Bulldog 3 Buttons - Latching vs Non-Latching
Latching vs. Non-Latching Models
The Polara Bulldog 3 series pedestrian push button is available in both latching and non-latching versions. Understanding the difference between these options is important when selecting the appropriate button for a pedestrian crossing installation.
If your agency follows current PROWAG guidance, if the button has a light, it is required to latch on.
See below table for applicable model numbers.
| Model | Latching LED | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BDL3 | Yes | Bulldog 3 Series Push Button |
| BDSP-010 | N/A | Bulldog 3 Series Push Button without LED |
| BDSP-011 | N/A | Bulldog 3 Series Push Button without LED for TS1 Cabinets |
| BDSP-014 | No | Bulldog 3 Series Push Button for TS1 Cabinets |
What Does "Latching" Mean?
In a Bulldog3 push button, the term latching refers specifically to the behavior of the button's LED indicator.
When a pedestrian presses a latching button, the LED remains illuminated after the button press has been registered. This visual indication confirms to the pedestrian that their call has been received and is waiting to be processed. The light stays on until the pedestrian phase is serviced by the traffic controller and the phase enters a Walk cycle.
Latching LEDs can improve user confidence by providing a clear visual acknowledgment that the crossing request has been accepted.
What Is a Non-Latching Button?
With a non-latching Bulddog3 button, the LED only illuminates during the actual button press. Once the button is released, the LED turns off even though the pedestrian call has been successfully registered by the traffic signal controller.
The pedestrian request is still active; however, there is no continuous visual indication to show that the call is waiting to be serviced.
Why Choose a Latching Button?
Latching operation offers several benefits:
- Provides visual confirmation that a pedestrian call has been received
- Reduces repeated button presses from pedestrians unsure whether the button worked
- Enhances user confidence at signalized intersections
- Supports accessibility goals by offering additional feedback to pedestrians
Because of these advantages, latching buttons are commonly used at busy intersections, locations with longer wait times, and installations where agencies want to improve pedestrian experience.
Controller Requirements
A latching button must be paired with a compatible control unit.
Latching button models require one of the following control units:
- PBCU (Push Button Control Unit - AC Version)
- PBCU-DC (Push Button Control Unit - DC Version)
- LPBCU (Latching Push Button Control Unit)
- LPBCU2 (Latching Push Button Control Unit - V2)
These control units provide the necessary functionality to support the latching LED operation.
Non-latching Bulldog 3 buttons do not require latching-capable control units and can be used in standard pedestrian button applications where continuous LED indication is not needed.