Frequently Asked Questions / Tech NHRA 2025

Questions: NHRA Article – June 2025

Questions: Can your Rocker button Panels work with 16-volt batteries?

Yes, they are compatible. However, please note that the lighted switches may have a reduced lifespan due to the higher voltage of a 16V battery.

Questions: Are Flat Touch Controls 16-Volt Compatible?

Absolutely! Our Flat Touch Controls work perfectly with 16-volt battery systems. To ensure proper operation, there’s a small adjustment you’ll need to make:

On the relay board, you’ll find a jumper (a tiny connector piece) that allows you to select between 12V and 16V settings. To use a 16-volt battery, simply move the jumper to the 16V position.

This adjustment helps the system recognize and handle the increased voltage correctly, ensuring smooth, reliable performance.

If you need any help locating the jumper or switching it over, feel free to contact us—we’re always happy to help!

Some switches on my flat touch panel aren’t working properly — a few won’t turn on, and others shut off when I switch new ones on. What’s going on?

No worries — this issue is usually easy to fix! Most of the time, this happens because either the battery is weak or the 12V/16V jumper settings are not correctly configured. Here’s what you should check:

1. Jumper Settings:
   First, take a look at the 12V/16V jumper on your panel. If you have a 12-switch panel, there will be two jumpers you need to inspect. Make sure they are set correctly for the type of battery you’re using — 12V or 16V. An incorrect jumper position can cause unpredictable behavior with the switches.
2. Battery Condition:
   Even if your battery shows the right voltage when you’re just checking it with no load, that doesn’t always mean it’s strong enough. A weak battery can still “look good” on a meter, but when you use it (put it under load), the voltage can drop quickly and cause switches to act up, like turning off when others are switched on.
3. Proper Battery Testing:
   The best way to check your battery’s true health is with a load tester. This tool simulates real-world conditions by applying a load to the battery and seeing if the voltage stays stable. If it sags too much under load, it’s a sign the battery needs charging — or possibly replacing.

In short:

Double-check your jumper settings and make sure your battery is fully charged and in good health. These simple steps usually solve the problem and get your flat touch panel working perfectly again!

Questions: Why does my flat handle panel light up red, but not at all the switches work?

Thanks for reaching out! If your flat touch panel glows red but the switches aren’t working, a few things might be causing the problem:

1. Weak Battery:

A very low battery voltage can cause the panel to behave this way. Be sure your battery is fully charged and in great shape.

2. Incorrect 12V/16V Jumper Setting:

Our panels are designed to work with both 12-volt and 16-volt systems. However, if the jumper setting is incorrect for your battery type, it can lead to operational issues. Make sure the jumper is set correctly for your battery’s voltage.

3. Relay Board Damage (Ribbon Cable Issue):

In some cases, the ribbon cable that connects to the relay board may get damaged. If the insulation on the ribbon wears through and the internal copper conductor touches the car’s chassis (ground), it can cause a short circuit. This short can burn (fuse) a circuit trace on the relay board.

When this happens, the panel will still light up red (because it’s receiving power), but none of the switches will work. How to Check for Relay Board Damage:

• Carefully remove the mounting plate located at the bottom of the relay board.
• Inspect the board for any signs of a burnt or broken circuit trace (a thin line on the board may appear blackened or missing).
• If you find damage, don’t worry! You can send the relay board back to us for repair. We’ll take care of it for you.

Important:
If you’re sending the relay board for repair, please also send the ribbon cable along with it. We’ll inspect the cable to ensure it’s safe to reuse. Often, if the ribbon cable is the source of the problem, it will need replacement to prevent future issues.

A Helpful Tip About Ribbon Cable Installation:

We highly suggest avoiding wire ties (zip ties) to secure the ribbon cable. Over time, the vibration from your vehicle can cause the sharp edges of the wire ties to slowly cut through the cable’s insulation, leading to shorts.

Instead, always use the flat adhesive clips and Velcro straps we provide with your panel. They hold the ribbon cable safely without causing any damage.

If you need extra Velcro ribbon straps, you can easily purchase more [HERE].

Questions: The Red Light on the Ignition Switch of My Rocker Switch Panel Won’t Light Up – What Should I Do?

No worries — let’s walk through it together! The first thing you’ll want to check is the ground connection. Specifically, take a look at Terminal #4 on the back of your ignition switch. This terminal is responsible for grounding the internal light.

