kind of stuck on which one, what do YOU think is better. switch or loop key
btw is this reliable http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/2-Pcs-x-ON-OFF-2-Position-SPST-2-Pin-Snap-in-Rocker-Switch-16A-250V-20A-125V-AC-/221602299803?hash=item339886bf9b:g:zjEAAOSwcF9UYcjG
Use a loop key, it’s very convenient and easy to use
That switch is for AC, you need one for DC
That switch would not work. It would cause a spark every time you turn on the circuit and eventually wear down the switch until it does not work. A loop key is a bit harder to do, but the cheapest most reliable way to turn on and off your skateboard.
cool good to know before i blew my circuit 
i am a noooooooooob
If you use a switch, it would break after 5-10 uses. It stays on if it breaks
how does this one work
Thats an On/Off/On switch, so no it wont work. Its also only 2 amp, so it wont work. You either need…
MEB Power Switch http://miamielectricboards.com/shop-1/120amp-12s-power-switch or Car Audio Circuit Breaker http://www.ebay.com/itm/162119251810?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&var=461081390227&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
A circuit breaker like that is not specifically designed for spark suppression and is generally not recommended
I keep hearing those arguments, but here’s the facts. Its got plenty of amp protection and I’ve been using one for 3 moths with no problems. If it fails, no big. They cost less than 10 bucks and takes 2 mins to change out.
Also, you can use an anti-spark key (xt90).
does the 120 amp switch go just before the vesc and if you look at "Great Scott"s youtube build, he uses a three position switch, how does it work?
So this switch typically goes between the battery and the esc. I looked at “Great Scott’s” build and it looks like he’s using this switch http://www.ebay.com/itm/171907590479?rmvSB=true which won’t work as it’s an AC switch rated for 6A. Since the switch is going to open/close the full circuit it needs to be able to withstand the continuous high current electric skateboards demand, which at a minimum is going to be around 35-40A. I’m guessing the switches that he used in his build probably stopped working. As @mmaner said, your only options is really to use a FET based soft switch like the one linked, a circuit breaker, or a anti-spark loop key.
If you wnat to use a circuit breaker…Get a 100 to 120 amp DC Circuit Breaker, typically called audio circuit breaker. It will go inline on the POS lead between the battery and the ESC.
ill stay with loop key, later might get switch
Any type of mechanical switch like an automotive breaker or toggle switch is going to suffer from high voltage spark because of the rush of current to fill the Esc’s capacitors. A mechanical switch will work but will wear out quickly. There are really only 2 good options here. An electronic switch designed for high DC voltage and current. Or an anti-spark XT90 loop key connector. In my opinion, the loop key will be the least expensive and the most dependable.
Ive been using a “20A/125V AC” switch for the last 2 years (a beefy metal one, not plastic). They’re cheap enough that you can buy a few and replace them when they stop working, but I haven’t had to do that yet. However I have ordered a 100A/48V inline breaker switch and I’m going to give that a shot.
For those of us “solder skill challenged” lol, is anyine sellling anti-spark XT90 loop key connectors pre-built? Have already gone through several softswitch antisparks (they fail in the ON position at least lol), and incorporating XT90 anti spark connectors but would like it all in a loopkey setup. Anyone? Thanks!
Oh this is a big find. Just double checking my understanding - the switch will no longer turn off after it malfunctions. Yes? Thank you!
This is what he was saying I’m pretty sure… the general term is “failed closed” vs “failed open” when some components (capacitors, mosfets etc.) fry they will fail in one of these two ways. If they “fail closed” then the circuit remains “on” or closed loop if they “fail open” then there is a break in the circuit when the component fails (generally better since the component is acting as a fuse but better if there’s a fuse that does it instead).