Editing Action

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The '''action''' of a switch describes how it operates.

;Momentary action
:Momentary switches only make contact momentarily (between actuation and release)
;Alternate action
:These switches alternate between open and closed every time they are pressed, hence the name
;Latching action
:Same as alternate action — typically, alternate action switches have a mechanical latch that holds the mechanism closed, and frequently (but not universally) the slider remains partially depressed when the switch is closed, giving visual state indication
;Normally open (NO)
:The switch is open (disconnected) when released, and closed (connected) when depressed
;Normally closed (NC)
:The switch is closed when released, and open when depressed

[[Category:Keyboard terms]]