Term of the Moment
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Definition: DIP switch
(Dual In-line Package switch) A set of tiny toggle switches built into a dual in-line package (DIP), which is mounted directly on a circuit board. The tip of a pen or pencil is used to flip the switch on or off (close or open the circuit). A bit cumbersome to flip, DIP switches used to be more popular than they are today. See DIP, jumper and switch.
Switches on a DIP
Mostly replaced by programmable chips and a software control panel, DIP switches provide an inexpensive way to select hardware options. However, they require opening the case and figuring out which switch to open or close.