A switch system capable of being automatically configured and used with any electrical system, particularly vehicle electrical systems, having an operator-activated control and an electrical device. This switch system generally includes an electro-mechanical switch and a switch module. Upon activation of an operator-activated control, such as a turn signal lever, the electro-mechanical switch sends an electrical activation signal to the switch module. The switch module uses an electrical identification signal, also obtained from the electro-mechanical switch, and a look-up table to convert the activation signal into an electronic control message. The electronic control message is then used to control a corresponding electrical device, such as a turn signal lamp. A particular electro-mechanical switch embodiment providing error detecting capabilities is also shown.