RC Switch Module

RC control modules and switches for model shipbuilding

With an RC control module, lighting, pumps, motors, sound modules and many other special functions can be conveniently switched on and off via the remote control. The control module is connected to the RC receiver and converts the signals from a free remote control channel into the corresponding switching commands.

Particularly in functional and model ship building, switch modules are among the most important components if a model is to be equipped with realistic additional functions alongside its propulsion and steering systems.

In our range, you will find simple electronic RC switches as well as multi-channel switching modules, high-load switches and programmable switching and function modules from manufacturers such as Beier Electronic, Graupner, Robbe, Pichler, Krick and aero-naut.

What can be controlled using an RC switching module?

Depending on the model and load capacity, a wide variety of functions in the model can be remotely controlled:

• Position and navigation lights
• Searchlights and deck lighting
• Pumps and fire monitors
• Small electric motors
• Winches and specialised drives
• Sound and noise modules
• Horns and signal transmitters
• Smoke generators
• Flashing and warning lights
• Relays and other electronic loads

This makes RC Switches particularly suitable for tugs, workboats, sea rescue cruisers, fireboats, naval vessels and other elaborately equipped functional models.

Simple electronic RC switches

A simple electronic switch is often sufficient for a single function. Such modules are connected to a free receiver output and allow a load to be switched on and off via a switch or transmitter on the remote control.

The range includes both modules for smaller loads and high-performance electronic load switches. The power switches on offer can, for example, switch loads with up to 7 A continuous current, whilst other modules are designed for smaller loads.

Memory function – switching instead of pressing buttons

Many RC switching modules feature a memory or memo function. A short switching pulse on the transmitter is all that is needed to activate a function. The output then remains active until it is switched again.

This function is particularly suitable for lighting, sound modules or other loads that are intended to remain switched on permanently.

There are also momentary functions. Here, the output remains active only for as long as the corresponding transmitter button is pressed.

Duo Switch and Multiswitch – multiple functions via a single RC channel

Anyone wishing to control several special functions can use multi-channel switching modules or multiswitch modules.

The Duo Switch, for example, allows two special functions to be controlled via a single receiver channel and features a memory function.

More powerful modules can implement even more functions via a single channel. The Beier RC-SM-4, for example, has four outputs and various operating modes for memory, momentary, lighting, flashing and other functions.

Lighting control in model ships

The lighting of a model ship in particular often requires several independently switchable outputs. Position lights, interior lighting, searchlights, deck lighting or warning lights should, where possible, be controllable separately via the remote control.

The aero-naut Easy-Light, for example, allows up to five functions to be controlled via just one remote control channel. This also allows the use of loads with different supply voltages.

Programmable multiswitch systems are available for even more extensive lighting and special functions.

Switching modules for pumps, motors and high currents

Not every load places the same demands on a switching module. LEDs require only low currents, whilst pumps, motors, smoke generators or other high-power loads may require a significantly higher load capacity.

Therefore, when selecting a module, particular attention must be paid to the maximum switching current and maximum permissible switching voltage.

The range includes, for example, high-load switching modules designed for currents up to 16 A and external load voltages up to 21.5 V.

Programmable switching modules for complex functional models

For large-scale functional ships, simple on/off switches are often no longer sufficient. Programmable RC multiswitch and function modules are available for this purpose.

The Beier RC-SM-16, for example, offers 16 individually configurable switching outputs as well as four servo outputs. In addition to classic proportional channels, it can also process various sum signals and multi-channel systems, making it particularly suitable for complex scale and functional model ships.

Sound, lighting and switching in a single module

Some modules combine several functions in a single unit. The Beier USM-RC-3, for example, integrates sound, lighting and servo control and can process numerous RC channels. The more compact MSM-1 combines sound functions with eight switching outputs for lighting and other loads.

Such modules are particularly useful for highly detailed model ships where engine noise, a signal horn, lighting and special functions are to be combined.

Which RC switching module do I need?

Before making a selection, you should first determine how many functions are to be controlled and what electrical power the connected loads require.

Also important are the module’s operating voltage, the permissible switching voltage, the maximum continuous current and the type of control required. For simple lighting, a small electronic switch is often sufficient. For multiple lighting functions, a multiswitch is advisable, whilst pumps or high-power loads require a high-load switching module with the appropriate capacity.

For large functional models, a programmable switching module with multiple outputs can help to control numerous functions via just a few channels on the remote control.

RC switching modules for realistic special functions in model ships

Whether it’s a simple RC switch, a light switch, a high-load switching module or a programmable multi-switch – with the right switching module, a model ship’s special functions can be conveniently operated via the remote control.

Discover our selection of RC switching modules for model ships and functional model-making and enhance your model with lighting, sound, pumps, motors and many other remote-controlled functions.