If Terminal #4 isn’t securely connected to a good, clean ground, the red light simply won’t turn on. Make sure the wire is firmly attached and that the grounding point is free of rust, paint, or any debris that could interfere with the connection.

If everything looks good with the ground and the light still isn’t coming on, then it’s likely that the switch itself may be faulty. In that case, you’ll need to replace the ignition switch to get the light working again.

Good news: Replacement switches are available — click here to grab one and have your panel working like new in no time!

Questions: Why isn’t my flat touch switch panel lighting up?

No worries — let’s walk through a few quick things to check!
First, make sure that the GND (ground) terminal on the relay board is properly connected to a solid chassis ground. (If you’re using a 12-switch panel, keep in mind there are two GND terminals that need to be grounded.)

Next, take a look at the ribbon cable connection. The ribbon cable must be plugged squarely into the connector on the relay board. Sometimes, it’s easy to accidentally plug it in just slightly off to the left or right, which can leave a couple of pins hanging out, and that can cause the panel not to light up.

Here’s a quick fix:
👉 Unplug the ribbon cable carefully.
👉 Then, plug it back in while making sure that all the pins are perfectly centered inside the connector.

If you check both the ground and the ribbon cable and everything is seated properly, your switch panel should light up as expected!

More questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re happy to help you get it working!

Questions: Can I get a ground output from a relay on the Flat Touch Relay Board?

Absolutely! You can easily set up a relay to output ground instead of battery positive (+) on the Flat Touch Relay Board. Here’s how you can do it:

First, remove the fuse for the relay you want to modify. Once the fuse is removed, you’ll see two open ¼” female terminals where the fuse used to sit. Next, take a wire that is properly grounded and insert it into the fuse clip that’s furthest away from the center of the board.

Now, when you activate that relay, instead of sending out a positive (+) battery voltage like it normally would, it will send out a ground.

This method is handy if you’re powering accessories or devices that are triggered by ground instead of positive voltage. Just be sure your wiring is secure and your ground connection is solid for best performance!

If you have any other questions or need help setting up your panel, we’re always happy to assist!

Questions: What is the warranty on Flat Touch Systems?

We’re committed to delivering top-quality products and proudly back them with full confidence. All Flat Touch Systems currently in production come with a lifetime warranty. This warranty is our promise to you that your system will be free from any defects in materials or workmanship for as long as you own it.

However, please note that the warranty does not cover any damage caused by misuse, abuse, accidents, or unauthorized modifications. If any part of the switch panel, relay board, or associated components is altered or tampered with, the lifetime warranty will be void. If you ever run into any issues, we’re always here to help.

If you believe you have a warranty claim or just have questions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our team is happy to guide you through the process and ensure you’re taken care of quickly and fairly.

Questions: Do I have to use switch #1 for the Starter?

On 12-volt cars, you have complete flexibility! You can use any switch for the Starter function. All you need to do is flip the corresponding programming dip switch to the momentary position, and you’re good to go.

However, for 16-volt cars, it’s a little different — and important to follow for the best performance. In 16V setups, switch #1 should only be used for momentary operations like starting the engine or activating a purge. This is because 16V systems can place extra stress on the components, and switch #1 is specially designed to handle momentary, high-draw actions under those conditions.

Important:
If you’re running a 16V system, do not use switch #1 for standard on/off operations (like lights or accessories that stay on). Using it that way could reduce the life of the switch or cause performance issues over time.

In short:

• 12V cars — Use any switch you like for the Starter by setting it to momentary.
• 16V cars — Always use switch #1 for momentary actions only (like the Starter or Purge) — not for regular on/off uses.

If you have any other questions or need help setting up your panel, we’re always happy to assist!

Questions: How do I turn off the lights on my flat touch switch panel? The lights stay on all the time.

1. Great question! Flat touch switch panels are specially crafted for race cars, where a master battery disconnect switch is usually installed. With the master disconnect switch turned on, the switch panel stays illuminated and fully operational. However, if you’d like to turn off the switch panel lights without shutting off the entire master disconnect switch, here’s a simple solution: Remove the jumper from the 12V/16V jumper terminal, and you can discard it.
2. Next, you’ll need to connect a switched 18-gauge 12V wire from a factory key switch, toggle switch, or similar switch to the terminal marked “12V” (use the terminal marked “16V” for 16V setups).
3. When this switched wire is energized (turned on), the switch panel will light up and work as usual.
4. When power is turned off to this wire, the switch panel lights will go off, and the panel will no longer be functional.

