If they’re talking about the Jewish observance of the sabbath, it’s my understanding that they’re not allowed to turn on an electronic (or mechanical?) device n

If they’re talking about the Jewish observance of the sabbath, it’s my understanding that they’re not allowed to turn on an electronic (or mechanical?) device nor turn one off during the sabbath itself. Obvious exceptions are made for such things as life-saving situations, the practice of medicine, etc.