Foot Switch

[Joe Mc]

OK I'm searched out I've been looking for a momentary switch to interupt a 12v system which has to be depressed to make the system work. I can't find the blasted thing anywhere - I'd prefer a very slim pad that can be placed in the carpet somewhere and be pressed on to activate.

Any ideas???

 

[FTwardoch]

Not sure about your 'momentary' thing but I use an old GM floor dimmer switch to actuate my Pro Comp 130W lights (through a relay). Cheap and better in my opinion than using hands.

 

[Boondocker]

Try searching for horn button since switches for horns are momentary.

 

[Bernie]

Fire Truck Part

We use a floor switch that is fairly stout (I thinkg 20 or 30 amps), momentary connection for hands free activation of siren or air horns in fire trucks. It is Normally Open (closed when depressed). If you need Normally Closed (open when depressed) you will need to connect it up to a relay.



I work for a fire truck distributor and repair facility. I'm sure I can get you one if you need it. I'm not sure of the brand we usually use. I doubt we have it in stock (not an item that fails often), but I'm sure we could get it if needed. PM me and I'll put you in touch with our parts guy.



Also, I found this on eBay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150038820333&category=58169

It isn't the model I am familiar with, but it is inexpensive and might be worth a try. I'm sure it is less than what my company can get you.



Good luck!

 

[Joe G.]

A door bell switch will work too, but you have to use a relay because they don't carry much current.

 

[RyanB]

Like mentoned above... any old style GM dimmer switch will work for you. I have one I took out of a 80's style pickup and it can handle pretty much any amount of amps I want to throw at it. I was going to use it for my grid heaters but then got to thinking I want one that shuts the current off when I take my foot off... the gm unit doesn't do this.



Ryan

 

[Joe Mc]

Thanks for the replies so far. I'm trying to find a thin pad or other type N/O switch (less than 1/4" or a bit more maybe) that will be concealed under the carpet which requires pressure placed on it by your foot depressing to interupt starter. I've searched all over and can only find something close but, it requires lass than 1/2 oz of pressure to close - that weight of the carpet would do that rendering the switch useless. Can't find on Radio shack on line. Keep em coming. Thanks

 

[Radshooter]

What about some kind of pressure sensor pad used in home security installations? Kind of like the ones put under a window, and when the burglar steps on it after crawling through the window, it activates the alarm?

Don't know what kind of amps they run, but may be worth looking at???

 

[Joe Mc]

Radshooter - that sounds like it's worth looking at - any idea where to begin? I'll try "home security" and "sensor pad" see where that leads. Thanks

 

[Pawpaw]

A great source for all things electrical:



http://www.digi-key.com/



Bob

 

[mcdaniel1]

Check out these.



http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/ww...rodIndexRefinementSearch&L1=Control+Switches,

 

[Joe Mc]

mcd - thanks that was the first place I looked too thick/bulky. Keep em comin guys - appreciated.

 

[Joe Mc]

BINGO!!!

http://www.inclusive.co. uk/catalogue/acatalog/pal_pad_switches.html

I'm going with the mini 2" X 2", $30 + shipping (?). I plan conceal it in a place that is . . . well, concealed.

Distributor closest to me is on Waxhaw, NC (Hmmm "Wax" "Haw" - I'll leave it alone) - Toll Free Phone is 800-462-0930, ask for Nigel. I'll tell him he might be receiving a few other calls. :-laf

 

[Joe Mc]

Wow - suprised no replies? I'm going to log the number of views to see if at least folks are looking and finding the info helpful.

286 as of 10-17-06

 

[DieselDoghouse]

We of the electro-hobbyist society regret to inform you that all things Radio Shack are dead or have been graded grave condition. BUT add this outfit to your list to replace the defunct radioshack.com: www.mouser.com. Mouser Electronics is an industrial electronics warehouse that will sell retail - most do not. I have had very good luck with them. You will start seeing several large catalogs a year. BTW radioshack intended to be out of the component business by 2007 - looks like they made it!!!