What does the standby symbol on power switches really mean?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the meaning of the standby symbol found on power switches, exploring its intended function and the variations in its application across different devices. Participants examine the implications of the symbol in relation to power states such as standby and off, as well as the standards that govern its use.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the standby symbol indicates a sleep mode or low power state, suggesting that it does not fully disconnect the device from power.
  • Another participant interprets the symbol as an on/off indicator, reflecting a combination of the numbers 0 and 1, and relates it to their experience with a Samsung TV where standby is seen as a minimal off state.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that the symbol resembles an old type of switch, comparing it to outdated icons like the diskette used for save buttons.
  • Several participants reference a Wikipedia article to support their claims about the symbol's meaning and standards.
  • One participant emphasizes that if manufacturers disregard established standards, the fault lies with them rather than the symbol itself.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing interpretations of the standby symbol, with no consensus on its meaning or application. Some argue it signifies a low power state, while others view it as an on/off switch. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of manufacturer practices on the symbol's intended meaning.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference standards and definitions related to the standby symbol, indicating potential limitations in understanding due to varying interpretations and manufacturer implementations.

dlgoff
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TL;DR
I don't like this symbol and was wondering what others think.
You see this symbol on power switches, but what does it really mean?

IEC5009_Symbol.png


From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_symbol,

... the standby symbol (line partially within a broken circle), indicates a sleep mode or low power state. The switch does not fully disconnect the device from its power supply. This may appear on a toggle switch opposite a power on symbol, alone on a pushbutton that places the device into a standby state, or alone on a button that switches between on and standby.

But the switches that I've seen the symbol on doesn't cause a "sleep mode" but powers the device on and off.

... Grrr
 
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I’ve always taken it to be an on/off symbol, a combination of a 0 and a 1.

Our Samsung TV uses it for on/standby, where standby is as ‘off’ as you can get without unplugging the thing. Maybe your confusion/annoyance lies with the modern melding of ‘off’ and ‘standby’. We can no longer wait that extra time for full boot-up, and must have our TVs at the beck and call of the remote control.
 
I always thought it is an old type switch seen from the top.

DPDT-CO+Toggle+Switch+20+Amps_L.jpg


Doesn't make much sense now, something like diskette used for save buttons.
 
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darth boozer said:
Yes boozer. That's from where I found the quote:

"... the standby symbol (line partially within a broken circle), indicates a sleep mode or low power state. The switch does not fully disconnect the device from its power supply. This may appear on a toggle switch opposite a power on symbol, alone on a pushbutton that places the device into a standby state, or alone on a button that switches between on and standby."
 
dlgoff said:
Yes boozer. That's from where I found the quote:

"... the standby symbol (line partially within a broken circle), indicates a sleep mode or low power state. The switch does not fully disconnect the device from its power supply. This may appear on a toggle switch opposite a power on symbol, alone on a pushbutton that places the device into a standby state, or alone on a button that switches between on and standby."
The key word is "Standards". If manufacturers choose to ignore the standards then they are to blame, not the symbol.
 
darth boozer said:
The key word is "Standards". If manufacturers choose to ignore the standards then they are to blame, not the symbol.
Yes. See @DrClaude's video about the symbol and the IEC at time 5:28.
 

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