RC Switch Module

Switch accessories such as lights, winches or sound via remote control. To switch functions via remote control, an RC remote control with a free channel and a switch module/switch is required.

The switch module translates the signals from the remote control and triggers the switching process.

Switch modules are available in many designs, so it is important to plan carefully and consider which module is suitable for the function to be implemented.

What types of switch/switch modules are available?

Two types of modules are commonly used: electronically switching with transistors or electromechanically switching with relays. Transistors are theoretically wear-free and vibration-resistant. Relays are subject to a certain amount of wear and tear, and the switching contact can fail in the event of strong vibrations. Relay modules are insensitive to inductive loads, i.e. motors and coils, and can therefore be operated with higher currents.

Different switching states

Switching modules are available in memory (switching) and non-memory (momentary) versions.

Memory switching modules can be switched on by a switching, touch or proportional channel and store this state even if the switching, touch or proportional channel is moved back to its initial position. The switching module is switched off again by actuating the switching, touch or proportional channel again.

Pulse-type switching modules remain switched on only as long as the switching, pulse or proportional channel is in the switch-on position. If the switching, pulse or proportional channel is moved back to its initial position, the switching module is also switched off again.

Operating voltage of the modules

Indicates the voltage with which the switching module itself can be supplied. This is usually in the range of common receiver voltages, i.e. between approx. 4.8 V and 6 V. However, this information should be found in the technical data of the selected product.

Switching voltage of the modules

Indicates the voltages that can be switched with the module. The voltage range is significantly larger here. However, this information must also be taken from the technical data of the selected product.

Switching current

Indicates the maximum switching current. (Always pay attention to the continuous current.) Since the current requirement depends on the consumer, the required current for the application should be calculated and a switching module with the appropriate power should be selected.

Switched pole

Indicates whether the ‘minus’ or ‘plus’ is switched. Most switching modules switch the “minus”. However, depending on the application, it may also be necessary to be able to switch the ‘plus’.

Switching modules with relays are usually potential-free. This means that you can choose how the relay is connected.

Special applications

There are a wide variety of switching modules for special applications. For example, there are switching modules specifically for controlling motors, some of which also feature a change in direction of rotation. Or switching modules for high-voltage applications such as a switchable kill switch for petrol engines.

Different functions are possible

Switching modules are also available with predefined functions. The classic example would be a flashing module for implementing a turn signal. These switching modules are mostly found in the scale model sector (cars, trucks, ships, tanks).

Number of switching outputs Multiswitch modules

Switching modules are usually available with one or two switching outputs.

However, there are also switch modules with significantly more switch outputs (multiswitch modules). Since these modules are still controlled by only one channel of the remote control, a fixed or adjustable switching sequence is usually specified. For example, each time the switch, button or proportional channel is activated, the next switch output is switched on and the previous switch output is switched off.

-, push-button or proportional channel, the next switching output is switched on and the previous switching output is switched off.