A slide switch is a mechanical device that is commonly used for controlling an electrical circuit. It utilizes a simple sliding action to move the switch from an open position to a closed one, or vice-versa. As maintained-contact switches, slide switches remain in one state until manually actuated into another state.

Slide switches will often have a single pole, double throw (SPDT) construction. This allows the power being delivered to the circuit to be swapped from one power source to another (referred to as on-on operation). In other words, the movement of the slide switch actuator redirects the flow of current from one circuit to the other.

Single pole, single throw (SPST) slides switches are also commonplace, providing on-off functionality. Under certain circumstances, a double pole, double throw (DPDT) circuit might be required, allowing for on-off-on configurations. It is also possible to have multiple throws for multi-on-on functionality.

The electrical parameters specified on a slide switch datasheet will state what current and voltage levels the slide switch is able to handle as well as parameters like the withstand voltage and the insulation resistance.

Slide switches are also typically available in surface mount, through hole, or panel mount styles. Which is appropriate will depend on the nature of the production process, the space available, and the mechanical stresses of the application as this might affect their board retention. Here are some additional specifications to keep in mind: