home · On a note · What is the correct name for the switch? What types of light switches are there? Types and types of telephone sockets

What is the correct name for the switch? What types of light switches are there? Types and types of telephone sockets

One rocker switch light is a lighting control switching device, designed to perform two operations, closing and opening electrical circuit. Used exclusively for operation in lighting circuits with voltages up to 1000 V. Has manual drive management. Does not have protection functions against overloads and short circuit currents. It is not equipped with arcing chambers, and as a result is not intended for high current loads. The single-key light switch is one of the most common and well-known lighting elements. Of all the switching devices used to control light, this type switch is the simplest in design and connection. You can verify this by reading this article. Here, we will analyze in detail the design of a single-key switch, the principle of its operation, and also get acquainted with its circuit diagram.

Design options for single-key switches

Single-key switches household use can be of the following design:

  • external;
  • internal;
  • modular;
  • waterproof.

Switches indoor installation, are used for hidden electrical wiring, under plaster or inside frame walls. The switch mechanism is installed in a socket box pre-installed in the wall. For internal wiring apply and .

External switches are used for external electrical wiring, open on walls or with the use of additional protection for cable ducts, metal or plastic pipes, as well as flexible corrugated tubes. This type of electrical wiring is used mainly where it is not possible to carry out hidden installation wires

Modular switches are mainly used only in certain series of cable ducts. This type of switches is used mainly in office, industrial and commercial premises. Available only for installation in a cable channel.

Waterproof switches, used in rooms with high humidity, for example, a bathroom, basement, and also where there is a possibility of direct contact with the water switch, for example, the street. They can be both internal and external.

Operating principle of a single-key light switch

For the easiest understanding of the principle of operation of the device, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with the figure presented below.

Figure 1. Light switch operating principle

It shows, in the simplest and most visual form possible, the principle of operation of a single-key switch.

As can be seen from the figure, inside the mechanism of a single-key switch there is a movable contact, which, when the key is pressed, can take one of two positions. The first position is “on”, the second is “off”. In this case, the moving contact will either connect the circuit or disconnect it.

In the figure presented above, the key is in the “off” position, the contact is open, the phase is not supplied to the lamp, the lamp does not light.

Now, let's see how the circuit changes when the switch is turned to the "on" position.

Figure 2. Light switch operating principle

Well, we’ve figured out the design of the light switch, let’s move on to the next point.

Single-key switch connection diagram

The figure below shows a schematic diagram of connecting a single-key switch.

Today, not a single room is complete without light switches. These switching devices allow you to easily and quickly turn off and turn on any lighting fixtures. In addition, today there are switches that allow you to smoothly control the degree of illumination. To replace an old device with a new one, you need to know the structure of the switch, understand the range of switches and the criteria for choosing a device, and be able to correctly connect the device to the electrical wiring.

Light switch structure

Light switches are switching devices that are used to open/close contacts in an electrical circuit connected to one or more lighting devices. Such devices are not intended to disconnect short-circuit currents; they are used in household networks with voltages up to 1 kV.


Regardless of the type, the structure of a household switch requires the presence of a switching element that affects the electrical circuit.

The basis of switching elements is an electromagnet. The input signal in such devices is voltage or electric current. At the same time, switching elements can be controlled manually or automatically. Accordingly, household switches are divided into varieties according to the principle of actuating the switching element. The design of switching devices for lighting control depends on the magnitude of the current and voltage that they switch, and the number of groups of electrical lighting devices.

Mechanical light switches: types

In order to choose a contact lighting switch, you need to know what types of switching devices are offered modern market. So, all room electrical switches are divided into mechanical and electronic.

Today, mechanically controlled switches are especially popular.

They are distinguished by their availability and wide range. The switching element in such models is activated by mechanical action (pressing buttons, moving toggle switches to a different position, turning handles).

By type of control element mechanical switches are divided into:

  • Rotary (round switch with rotary handle);
  • Push-button (may have a round or polygonal button);
  • Keyboards (a regular flat switch with one or more keys depending on the number of keys controlled by it lighting fixtures);
  • Toggle switches (lever switches).

A special category is made up of rope switches, which are often found in construction wall lamps. In addition, such switches are suitable for ceiling mounting, wall installation at a height higher than recommended.

Household electrical switches: types

Electronic light switches are considered more durable, reliable and safe than mechanical ones. Circuit switching in such models is performed using semiconductor devices, which reduces the likelihood of short circuits. Such devices act on the circuit after receiving a radio signal and triggering a motion sensor.

