Switches are Clicky; Here's Why

3M views · 7 years ago · explainer · evergreen

Technology Connections explains why wall light switches click, covering the snap-action mechanism and the design reasons behind the sound and feel. It also touches on sparking inside switches.

HN people recommend it as the best background on switch design, and as one of the favorite videos from a channel with a hacker's eye for everyday technology.

“The TC channel is definitely a hacker's eye view in to all the technologies that we take for granted every day.”

4 comments from Hacker News

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@eru2023 · in “What is ChatGPT doing and why does it work?”
For an illustration of your point, have a look at the Light Switch design in this video: link Over time, the designs become so much simpler. (I just link to this video because it has good views of old switches. For understanding the background, ▶ this video is much better.) For another instance of designs becoming much simpler over time, also have a look at how firearms work, especially pistols.
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@bcjordan2022 · in “Interest in heat pumps has increased dramatically in recent years”
Came here to post this :D The TC channel is definitely a hacker's eye view in to all the technologies that we take for granted every day. Tons of fascinating tech history covered, too. Other fun ones: - a defense of the simple drip coffee maker link - why do the turn signals not sync up when you're at a stop light? link - how humidifiers work and ehy the simple swamp cooler style are pretty ideal link - why dishwasher detergent packs are stupid (use powder/liquid) and why you should use the pre-wash slot and not bother pre rinsing your plates link - why do light switches click? ▶ this video
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@thunderbong2022 · in “Switches are Clicky; Here's Why [video]”
Submitted the video to Hacker News.
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@TheSpiceIsLife2020 · in “Ultimate Guide to Switch Debounce”
Technology Connections has a good video on switches sparking, or not, ▶ this video
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