Presentation 03

Basic Control
Devices
Prepared by:
Engr. Aldrin Cedre
 Content
01 Introduction

02 Manually Operated Devices

03 Mechanically Operated Devices

04 Electromechanical Devices

05 Solid-State Devices
I n t ro d u c t i o n
 Control devices are critical components in electrical and electronic
systems, particularly in automation and industrial processes. They function
as intermediaries that govern the delivery of power to electrical loads
based on specific system requirements, user inputs, or feedback from
sensors.
The main purpose of control devices is to manage the flow of electricity
to operate machinery, motors, or other components in a system. By
responding to signals (manual or automatic), they ensure that devices
operate efficiently, safely, and in alignment with predefined parameters.
Control devices can be broadly categorized into:

• Manually Operated Devices: Require human intervention to

activate or deactivate, such as pushbuttons, toggle switches, and
selector switches.

• Mechanically Operated Devices: Activated by physical actions

such as pressure, motion, or position, including limit switches and
drum switches.

• Electromechanical Devices: Combine electrical and mechanical

elements, like relays and solenoids.

• Solid-State Devices: Utilize semiconductors for switching without

mechanical movement, offering speed and reliability (e.g., solid-state
relays).
Manually Operated
Devices
Manually Operated Devices

Manually operated devices are a fundamental category of control

devices that require direct human intervention to control electrical circuits.
They are used extensively in systems where immediate, deliberate actions
are necessary to initiate, interrupt, or modify the operation of a process.
These devices are versatile and essential for applications ranging from
simple home appliances to complex industrial machinery.
Manually Operated Devices

Manually operated devices come in several

forms, tailored for different applications:
• Toggle Switches: Simple switches controlled
by flipping a lever.
• SPST (Single Pole, Single Throw): Basic on-off
control.
• SPDT (Single Pole, Double Throw): Switches
between two circuits.
• DPST/DPDT: Handle multiple poles for more
complex circuits.
• Pushbutton Switches: Buttons that open or
close electrical circuits when pressed
• Normally Open (N.O.): Closed when pressed,
open otherwise.
• Normally Closed (N.C.): Open when pressed,
closed otherwise.
Manually Operated Devices

• Selector Switches:: Operated by rotating a knob to switch

between multiple positions.
• Drum Switches: Rotational switches that change contact states
as they are turned, often used for direction control.
 Mechanically
Operated Devices
Mechanically Operated Devices

Mechanically operated devices are control devices that activate or

deactivate electrical circuits based on physical movement, position, or
environmental changes. These devices are essential in automated and
semi-automated systems where physical conditions must dictate control
actions. They eliminate the need for continuous human intervention by
responding to mechanical inputs from the system or environment.
Mechanically Operated Devices

• Limit Switches: Switches actuated by

the physical movement of an object,
often through direct contact with a cam
or lever.

• Pressure Switches: Switches that

activate or deactivate based on fluid or
gas pressure.

• Float Switches: Devices that sense

liquid levels using a float mechanism.

• Flow Switches: Devices that detect the

movement of liquids or gases in
pipelines.
E l e c t ro m e c h a n i c a l
Devices
Electromechanical Devices

Electromechanical devices utilize the interaction between electrical

energy and mechanical motion to perform functions like opening or closing
circuits, moving mechanical parts, or regulating power. These devices
bridge the gap between the electrical domain and physical motion, making
them essential for controlling dynamic systems.
Electromechanical Devices

• Relays: Electrically operated switches that use a magnetic field to

open or close circuits.

• Contactors: Larger-scale relays designed to switch heavy electrical

loads such as motors or lighting systems.
Solid-State
Devices
 Solid-State Devices

Solid-state devices are electronic components that control circuits

and systems without any moving parts, relying instead on semiconductor
technology to perform their functions. These devices offer faster, more
reliable, and often more efficient alternatives to electromechanical
counterparts. Their robust nature and adaptability make them
indispensable in modern automation and control systems.
 Solid-State Devices

• Solid-State Relays (SSRs):

Electronic switches that use
optoelectronics to isolate the control
and load circuits and semiconductors
(like thyristors or transistors) to switch
power.

• Thyristors: Semiconductor devices

used for switching and rectification in
high-power applications.
Comparison of
E a c h Ty p e
Type Advantages Disadvantages

• Simple, easy to operate, and low- • Requires human intervention,

cost. unsuitable for automation.
Manual Devices • Slower response times and prone to
• Reliable in non-complex systems. human error.
• Minimal maintenance needed.
• Limited to basic operations.

• Automatically respond to physical • Wear and tear due to moving parts.

inputs (e.g., motion or pressure).
• Slower response time compared to
Mechanical Devices • Rugged and durable in harsh solid-state devices.
environments.
• Requires regular calibration and
• Suitable for safety and positional maintenance.
control applications.
 • Can handle high power loads. • Subject to mechanical wear due to
moving parts.
Electromechanical • Combine the precision of electrical • Slower compared to solid-state
control with mechanical motion.
Devices devices.
• Versatile and adaptable for various • Larger size and higher maintenance
applications (e.g., relays, motors). compared to solid-state alternatives.

• Limited power handling without

• Fast operation with no moving parts, additional heat dissipation.
leading to long lifespan. • Higher initial cost compared to
• High reliability in harsh conditions mechanical and electromechanical
Solid-State Devices (e.g., vibration, moisture). devices.
• Compact size and energy-efficient • Prone to damage from overvoltage
operation. and surges if not properly protected.
• Ideal for high-speed and automation • More complex troubleshooting
applications. compared to mechanical or manual
devices.