keepcalculator

06 Numbers and Powers

Arc Raiders First Power Switch Location

Card No. 06·14587 · Updated · Standard formula, shown below

Average speed 10.00 m/min
Speed in km/h
0.60 km/h
Result
Time spent
10 min
You entered
Distance
100 m
You entered
You enter
Time spent, Distance
You get
Average speed, Speed in km/h
Rounding
2 dp

The first Power Switch in Arc Raiders is located in the starting area of the tutorial mission, specifically on the wall of the first building you are directed to enter after the initial crash sequence. Interact with it to restore power to the building’s elevator, which is required to progress to the next objective. This guide explains the exact spot, why it matters, and what to do if you miss it.

Formula

The calculator above works out your average movement speed in meters per minute and converts it to kilometers per hour. The formula is:

Speed (m/min) = Distance (m) ÷ Time (min)

Speed (km/h) = (Distance (m) ÷ (Time (min) ÷ 60)) ÷ 1000

Variables:

  • t – time in minutes (input)
  • d – distance in meters (input)
  • Speed (m/min) – output, meters per minute
  • Speed (km/h) – output, kilometers per hour

Worked Example

Using the default values: t = 10 minutes, d = 100 meters.

  1. Speed (m/min) = 100 ÷ 10 = 10 m/min
  2. Convert to km/h: (100 ÷ (10 ÷ 60)) ÷ 1000 = (100 ÷ 0.1667) ÷ 1000 = 600 ÷ 1000 = 0.6 km/h

The calculator shows 10 m/min and 0.6 km/h.

Where Exactly Is the First Power Switch?

In the opening mission, after the crash, you follow a linear path through a small settlement. The first Power Switch is on the exterior wall of a two-story building, just to the left of the main entrance. It appears as a small grey box with a red lever. The game highlights it with a white outline when you are near, and the objective marker points to the door, not the switch itself.

Once you pull the lever, the building’s interior lights come on and the elevator activates. You must then use that elevator to reach the upper floor and continue the story.

Why It’s Easy to Miss

Many players walk past the switch because the objective marker is on the door, and the switch is tucked behind a stack of crates on the left side. Also, the switch does not glow or pulse until you are within about two meters. If you are playing with high brightness, the red lever can blend into the rusty wall.

Another reason: the tutorial does not explicitly tell you to look for a switch. It says “Restore power” but does not show a waypoint on the switch itself. So players often circle the building looking for a generator or a fuse box.

What to Do If You Can’t Find It

If you are stuck, try these steps:

  • Check the left side of the building’s main entrance, behind the crates.
  • Look for a white outline that appears when you are close.
  • Walk along the entire perimeter of the building – the switch is on the wall, not on the roof.
  • If you still can’t see it, restart the mission. The switch always spawns in the same spot.
  • Make sure you have not already pulled it – if the elevator is working, you already did it.

There is no alternative switch; the elevator only works after you pull this one.

Common Misconceptions

Some players believe the switch is random or that it moves between playthroughs. It does not – it is always in the same location in the tutorial. Others think you need a tool to activate it, but no – you just walk up and press the interact button. The switch does not require any keycard or item.

Another misconception: that the power switch is the same as the generator you see later in the mission. That generator is for a different objective. The first switch is purely for the elevator.

Tips for New Players

When you first start, take a moment to explore the settlement before moving on. The game is designed to teach you basic mechanics, and the power switch is part of that. Look for interactive objects that have a white outline – those are always important. Also, the game’s audio cue (a soft hum) plays when you are near the switch, so listen carefully.

If you are playing with friends, only one person needs to pull the switch. Everyone else can wait by the elevator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the first power switch always in the same place?

Yes, it is always on the left wall of the first building, behind the crates. The game does not randomize it.

What happens if I skip the switch?

You cannot progress. The elevator will not work, and the door to the next area stays locked. You have to go back and pull it.

Can I use the switch after the mission?

No, the tutorial area is not accessible after you complete the mission. The switch is only for that mission.

Do I need a tool or key to activate it?

No, just walk up and press the interact button (default E on PC).

Why is the switch not highlighted?

The highlight only appears when you are very close. If you are far away, it looks like a normal wall object. Use the objective marker on the door as a reference.

Is there a second switch in the same building?

No, there is only one switch in that building. The generator you find later is a different objective.

Related

Formula used
in t | Time spent | min | 10 | 0
in d | Distance | m | 100 | 0
out speed | Average speed | m/min | d / t | 2
out kph | Speed in km/h | km/h | (d / (t / 60)) / 1000 | 2

Each line is one input (in, sel, list) or one result (out: label, unit, formula, decimals). How the calculators work

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.

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