How a 3 way switch works

A three way switch is just a SPDT (single-pole double-throw) switch. It has one terminal which connects to a pole. This pole is transferred fro one of the two other terminals each time the switch is switched to the other position.

Only if you know how a 3-way switch works. The concept is that two wires go from one switch to the other switch and the center is hot with one end going to the source and the other end going. If you have ever wondered ­how this arrangement works and how each switch knows what the other switch is doing, then read on. In this article, we will solve the mystery of three-way switches! When the switch is on, current flows along the black wire through the switch to the light, and then returns to ground through the white wire to complete the circuit.

Most common is the single-pole switch, the type used to control a light fixture from a single location. The next most common is the three-way switch, which is commonly used to control a light fixture from two different locations. For example, a long hallway or stairway might use a pair of three-way switches at each end so that lights can be turned on when approaching one end of the hall or stairway, then shut off from the other end. In this graphic someone has entered a room and flipped the switch at the right of the. Let us assume this is a large room.

The person who entered and. This page describes how to use 3-way and 4-way switches to control lights. For more than two switches, one or more 4-way switches are added.

Controlling a light with three or more switches. Unlike a common wall switch , the - way switch has three active terminals (plus a ground in up-to-date installations). Only one of them is important to identify for the purposes of replacement. A three- way light switch allows one light to have two different light switches, often in two different rooms for convenience. The three- way switch has three terminals inside it instead of two.

When both switches are connected to the same terminal, then it completes the circuit and turns the light on. The switch can connect to either terminal. A standard switch simply breaks or makes a circuit, it is either on or off.

A - way switch routes the current down one of two wires called travelers. Breja ToneWorks Recommended for you. The inner workings of a 5- way switch and various wiring options - Duration: 6:39. The following image shows a typical SPDT Toggle switch with its terminals. For wiring, I have selected the standard way with a 3. V Lithium Ion Battery as the power supply.

It worked flawlessly. After reading this you should be able to see how to wire the switch without needed a wiring diagram. In the first - way switch box, connect the pair of wires leading to the other box to the OUT pair of screws on the. Repeat for the other - way switch box. How Does a Light Switch Work?

A single-pole switch is one that just turns the lights OFF or ON from one wall location. Three- Way Switches. A three- way switch is used when you want to control a light fixture from two wall locations, such as. Four- Way Switches.

Identifying the common wires. Disconnect all three wires (or four, if the outlet is grounded). Now, using your multimeter, you are going to determine which of the three colored wires is. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch ! Turn the power back on.

This might seem intimidating, but it does not have to be. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. Wiring a 3-Way Light Switch.

With a pair of - way switches, either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.