Abstract: A speed switch for an elevator system which obtains its information from distance pulses generated in response to car travel. The reference speed setting of the switch is a function of the desired predetermined speed at which the switch is to operate, the number of distance pulses produced per inch of car travel, and the time required by a counter to count to a predetermined value. This arrangement facilitates the selection of the reference speed setting of the speed switch, such as by using a thumb switch. An emergency terminal stopping arrangement using the speed switch is also disclosed, as is a new and improved elevator system in which the normal slow-down speed pattern and emergency terminal stop functions are both resposive to distance pulses produced in response to car movement, enabling a terminal slow-down speed pattern to be initiated by circuitry independent of the distance pulses, such as via a notched terminal slow-down blade adjacent to each terminal floor.