DIP Switch Calculator

Convert a decimal value into ON/OFF switch positions, or toggle the switches to read their value. This tool uses standard binary weighting: SW1 = 1, SW2 = 2, SW3 = 4, and so on.

Number of binary switches

Decimal valueEnter a whole number from 0 to 255.

Decimal value: 1

Binary number (highest bit on the left): 00000001

Physical switch order (SW1 first): 10000000

ON switches: SW1

Select a switch with a mouse, touch, or keyboard. ON means its displayed value is included in the total.

Check the device manual: this is a binary converter. It does not select device modes, guarantee a valid equipment address, or determine which direction is physically ON.

How to read the result

Choose the number of switches and enter a whole number within the displayed range. Add the values of the switches marked ON to verify the result. All other switches should be OFF in this binary representation.

The binary number runs from the highest bit to the lowest bit. The physical switch-order string runs from SW1 upward. These strings can look reversed even though they represent the same setting. Match switch numbers and the printed ON mark on your device, rather than copying the screen orientation.

Switch values and worked examples

Standard binary weights
Switch	SW1	SW2	SW3	SW4	SW5	SW6	SW7	SW8	SW9	SW10	SW11	SW12
Value	1	2	4	8	16	32	64	128	256	512	1024	2048

Value 5 with eight switches: 1 + 4 = 5. Turn on SW1 and SW3. The binary number is 00000101; physical SW1-first order is 10100000.

Value 173 with nine switches: 128 + 32 + 8 + 4 + 1 = 173. Turn on SW8, SW6, SW4, SW3, and SW1. The binary number is 010101101.

Choose a tool for your task

DMX DIP switches: convert start addresses 1–511 DMX patch planner: allocate fixture channel ranges DMX universe converter: convert an absolute channel number BACnet MS/TP calculator: seven-bit MAC address settings for supported controllers Modbus address calculator: binary values for 1–247 HVAC tool: estimate airflow and record manual settings Garage door tool: record compatible fixed-code patterns

Device-specific limits matter

N binary switches have 2^N patterns, representing 0 through 2^N − 1. That mathematical range is not a promise that every pattern is a valid device address. Some positions control modes; some devices reserve zero or use an offset.

DMX: eight address bits stop at 255. Nine bits reach 511 using direct binary weighting. DMX uses start addresses 1–512, but a nine-switch device may handle address 512 differently or not offer it. Switch 10 may control a mode. Use the fixture manual and its channel footprint.

Fire alarms and HVAC: layouts vary by product. For example, the Simplex TrueAlert ES appliance documented below uses an eight-position bank, with position 8 selecting ALARM or ALERT operation. Do not treat all eight positions as address bits for that appliance.

Frequently asked questions

Does ON always mean binary 1 on my device?

Only when the device uses that convention. A manufacturer can use inverted logic, a reserved mode, or another coding system. This tool assumes ON adds the displayed binary weight.

Why does the binary number look reversed?

Binary notation puts the highest bit on the left. Many switch banks number their lowest bit as SW1. We display both orders and label them separately.

Can I use this to set a DMX address of 512?

Ten mathematical bits can represent 512, but a tenth switch on a fixture may be a mode control. Do not assume it has a value of 512. Follow the device manual for that address.

Should I turn off equipment before changing switches?

Follow the manufacturer’s procedure. Whether a setting is read at startup, continuously, or after a reset depends on the device. For fire alarms and other installed control systems, follow the approved service procedure.

How can I report an incorrect result?

Use our Contact page and include the calculator URL, inputs, expected result, and device model or manual reference.