Overview
This product is a power switch implemented as a pair of P-channel MOSFETs configured as a high-side switch with reverse voltage protection and controlled by a micro slide switch. Because the main current does not go through the controlling mechanical switch, a variety of switches can be used without concern for the current they can carry. For example, a small slide or toggle switch can be mounted conveniently on a control panel with thin wires running to it, while the main power path can be shorter and with thicker wires. Pushbutton or tactile switches can also be used for momentary switching applications.
Unlike the Pololu Pushbutton Power Switches, which can lose their state when power is disconnected and reapplied, the conducting state of the MOSFET Slide Switches is determined only by the physical control switch (or a signal supplied to the “ON” pin), independent of power applied to the board. This can make them more appropriate for applications where the supplied power may be intermittent.
Warning: Do not use this switch as an emergency cutoff or similar safety disconnect in applications where failure to cut power could lead to injury or property damage.
Four versions of the MOSFET slide switches are available:
- Mini Pushbutton Power Switch LV
- Mini Pushbutton Power Switch SV
- Big Pushbutton Power Switch MP
- Big Pushbutton Power Switch HP
The two Mini MOSFET Slide Switches are smaller, lower-current versions that are useful for applications with tight size constraints or lower power requirements. Also, the the Mini LV is the only one of the four that works below 4.5 V; since it can operate down to 1.8 V, this version can be used with a single lithium cell battery.
The pinout of the Big version is the same as the pinout of the Mini version with several additional redundant connection points for convenience, including main power connections that are compatible with 5 mm terminal blocks.
