What does it do?
| The tilt switch is used to detect movement. |
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How does it operate?
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Tilt Switch Circuit
Click on the circuit diagram to download a Livewire file of the circuit that you can investigate and add to your own circuit.
A PCB-mounting terminal block
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The tilt switch unit gives an output signal which changes from low to high when the tilt switch sensor is turned.
The tilt switch circuit is a potential divider whose output voltage is determined by the upper and lower parts of the circuit.
Health and Safety
Some tilt switches contain mercury. If these are damaged the mercury (which is poisonous) can escape. Always use a non-mercury tilt switch.
The tilt switch is connected to the PCB by wires connected to a terminal block mounted on the PCB. |
Possible applications
- Checking when a moving part e.g. a car park barrier, has turned through a required angle
Making
How part of the PCB might look
Testing
Make sure that the signal going out (on the green PCB track) changes from low to high when the tilt switch sensor is rotated.
Fault finding
If there is a fault, check that:
- The resistance of the tilt switch sensor changes from a high resistance to a low resistance when it is rotated.
If there is a fault, check the tracks and solder joints.
Alternatives
- Rotation Sensor – more suitable for use by a user but requires comparator for use with a digital system
- Microswitch – can check when an object has rotated to a required position but the switch stops any further rotation.
Web links
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