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The **CSS-233** is a commonly used **Slide Switch** found in electronic circuits, particularly in consumer electronics, toys, and small appliances. It is a sub-miniature, surface-mount (SMD) or through-hole component designed to act as a physical toggle for power or signal routing.
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### Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the typical electrical and physical characteristics of a CSS-233 series switch:
| Parameter | Specification (Typical) |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Circuit Type** | SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw) |
| **Switch Function** | On-On / 2-Position |
| **Current Rating** | 100mA to 300mA |
| **Voltage Rating** | 4V DC to 12V DC |
| **Contact Resistance** | < 70mΩ |
| **Insulation Resistance** | > 100MΩ (at 500V DC) |
| **Operating Life** | 10,000 cycles |
| **Actuator Height** | 2.0mm to 3.0mm |
---
### Internal Construction and Parts
The CSS-233 consists of several precision-engineered electronic and mechanical parts:
1. **Actuator (The Knob):** Usually made of high-temperature plastic (PA66 or POM). It is the part the user slides to change the circuit state.
2. **Contact Terminal:** Typically made of copper alloy with **Silver or Gold plating** to ensure high conductivity and prevent oxidation.
3. **Moving Contact (Slider):** A small metal leaf that bridges the connection between the common pin and the output pins.
4. **Base/Housing:** A heat-resistant thermoplastic frame that holds the terminals in place and protects the internal mechanism.
5. **Terminals:** The pins used to solder the component to a PCB. CSS-233 usually features 3 pins (1 Common, 2 Outputs).
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### Pin Configuration (SPDT)
In a standard CSS-233, the three pins are arranged linearly:
```text
[ Actuator ]
/--------------\
| [1] [2] [3]| <-- Solder Terminals
\--------------/
```
* **Pin 2 (Center):** The Common (COM) terminal.
* **Pin 1 & 3:** The output terminals. When the slider is moved left, Pin 2 connects to Pin 1. When moved right, Pin 2 connects to Pin 3.
---
### Common Applications
Due to its small footprint, the CSS-233 is frequently integrated into:
* **Battery-powered devices:** To turn the power ON or OFF.
* **Circuit Mode Selection:** Switching between different modes (e.g., Mono/Stereo, Gain High/Low).
* **Reset Switches:** For handheld gaming devices or remote controls.
- ⤷
What is the difference between SPDT and DPDT slide switches?
- ⤷ How do I choose between surface-mount (SMD) and through-hole CSS-233 models?
- ⤷ What are the soldering temperature limits for the CSS-233 to avoid melting the housing?