Overview

The Vimar Idea 16016 is a 2-pole, 1-way rocker switch rated 16 AX at 250 V~ for the Vimar IDEA modular range. It has an IP40 rating for dry, protected interior locations and it is commonly used for AC switching where you want a clean, flush-mounted rocker on a finished panel.

On boats, this style of switch is typically fitted in cabins, nav stations, and electrical consoles that stay out of direct spray and washdowns. It is offered in Gray or Ivory, with or without an indicator, so you can match the faceplate and decide whether you want a visible reference point in low light. For self-ballasted lamps, observe the 200 W maximum.

Key features

• 2-pole switching with a 1-way rocker action for AC circuits where both conductors are switched at the control point
• 16 AX, 250 V~ rating suited to lighting loads that can have higher inrush than simple resistive loads
• IP40 protection level for interior panels and bulkheads that stay dry
• IDEA modular format in a 1-module size (24.80 mm wide, 50.10 mm high) for consistent alignment in multi-gang frames
• Flush-mount installation with engage (snap) fastening for standard IDEA supports and cover frames
• Screwed terminal connections for secure wiring terminations inside a panel
• Variant options for Color (Gray or Ivory) and Indicator (with or without)
• Maximum 200 W for self-ballasted lamps

Variants

This switch is offered in multiple configurations to match your panel finish and whether you want an indicator on the rocker.

Across the range, the functional format remains a 2-pole, 1-way, 16 AX, 250 V~ IDEA modular switch. The options that vary are the face color and the presence of an indicator.

• VM16016: Color Gray, No Indicator. A plain rocker that keeps the panel look clean and avoids any visible glow at night.
• VM16016.B: Color Ivory, No Indicator. The same basic rocker function in a lighter face color for matching Ivory installations.
• VM16016.F: Color Gray, With Indicator. The indicator gives you a quick visual reference in low light, useful when moving through the cabin at night.
• VM16016.F.B: Color Ivory, With Indicator. Combines the lighter face color with an indicator for the same day-to-day switching function.

Compatibility and fit

This is a 1-module mechanism intended for Vimar IDEA modular supports, frames, and cover plates. It is a good fit when the vessel already uses IDEA components and you want a matching switch body behind the finished faceplate.

Panel space planning is straightforward because the module footprint stays consistent, but always confirm rear clearance behind the mounting location. The non-indicator mechanism depth is about 46.00 mm with a built-in depth around 32.50 mm, and some configurations can differ.

Installation and wiring

The switch mounts flush and locks in with a snap fastening into the correct IDEA support. Wiring lands on screwed terminals, which works well for tidy terminations inside a protected console or cabin switch panel.

Because this is a 250 V~ AC switch, it belongs in your vessel’s AC distribution scheme, not on typical 12 V or 24 V DC house circuits. Wire it in line with how your boat handles conductor switching and isolation on the AC side, and make sure the upstream protection and conductor sizing match the circuit being controlled.

Use cases on board

Typical onboard uses include switching cabin lighting circuits, controlling AC-fed accessories in an interior console, or adding a matching control point in an IDEA-fitted panel. Indicator versions are helpful where you want to locate the switch quickly in low ambient light without adding a separate locator lamp.

This product is a strong match for owners and builders standardizing on Vimar IDEA modules who need a 2-pole switch format for an AC branch circuit in a dry interior location.

Maintenance and care

Keep the switch out of direct spray and away from wet lockers or exterior helm positions, since IP40 is not a washdown rating. For cleaning, wipe the rocker and faceplate with a lightly damp cloth and avoid aggressive solvents that can haze or soften thermoplastic surfaces.