Important: For safety, we recommend protecting this switched wire with a 5-amp fuse. Also, if you’re wiring switch #1 this way, it’s best used for the starter or another momentary function.

Questions: Can I use a 40-amp fuse on flat touch relay boards?

Yes, you can safely use a 40-amp fuse with the flat touch relay boards, as the relays are designed to handle up to 40 Amps without any issues. However, it’s important to make sure that you also adjust the wiring for safety and optimal performance.

If you’re switching from the provided 30-amp fuse to a 40-amp fuse, it’s highly recommended to upgrade the wire size to a 12-gauge wire to handle the increased current safely.

Using the correct wire size helps prevent overheating, ensures the system functions properly, and protects your components from potential damage.

Remember, proper wiring and fusing are essential to maintain the longevity and efficiency of your system! If you’re ever unsure, it’s a good idea to consult with an expert to ensure everything is set up safely.

Questions: Are Flat Touch Panels Waterproof or Weather-Resistant?

Our Flat Touch Panels are designed to be both weather-resistant and water-resistant to withstand a variety of environmental conditions.

While they are not completely waterproof, they feature IP-rated protection to prevent damage from moisture, dust, and light splashes. This makes them a great choice for use in environments where exposure to the elements is expected, such as in outdoor or vehicle applications.

That said, it’s important to note that prolonged exposure to heavy rain or submersion in water may affect the functionality of the touch panel. To ensure longevity and optimal performance, we recommend keeping the panel protected from extreme conditions whenever possible.

If you need a product for particularly harsh environments, we offer upgraded models with higher protection ratings. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or would like personalized recommendations.

 

Questions: Can the ARC-12000 Series panels be used in marine or off-road applications?

The ARC-12000 Series panels are designed for motorsport environments. While they offer excellent durability, they are not rated as fully waterproof. For marine or extreme off-road use, additional sealing or protection is recommended.

Are Flat Touch Panels Waterproof or Weather-Resistant?

Absolutely! Our Flat Touch Panels are built to withstand the elements, offering both weather and water resistance. They are built to withstand exposure to the elements, making them perfect for outdoor and harsh environments use. While they can handle light splashes of water and some moisture, it’s important to note that they are not fully waterproof.

We recommend that you avoid submerging the panels in water or exposing them to direct heavy rainfall for extended periods. With proper care and installation in a protected area, our Flat Touch Panels will perform reliably, even in outdoor conditions.

Always check the product’s specifications for detailed ratings, such as IP (Ingress Protection) levels, to ensure they meet your specific needs.

If you’re planning to install them in a location with high humidity or frequent exposure to rain, consider additional protection like covers or enclosures to ensure their longevity.

Questions: How do I troubleshoot if a single switch is not activating its relay?

If you’re having trouble with a single switch not activating its relay, don’t worry—this is a common issue that can usually be fixed with a few simple steps. Here’s a friendly troubleshooting guide to help you get back on track:

• Check the Power Source:

  Start by ensuring the power source to your system is working properly. If the power supply is disconnected or faulty, the switch won’t be able to activate the relay. Make sure the battery or power source is fully charged and that all connections are secure.

• Inspect the Switch:

• The switch might be faulty. Please take a moment to check for any visible damage or signs of wear. If the switch is lit, verify that the light is functioning properly, as a burnt-out light can sometimes indicate a problem. You can test the switch with a multimeter to see if it’s completing the circuit when pressed.

• Examine the Relay Connections:

  The relay could be the issue as well. Ensure that the relay is wired correctly and that all terminals are clean and securely connected. Loose or corroded connections can prevent the relay from receiving the signal from the switch. Sometimes, relays can also wear out over time, so consider testing it with a different relay to see if that resolves the problem.

• Test the Switch and Relay Together:

  If the switch and relay seem fine individually, but still aren’t working together, try bypassing the switch to directly activate the relay. If the relay turns on, the problem is probably with the switch or its wiring. If the relay doesn’t activate, the problem might lie with the relay itself or the wiring in the circuit.

• Check the Wiring and Fuses:

  Check the wiring that links both the switch and the relay. Ensure that there are no short circuits, damaged wires, or blown fuses. A blown fuse could prevent the relay from receiving power, and a damaged wire could interrupt the signal.

