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How to Install a Fighter Pilot Switch

Fighter pilot switches consist of a metal toggle and a plastic cover designed to prevent the inadvertent operation of the toggle. The switches are referred to as "Fighter Pilot switches" due to a resemblance to the switches found in the cockpits of many military fighter planes. The switches are used in a variety of different applications, but are most frequently installed to customize the "on" and "off" functions of a computer.

Things You'll Need

Drill
Flathead screwdriver
1/2-inch drill bit
Small file
Pencil
Motherboard power connector
Locking nut

Instructions

- 1
  Connect the power wire from the motherboard connector to the center screw of the switch. Use the screwdriver to loosen the screw, and then insert the power wire. Secure the connection by tightening the screw. If the wires are not labeled, consult the documentation that came with the motherboard connector.
- 2
  Connect the remaining wire from the motherboard connector to either of the screws adjacent to the center screw. Loosen the screw, and then install the wire in the same way that the power wire was installed. The toggle switch powers on the device when it is flipped in the direction of the screw attached to the second wire.
- 3
  Select a mounting location for the switch on the computer; draw a hole that is the same diameter as the toggle switch. Choose a location that is not already occupied by another computer component. Create the mounting hole for the toggle switch using the drill. Use the file to smooth the opening created with the drill.
- 4
  Insert the toggle switch in the hole, and then attach the plastic flip-cover. Secure the cover in place using the included locking nut. Complete the installation by connecting the motherboard connector to the appropriate input on the motherboard. Consult the motherboard's documentation; the exact location differs depending on the model.

Aviation