How-To Wire an LED Rocker Switch to a Linear Actuator

The simplest control system for a user to implement 12 VDC linear actuators will have to be a DPDT (double pole double throw) rocker switch. It can output DC current in both directions from the power supply, therefore it can control the linear actuator to extend and retract. In this Instructable, we will cover specifically how to wire an actuator to our LED Rocker Switch that lights up when active.

There are two rocker switch varieties, momentary and non-momentary (or latching and non-latching). The momentary (non-latching) ones must be held down to maintain the connection, while the non-momentary (latching) ones are just pressed and stay in place until you press again. We will be using the non-momentary (latching) switches for this Instructable.

· 1 x PS-20-12-67 100-120VAC to 12VDC power supply with a current rating of 20A

· 1 x AC-17 Wiring Kit

· 1 x PA-09 Mini Industrial Actuator (12 VDC actuator for demonstration)

· 1 x RC-11 Non-Momentary Rocker Switch

Gather all the components to be ready for preparation.

· Ensure all supplies are placed onto a workbench in an organized manner

· Identify the pin numbers of each component and note them down

· Have wire cutters, strippers, and crimpers at the ready

Wire the 12 VDC power supply as follows:

· Connect +12VDC [+] to Pin 2 of the LED Rocker Switch

· Connect COM [-] to Pin 5 of the LED Rocker Switch

Wire the 12 VDC actuator as follows:

· Connect Actuator Positive [+] to Pin 3 of the LED Rocker Switch

· Connect Actuator Negative [-] to Pin 6 of the LED Rocker Switch

· Connect Pin 6 and Pin 1 of the LED Rocker Switch together

· Connect Pin 3 and Pin 4 of the LED Rocker Switch together

To enable the LED to light up when the rocker switch is active, please follow the wiring below:

· Connect Pin 7 and Pin 5 of the LED Rocker Switch together

Once completed, the circuit would have an actuator that is controlled by a rocker switch which lights up when active as seen in our video below:

Conclusion

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