page_title: Vandal-resistant switch
section_title: Applications
hierarchical_section_title: Vandal-resistant switch / Applications
caption_attribution_description: Deutsch: Manuelle Ampelschaltung an einer Kasernenausfahrt in Hamburg. English: Manual traffic light switch in front of a military base in Hamburg, Germany.
context_page_description: Vandal-resistant switches are electrical switches designed to be installed in a location and application where they may be subject to abuse and attempts to damage them, as in the case of pedestrian crossing switches. Vandal-resistant switches located on devices that are outdoors must be able to withstand extreme temperatures, dust, rain, snow, and ice. Many vandal-resistant switches are intended to be operated by the general public, and must withstand heavy use and even abuse, such as attempts to damage the switch with metal tools. These switches must also resist dirt and moisture.
  Tamper-resistant switches are types of vandal-resistant switches which are not intended to be operated except by authorized users. They may control special functions, such as auditing of voting machines, operation of power tools or equipment, enabling of security alarm systems, or restocking of vending machines. A very commonly seen tamper-resistant switch is the ignition switch in most motor vehicles.
  Vandal-resistant switches are usually protected by the use of robust materials, such as thick stainless steel or heavy-duty plastics.
context_section_description: Public interactive kiosks that provide tourist information or government forms
  Elevator buttons and security switches
  Pedestrian crossing signal activation switches
  Intercom "push-to-talk" devices at the entrance to apartment buildings
  Electronic door switches for garages and mechanical gates
  Parking lot ticket machines and computerized ticket paying stations
  Alarm, safety, and security systems
  Automatic food and drink vending machines
  Public address systems in schools, community centers, and bars
  Rental equipment that may be subjected to heavy use
caption: Traffic signal switches in a heavy-duty enclosure
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