Fixing pins

Fixing pins are small plastic posts moulded into the base of a switch. These help keep PCB-mounted switches steady until they are soldered in place and provide extra support during operation; extra holes are made in the PCB to take the pins. Plate-mounted switches have no need for them, as they are held by the plate prior to soldering and the plate supports the switches and prevents operational forces being exerted against the PCB and solder joints. Cherry MX switches in particular are available in variants with and without fixing pins.

Gallery

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  Cherry M8 base with stout fixing pins

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  Single, central fixing pins in RAFI RS 74M switches

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  SMK inverse cross mount switches with fixing pins