How to Use Arcade Button (white): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Arcade Button (White) is a momentary push button designed for high-use applications such as arcade game machines and interactive projects. It features a robust build to withstand frequent presses and provides tactile feedback with a satisfying click. These buttons are popular in DIY electronics due to their ease of use and durability.

• Arcade machine controls
• DIY game controllers
• Interactive exhibits
• Educational projects
• Custom keyboards
• Home automation interfaces

• Switch Type: Momentary contact
• Contact Rating: 3A @ 125V AC or 1.5A @ 250V AC
• Terminal Type: Microswitch with .187" (4.75mm) spade connectors
• Operation Force: Approximately 2.5N to 4.5N
• Travel Distance: About 1.5mm to 2mm actuation, 4mm to 5mm total
• Button Diameter: Typically 30mm to 35mm
• Mounting Hole Size: 28mm to 32mm
• Material: Durable plastic with a microswitch made of metal and plastic components
• Color: White (button cap), often with a black microswitch

1. Mounting the Button: Secure the arcade button into a panel with the appropriate hole size. Ensure it is firmly in place.
2. Wiring the Button:
   • Connect the COM pin to the ground of your circuit.
   • Connect the NO pin to the input pin on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino).
   • Optionally, the NC pin can be used if a normally closed configuration is required.
3. Debouncing: Implement software debouncing to ensure single actuation per press.
4. Testing: Verify the button's operation by checking for continuity with a multimeter when pressed.

• Current Limitation: Do not exceed the contact rating of the button.
• Debouncing: Always debounce the button either through hardware (e.g., using a capacitor) or software to prevent false triggering.
• Wiring: Use wires that can handle the current and are long enough for your setup.
• Accessibility: Place the button within comfortable reach of the user.

// Define the pin where the button is connected
const int buttonPin = 2;
// Variable to store the button state
int buttonState = 0;

void setup() {
  // Initialize the button pin as an input
  pinMode(buttonPin, INPUT_PULLUP);
  // Begin serial communication at 9600 baud rate
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the state of the button
  buttonState = digitalRead(buttonPin);
  // Check if the button is pressed
  if (buttonState == LOW) {
    // If the button is pressed, print this message
    Serial.println("Button Pressed");
    // Delay to debounce
    delay(50);
  }
}

• Button does not respond: Ensure the button is correctly wired and the microswitch is not damaged.
• Multiple inputs from a single press: Implement debouncing in your code to resolve this.
• Button sticks when pressed: Check for any obstructions or misalignment in the button assembly.

• Check Connections: Verify all connections are secure and correct.
• Test Continuity: Use a multimeter to check the continuity of the button when pressed.
• Replace Microswitch: If the button is unresponsive, consider replacing the microswitch.

Q: Can I use the arcade button with a 5V circuit? A: Yes, the arcade button can be used with a 5V circuit, such as an Arduino.

Q: How can I light up the arcade button? A: Some arcade buttons come with built-in LEDs. Connect the LED terminals to a power source with the appropriate resistor.

Q: What is the lifespan of an arcade button? A: Arcade buttons are designed for frequent use and typically have a lifespan of several hundred thousand cycles.