• Test with a Multimeter:

  A multimeter is an essential instrument for troubleshooting electrical problems. Test the voltage at both the switch and the relay to make sure the proper signal is being sent through the circuit when the switch is pressed.

• Consider the Relay’s Load Rating:

  If you’re switching a large load, check the relay’s specifications to ensure it’s rated to handle the current. An undersized relay may not activate properly if the load exceeds its capacity.

• Look for Interference or Faulty Grounding:

  Finally, check for any electrical interference or grounding issues that could be affecting the system. A poor ground connection can prevent the switch from activating the relay, so make sure all ground wires are properly connected and free of corrosion.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and fix the issue with your switch and relay. If you’re still having trouble, consider consulting the manufacturer’s manual for more specific guidance or reaching out to a professional for assistance.

Questions: What is the recommended fuse size for panel power input?

When it comes to choosing the right fuse size for your panel power input, it’s important to ensure that your fuse can protect the electrical components of your panel while allowing enough current to flow for normal operation.

The recommended fuse size typically depends on the specific electrical requirements of the panel. In general, most panels with lighted switches and typical accessories will require a fuse rated between 10A to 20A.

For example, if your panel draws around 10 amps of current, using a 15A fuse provides a good balance, offering protection against short circuits or overcurrent situations, while still supporting normal operation.

It’s also essential to match the fuse with the wire size to avoid potential overheating or damage. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific panel model to determine the exact fuse rating, as using the wrong size could lead to malfunctions or even damage to the system.

In addition, remember that slow-blow fuses are often recommended for applications where short bursts of higher current may occur (such as during startup or initial power-up), while fast-acting fuses work better in sensitive systems that need immediate protection against overcurrent.

In short, selecting the proper fuse size is crucial for both safety and reliability, so always refer to the specific recommendations provided for your equipment!

Questions: What is the maximum amperage supported by each switch output?

Our Rocker Switch Panels are designed with both performance and safety in mind. Each switch output can support a maximum of 20 amps. This ensures that the panel can handle most common electrical loads found in automotive, marine, and other heavy-duty applications. However, it’s important to consider that the actual current your switches can safely handle depends on factors like the quality of wiring, fuse ratings, and overall system design.

For the best performance, we recommend ensuring that your wiring and components are rated for the same or higher amperage to avoid any potential overloads. If you’re unsure about your specific needs, feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to help guide you through the process to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely!

Questions: Can I install additional switches or customize the existing panel layout?

Can I install additional switches or customize the existing panel layout? Absolutely! Our Rocker Switch Panels are designed with flexibility in mind. You can install additional switches or customize the layout to fit your specific needs. Whether you’re enhancing features or adjusting the existing setup, the process is simple and easy to follow.

If you’re adding switches, you’ll just need to make sure you have the correct size and wiring to support them. For a more personalized touch, many panels allow you to swap out switches or adjust their placement based on your setup.

If you’re not sure how to go about customizing the layout, we recommend consulting with a professional for wiring to ensure everything works smoothly. But don’t worry—whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a pro, our panels are designed to make customization easy and hassle-free.

Feel free to reach out if you need any questions, guidance, or tips on making the most of your panel setup!

 

Questions: Which Relays Are Used In Control Panels?

Control panels commonly utilize electromechanical relays, solid-state relays (SSRs), and time delay relays.

Electromechanical relays are budget-friendly and perfect for everyday applications, as they rely on physical contacts to switch circuits. SSRs, on the other hand, are durable and offer fast, silent operation with no moving parts, making them great for high-frequency applications.

Time delay relays are essential when a specific delay is needed before activating circuits, making them ideal for systems such as HVAC. Each relay type plays a crucial role in maintaining safe and efficient operation within control panels.

Questions: How can I dim the LED lights on the Flat Touch Switch Panel?

To dim the LED lights on the Flat Touch Switch Panel, simply adjust the brightness settings using the touch controls. If your model has a dimming feature, you can hold down the touchpad for a few seconds to reduce the brightness.

Questions: My flat touch panel lights up red, but none of the switches work.

If the panel lights up red but the switches don’t function, it usually indicates a missing ground, blown fuse, or relay wiring issue.

Questions: The red light on my rocker switch panel’s ignition switch won’t illuminate.

Check the ignition switch’s ground connection and confirm voltage input. Inspect associated fuses as well.

Questions: Is the ARC-12000 panel CAN bus compatible?

No, the ARC-12000 Series operates on standard analog circuits and does not directly integrate with CAN bus networks.