The Space-Time (and Cost) Continuum of Programmable Switches A Back to the Future Look at ROI

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Traditional electromechanical switches serve an important role in modern electronics design. There are numerous situations where their use is perfectly sufficient. However, as the demand for greater functionality from devices and equipment increases, many engineers have found their use in certain designs is no longer feasible.

This paper will discuss how the use of such switches in certain designs, particularly complex devices and equipment, can result in three specific issues: running out of panel space; increased time to train users and increased time for users to do their job effectively; and finally, high financial costs associated with implementing dozens, hundreds or even thousands of traditional switches.

It will also discuss programmable switches as an alternative input method. In contrast, such programmable switches incorporate a changeable graphical display on the actuator surface of an electromechanical switch capable of displaying graphics, alphanumeric characters, animated sequences and even full motion video.