Setup switches

Provided by the ASK Keyboard Dictionary

Aka/also known as: setup DIP switches, setup switch bank

Setup switches are usually a possible bank of DIP switches on the underside of or inside a top-facing compartment on a terminal or console keyboard that gives the operator some easy access to hard-code some settings relating to the keyboard and/or other peripherals. They are often associated with keyboard ID purposes, but depending on the exact terminal or console, they can also or either be used for setting the terminal's audible alarm volume, specifying a possible printer, and how many lines per inch said printer should print. Setup switches may also be used in tandem with or as a replacement for a simple internal jumper header on the keyboard's controller card intended for the same or similar purpose. Keyboards with setup switches may also have a sticker near them where one could indicate what the typical configuration should be by marking the relevant on (I)/off (O) boxes under the switch position number.

Sources

ASK. Admiral Shark's Keyboards original content. License/note: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.