Question: what type of switch is a computer power button

title: Switch
text: In electrical engineering , a switch is an electrical component that can `` make '' or `` break '' an electrical circuit , interrupting the current or diverting it from one conductor to another . The mechanism of a switch removes or restores the conducting path in a circuit when it is operated . It may be operated manually , for example , a light switch or a keyboard button , may be operated by a moving object such as a door , or may be operated by some sensing element for pressure , temperature or flow . A switch will have one or more sets of contacts , which may operate simultaneously , sequentially , or alternately . Switches in high - powered circuits must operate rapidly to prevent destructive arcing , and may include special features to assist in rapidly interrupting a heavy current . Multiple forms of actuators are used for operation by hand or to sense position , level , temperature or flow . Special types are used , for example , for control of machinery , to reverse electric motors , or to sense liquid level . Many specialized forms exist . A common use is control of lighting , where multiple switches may be wired into one circuit to allow convenient control of light fixtures .