Top Notch 3 Way Switch Explained

Video includes the bonus addition of addin.

3 way switch explained. If you have ever wondered how this arrangement works and how each switch knows what the other switch is doing then read on. But when it s off position 2 the current is diverted from the l1 to the l2 terminal. A three way wall switch is a common type of light switch that makes it possible to control a ceiling light or other electrical fixture from two different locations in a room.

Three way switches are commonly used to control a light fixture from two different locations. This presentation shows the internal workings of three ways and how a light. A three way light switch is different than a traditional single pole light switch as it contains an extra screw to connect an extra wire.

The common terminal of the second 3 way switch connects to the light fixture s. This is known as the common screw and it s usually black instead of brass or silver. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together.

A two way switch has three terminals its a little more complicated any useful than it s one way cousin. When it s on position 1 the com terminal is connected to the l1 terminal. In a hallway or large room for example installing three way switches at both ends lets you turn the light fixture on or off from both locations.

The white neutral wires are connected together in each switch box. Traveler wires are interchangeable on each switch. 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.

A 3 way switch circuit is explained and described in detail including visual animation and practical application. Whenever you flip either one of the switches the light changes its state if it is on it turns off and if it is off it turns on. Three way switches are always used in pairs and include special wiring connections.