Connectivity Essentials

Pilot devices are the pushbuttons, selector switches, emergency stops and indicator lights on the front of a control panel. They let an operator start, stop and select machine functions, and show at a glance what the machine is doing. Each one switches a low-current control circuit that in turn drives a relay, contactor, PLC input or drive.

Shop by Mounting Size

22mm Devices The compact standard for new control panels. Fits a 22 mm panel hole, so more operators fit in less space. Shop 22mm devices › 30mm Devices Larger, heavy-duty operators for a 30 mm panel hole — the traditional North American size, common on rugged equipment and retrofit work. Shop 30mm devices ›

Building a Complete Device

Most pilot devices are modular: four parts snap together into one working device. Complete devices are listed with the clip and contact blocks already included. Component listings are a single part, so order each piece you need.

1. Operator The part you press, turn or see: a pushbutton, selector, key switch, E-stop or pilot light head. It mounts through the panel hole.
2. Mounting clip Clamps the operator to the panel from behind and holds the contact blocks. Clips come in 1, 3 and 5 positions.
3. Contact blocks The switching element. A normally open (NO) contact closes when operated — use it to start. A normally closed (NC) contact opens — use it to stop, and always for an E-stop.
4. LED module Lights an illuminated operator or pilot light. Choose the voltage that matches your control circuit, such as 24 V, 130 V or 230 V.

Example: a flush pushbutton operator, a 3-position mounting clip and one normally open contact block make a complete momentary start button. Add more contact blocks to the clip to switch extra circuits, or an LED module behind an illuminated operator to light it.