Dual in-line package (DIP) switches are electronic packages that consist of a series of tiny switches. DIP switches can be normally open, normally closed, or three stage. A normally open (NO) switch has contacts that are open or disconnected in their unactuated (normal) position. A normally closed (NC) switch has contacts that are closed or connected in their unactuated (normal) position. A three stage switch has three positions (e.g. ON - OFF - ON).
Check out the following link for default Dip Switch setting on Catalyst 6500 Series Switches :
http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/hw/switches/ps708/module_installation_and_configuration_guides_chapter09186a00805f49ef.htm
