Fan switches

[doglet]

I was thinking about adding a couple of switches to my case to control a couple of fans in my computer. I was thinking about some illuminated toggle type switches similar to what you might find in an auto accessories store.
These switches are rated at 12VDC 16A. Do you think these would be okay to use. Do I need to ground them...if so where to.

Thanks in advance.

[Roy]

Automotive switches are supremely suitable for your purpose. Most fans draw much less than 1A. A simple single-pole, single-throw (SPST) type ~ it is either open (OFF) or closed (ON) ~ will work.

Connect the +12VDC (yellow) to one lug of the switch, connect the fan and one wire from the lamp to the other. Then run a wire from the other side of the lamp, and the fan to Ground (black).

If the switch has three lugs (SPDT), connect the +12 to the middle lug. Connect the fan and lamp to one of the others and try it to see which switch position is ON.