Monitor switch

[Ash...Housewares]

First, I'd like to extend a special thanks to all of you who have graciously helped me with my previous problems.  My monitor is now up and working like a champ.

That having been said, I'm now looking for a way to make a normal microswitch button act as a toggle for my monitor's power.  I've thought about putting in a big Frankenstein-style throw switch, but that'd just be tacky.  

I've thought about putting in a toggle switch in place of the microswitch as well, but I don't know if that's the way most have had to do it.  However, if the toggle switch is the way to go, can I get any recommendations?

Thanks,
-Ash

[breech]

microswitches are momentary - like a control panel button, they only stay on or off as long as something is pressing it. the only reason i can think of using one for monitor power is whenever the cab door is closed the screen powers up? anyway, the switch HAS to be rated above the voltage & current you intend on putting through it. (any 250v switch will do) as far as switches go, theres millions of styles to choose from. i have got a red square shapes, illuminated rocker switch on top of the cab. easy to find & looks good. you could go for a 'panic' button (toggle) , - punch it for on again for off, rocker style (like mine) or momentary. farnell components have a huge range of switches.. might be a good start.

[DaveJ-UK]

You could use a microswitch with a relay. Obviously you'd need to find an appropriate relay. It's on my list of to-do's but it's pretty low down as the rocker does the job fine.

[fredster]

You could use a microswitch with a relay.

I have seen some people post this before Dave.  Do you have a schematic of how to do this?  I'd like to try it.

The simplest way is a 120 V toggle switch in line on the monitor cord ?

[DaveJ-UK]

I haven't really looked into it properly. I just had a quick google search and the top 10 results are all broken links!

I expect the relays are called momentary contact relays. Looking at maplin.co.uk, components/relays/6 and 12V 6A Miniature Relays "Double pole double throw changeover relays" look the most appropriate but you'll need one that can handle a higher voltage.

I'm sure rs components will carry the exact part.