What Constitutes a Special Switch?
Not every application works with a catalog switch. Maybe it needs a specific cord. Maybe it calls for a different connector. Or maybe the equipment requires a higher level of ingress protection. Even small requests like that can shift a part into “Special” territory.
But what actually makes a switch special?
It’s a term that gets used a lot, but it doesn’t always mean the same thing to everyone. Some people think it means a fully custom build. Others think it takes a complete redesign to earn that label. The truth? anything custom would make it a special.
In this blog, we’re breaking down what qualifies a switch as an “extension” and how that differs from a fully custom design, and why even a single tweak can push a product out of standard territory.
When Does a Switch Become “Special”?
A switch becomes special the moment it deviates from our standard catalog offering.
That could mean:
- Extending the cord length
- Adding a specific connector
- Using a different label with customer supplied art
This might seem like small asks, but each one changes how we build and track that part. If it’s no longer the off-the-shelf version we usually ship, it’s flagged and handled as a special.
It doesn’t take a major overhaul; just one change is enough.
Extension vs. Custom: What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, especially when customers aren’t sure how complex their request is.
Here’s the basic difference:
- An extension switch is a variation of something we already make. We’re still using existing parts, but with a small change to fit your application like adding a connector or swapping labels. You can think of it as a product line extension.
- A custom switch is a clean-slate design. These builds might need new tooling, custom circuit boards, new labeling, or artwork. They usually take longer, cost more, and require more collaboration because we’re engineering something from scratch.
Both get you exactly what you need; they just take a different path to get there.
Does a Single Change Really Make It “Special”
Yes. One change is all it takes.
There are also no true standard medical models. Every medical product must have its own unique part number to meet traceability and regulatory requirements, which automatically makes each one a custom build.
For example:
- Adding a cable to a model that normally ships without wiring.
- Adding a connector
- A custom label with customer supplied artwork that includes your own branding or part number.
There’s no threshold you have to cross. If it’s not something we already ship as a standard, we treat it differently especially when it comes to production, documentation, and support.
Why It Matters
Knowing what qualifies as “special” helps set the right expectations. It affects how we process your order, how long it might take, and how we support it after it ships.
It also helps avoid overcomplicating things. If a catalog model already works for your setup, great you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. But if even one element doesn’t fit, calling it out early can help us guide you in the right direction.
Not sure if your request would make something special or custom? Just ask. Sometimes it’s a quick fix, sometimes it’s a longer process, but either way, we’ll help you figure it out.
Date Uploaded 10/09/25
In collaboration with Christian Smutnick (Applications Engineer) & James Carlone (VP of Sales)
Custom Footswitches
Linemaster’s custom footswitches are designed to meet specific user requirements, offering a range of features such as various pedal configurations, wired and wireless options, and customizable LED indicators. These custom footswitches provide reliable, durable solutions tailored to enhance functionality in diverse applications.
