Types of electrical switches

What are the different types of electronic switches? What is a single pole dual switch? Switch function is defined by the number of poles and throws the switch has. Poles” are individual circuits the switch controls (e.g., a “ 3-pole” switch has three circuits controlled by the same throw).

A light switch opens or closes an electrical current to turn on a light fixture, ceiling fan or similar electrical device. Besides lighting up a room, some light switches incorporate special features, like motion detectors, to make moving around in your home safer and more convenient. From modular touch switches to wall switches , there are different types of switches meant for different applications.

The common light switch used in household wiring is an example of a toggle switch. Most toggle switches will come to rest in any of their lever positions, while others have an internal spring mechanism returning the lever to a certain normal position, allowing for what is called “momentary” operation. The two types of momentary contact switches are Normally open (NO): In a normally open switch , the default state of the contacts is open.

When you push the button, the contacts are closed. The most typical type of selector light switch is the rotary switch. It sort of functions like a dial that allows you to switch between different modes.

There are other types of selector switch types as well, such as ones that have different buttons to press in or even ones that function similarly to toggle switches. A toggle switch has a lever that you flip up or down to open or close the contacts. A rotary switch has a knob that you turn to open and close the contacts.

The switch in the base of many. Also referred to as Push Switches, these switches are hand-operated electro-mechanical devices. DO NOT DISTURB SWITCH Entirely different from the regular switches available in the market, this soft touch operating.

Toggle switches have a lever that is pushed or pulle like the common light switch. Single-pole switches have two brass terminal screws and a toggle labeled ON and OFF. This type of light switch controls one light fixture (or electrical outlet) from a single location. When installing, always connect two hot wires to it, not two neutrals. The three-way switch is a variation of the standard single-pole switch, which controls a light only from one location.

A third type is the four-way switch, which is used in conjunction with two three-way switches to control lighting from more than two locations. This configuration may be used in open-plan homes or in large kitchens or great rooms, where a central bank of lighting fixtures might be controlled from more than two entry points. Smart Light Switches. Wireless Light Switches. Remote Control Light Switches.

Double-pole switches are far more common in factories than in homes, but occasionally you might find one acting as a safety shut-off for a residential appliance, a heating system or a spa or hot tub. Way Light Switches. Types of Switches and Dimmers Single-Pole Switch. Three-way switches have three terminals (in addition to a ground terminal) and can control one fixture. Single or Double Pole Toggle Switch This type of switch is a common one seen in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Basic types of switches are SPST, SPDT, DPST and DPDT. Other Vintage Electrical Switch Types There are many other switch shapes that do not have direct replacement options including large round buttons, mid-size rectangles, or long narrow switches with trade names such as Leviton Centura, Sierra Triplex, or Bryant Uniline. These are briefly discussed below.

The right type of light switch can be important to a new build. If you are building or renovating a house, you may be trying to decide between rocker-style light switches and traditional light switches. While both types will function similarly, there is a difference in both cost and style that can be important to your new build or renovation. Robust light switches based on a slim design, featuring vibrant colors and practical functions.

Buttons and Switches - and more.