Abstract: A single or multiple pole key switch having a molded plastic housing formed with snap-in devices for mounting connection with a support and having a key stem reciprocatingly movable through one wall of the housing and having multiple guide surfaces thereon cooperating with corresponding surfaces of said housing for minimizing rotation, wobble and binding of the key stem in operation. The lower end of the key stem engages a return spring and is provided with at least one lateral cavity for carrying at least one contact spring for cooperation with stationary contacts mounted on a terminal block mounted in opposing adjacency thereto. A detent bar is provided on the terminal block to radially deflect the contact spring during key stem operation which provides the operator with "feel" of the switch action and produces an adjustable hysteresis or differential between the make and break of the contacts to avoid unwanted contact opening or closure and afford dampened make and break contact action.

Abstract: An improved manually actuatable electric keyboard switch and retainer capable of being easily removed and reoriented or replaced to provide a different function.

Abstract: A manually actuable keyboard switch is provided having two opposite relieved openings in its base portion so that when it is inserted into an aperture in a keyboard switch retainer having two tabs outwardly extending and depending from opposite sidewalls of the aperture, the tabs spring into their original positions and within said relieved openings to hold said keyboard switch therein.