can also purchase wired units. In this case, E-Switch will provide a switch with preinstalled wires, which must be crimped and connected to the PCB.

LED illumination is provided via additional pins, which are only for handling the LED control signals. Interestingly, E-Switch provides antiparallel diodes. This means that polarity is not of significance, which simplifies circuit design. For the RGB variant, the pinout shown in the figure below is used.

The switch can be ordered in a variety of options. For example, SKU PV7F2Y0SS-3R3, shown below, has a red ring around the button.

The true magic of the PV7 series reveals itself upon visiting the editor found at URL https://www.e-switch.com/product/pv7-series-illuminated-anti-vandal-switch/. There, designers can customize various switch parameters to achieve optimal results. After that, an SKU is generated, which can be used to purchase the component.

PV8 - A Two-Channel Switch With High Robustness

In some situations, a two-contact version of the PV7 can be beneficial. This need is addressed by the PV8 series, as shown in the figure below.

Not dissimilar to the version with one contact, this component can be configured, for example, to add an on-off symbol on the front.

PVA6 - A Latching Power Switch

If the vandal-proof switch is to serve as the primary power control, the PVA6 deserves attention. Firstly, its design - as shown in the figure depicting the PVA6RP24141 - clearly indicates that this switch is intended as a power control device.

Studying the datasheet reveals that E-Switch provides this component in a momentary and a latching version. State can be stored electromechanically in the switch, thereby reducing design complexity.

Conclusion

If a system must be vandal-proof, deploying switches from E-Switch is a surefire way to achieve the design goals. Thanks to the flexible configurability, electromechanics follow the function of the rest of the circuit. In short, a component that is always deserving of consideration.