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Push Buttons & Selector Switches

Push buttons and selector switches are the complete operator units through which machine operators directly input commands to the control system, from start and stop to mode selection and jog functions. The actuator style, operator action, and contact configuration all affect how reliably the installed equipment can be controlled, making part number matching essential when sourcing a replacement.

Where Are Push Buttons & Selector Switches Used in Industrial Environments?

Push buttons provide momentary or latching control inputs at the operator level, initiating machine sequences, triggering emergency stops, and resetting faulted states, while selector switches establish persistent operating conditions such as manual versus automatic mode or local versus remote control. Both are sourced as complete units when the installed operator requires full replacement rather than component-level repair of an individual accessory.

Facilities and operations that depend on push buttons and selector switches include:

Motor control centers where push-button start/stop stations require complete operator unit replacement following damage or wear.

Pump and compressor control panels where selector switches manage local/remote and manual/auto operating mode selection.

Batch process facilities using push buttons for sequence initiation and selector switches for recipe and product changeover selection.

Machine tool operator stations combining push buttons and selector switches for cycle control, feed rate, and spindle direction.

HVAC and building automation panels where selector switches control equipment mode and push buttons initiate manual overrides.

When a push button or selector switch requires replacement, matching the product family and operator configuration of the installed unit preserves panel function and avoids rewiring.

Which Brands of Push Buttons & Selector Switches Does PLC Direct Stock?

PLC Direct stocks push buttons and selector switches from Siemens, Schneider Electric, and Cutler Hammer for replacement and maintenance in existing installed systems.

Siemens SIRIUS ACT 3SU1: Complete push button units, illuminated push button operators, selector switch assemblies, and emergency stop operators for replacement in installed SIRIUS ACT control panels.

Schneider Electric Harmony XB4: Metal modular push button and selector switch complete operators for replacement in existing Harmony XB4-equipped control panels and operator stations.

Schneider Electric Harmony XB5: Plastic modular push button and selector switch operators for replacement in panels and operator stations equipped with Harmony XB5 devices.

Cutler-Hammer 10250T series: Heavy-duty push-button and selector-switch assembled operators for direct replacement of installed 10250T pilot devices in motor control centers and legacy panels.

All push-button and selector-switch hardware in this collection is available as Sealed Surplus, Never Used Surplus, or Used/Refurbished, subject to inventory.

What Should You Know Before Ordering Push Buttons & Selector Switches?

Hardware condition options: Push buttons and selector switches are supplied as Sealed Surplus, Never Used Surplus, or Used/Refurbished. For complete operator units, the condition of the actuator mechanism and any illumination element should be considered alongside the contact block. Sealed Surplus units provide a fully assembled operator in factory condition, ready for direct panel installation.

Compatibility and part identification: Push buttons and selector switches are specified by actuator style, operator action, contact configuration, and whether an illuminated push button is required, all of which are encoded in the installed unit's part number. Complete units within Siemens SIRIUS, Schneider Harmony, and Cutler Hammer 10250T families use series-specific contact blocks and mounting components; confirm the full part number of the installed operator before ordering to ensure mechanical and electrical compatibility.

Warranty: All push buttons and selector switches hardware purchased from PLC Direct carries a standard 1-year PLC Direct warranty, not an OEM warranty, covering defects and functionality, applicable to all condition grades. This warranty is issued by PLC Direct as an independent supplier. PLC Direct supplies push buttons and selector switches for replacement and maintenance, and does not provide system design, programming, or integration services.

Frequently Asked Questions

A push button has a single operator that is pressed to trigger a momentary or latching action, used for discrete commands such as start, stop, and reset. A selector switch has a rotating knob that moves between two or more defined positions and holds that position until deliberately changed, used for mode selection and persistent state control.

Common actuator styles include flush, extended, and illuminated variants, each suited to different operational requirements; flush operators are recessed to reduce accidental actuation, while extended operators are raised for easier operation in demanding environments. The installed actuator style is part of the push button's part number and must be matched when sourcing a replacement to maintain the same operational characteristics and mounting compatibility.

A spring-return selector switch automatically returns to a neutral position when released, making it ideal for temporary mode changes, such as jogging or momentary overrides. A maintained selector switch holds its selected position after turning until deliberately moved again, used for persistent mode selection, such as manual versus automatic or local versus remote control.

Operator size refers to the mounting diameter of the push button barrel, which must match the existing panel cutout, and is a fixed characteristic determined by the original panel design. Siemens SIRIUS and Schneider Harmony series use a standard mounting diameter, while Cutler Hammer 10250T uses a larger, non-interchangeable diameter; these are not interchangeable without modifying the panel opening.

The control panel's wiring diagram or equipment documentation typically identifies the operator by part number and position label, making it the most reliable reference when the unit itself is unlabeled. If documentation is unavailable, identifying the manufacturer series, body style, actuator type, and operator action from the physical unit provides enough information to locate a compatible replacement.