Depending on the principle of operation, modern electronic switches are divided into:

  • Electronic with motion sensor;
  • Sensory;
  • Remote.

Separately, there is a pass-through electrical switch, which is used to control the degree of illumination - a dimmer. In appearance, a dimmer most often resembles a rotary switch. Dimmers are distinguished depending on the type of lamps being controlled.

How to choose a light switch

When choosing a switching device, it is necessary to take into account not only the type of switch, but also the type of wiring. The method of mounting the switch depends on this. So, with open wiring, external switching devices are used.

An external light switch does not have a recessed mechanism and is often called a surface mounted switch.

For hidden wiring, internal (hidden) switching devices are chosen, the mechanism of which is recessed into the wall. In addition, when choosing a device, you should pay attention to its specifications and the material of its manufacture.


So, when choosing a household light switch, you should consider:

  1. The rated current that the device can withstand. So, for apartments and residential buildings, devices designed for current with a voltage in the range from 110 to 250 Volts are suitable.
  2. The voltage that the device can withstand. To calculate this value, you need to know how many lighting devices the switch will be designed for and their power.
  3. Device manufacturing material. Switches with a ceramic base are considered the most durable and reliable. But for small rooms In the apartment you can also choose ordinary plastic ones.
  4. Properties of the device body. Thus, switches can have a shockproof housing and protection from moisture. Information about the degree of protection of the switch can be found on its body (the marking has two numbers and two letters). For bathrooms, you should choose devices with IP44 code.
  5. Switch size. The standard size of a device with a single frame is 8.5x8.5 cm. A narrower single-key switch can be 5-6 cm wide. Small push-button light switches are usually used directly on lighting fixtures.
  6. Brand and cost of the switch. It is best to take original switches: although they are more expensive than fakes, they will last longer. Switching devices from MK Electric, BTicino, Berker are considered elite. The optimal price-quality switches are made by Legrand and Siemens. More affordable, but no less high-quality devices can be found from Tern and Wessen.

In addition, it would be a good idea to pay attention to the presence of additional functionality of the switch. For example, models with backlighting (LED or fluorescent) will be convenient.

What are the differences between industrial light switches?

Industrial circuit breakers are designed primarily to protect the network from overcurrent and short circuits. They are reusable automatic switching devices equipped with a thermal or electromagnetic relay direct action– circuit breaker. Such switches have big sizes, are manufactured with a manual or motor drive, and are three- and/or four-pole.

Each model of industrial circuit breaker has its own maximum short circuit current, which does not damage the device and electrical equipment.

Current exceeding this value may cause contact welding or fire. Therefore, industrial switches are selected depending on rated current on the object. Such switches are produced with ratings from 10 to 4000 A.

According to their purpose and operating principle, industrial switches are divided into:

  • Automatic switches for the protection of single- and three-phase low-power electric motors;
  • Switch-disconnectors;
  • Limit switches (limit switches).

Such switches are used on industrial enterprises, in buildings and structures for civil and residential purposes, distribution devices electrical substations.

Electrical switch: connection diagram

The simplest is to connect a single-key switch to turn on and off lighting fixtures. In order to make the connection correctly, the circuit must include a switch, junction box, power supply, connecting wires.


At the same time, it should be taken into account that any type of switch (including pass-through) is connected to the electrical wiring to break the working phase wire.

Only such a connection can provide safe operation connected through an electrical equipment switch. Otherwise, if the connection is made to break the neutral wire, the wiring will be energized, which is unsafe for life and health. You can determine the phase wire in an existing electrical wiring using indicator screwdriver: If the screwdriver indicator lights up, the wire is live.

The diagram for connecting lighting devices through a switch looks like this:

  1. From the electrical panel, the working wires (zero, phase and ground) are led to the distribution box;
  2. Phase the wire goes to the switch, to the break, and then to the lighting fixtures;
  3. Zero and ground go to the lighting fixtures, bypassing the switch.

Two- and three-key switches are connected according to the same principle with the addition of additional phase wires, going from the key to a separate lamp. Before carrying out connection work, you must make sure that there is no voltage at the facility. This can be done using the same indicator screwdriver.

How to choose a light switch (video)

The light switch is important switching device, which is used to open/close contacts in an electrical circuit. All switches are divided into types depending on the principle of control of the switching element. Using the selection criteria and recommendations above, you can choose the most suitable device for your purposes!

Special devices are required to break and connect electrical circuits. Such devices are switches. They are various designs, depending on the purpose, operating conditions, switched voltage and current. In general, this is not a very complex device, but quite responsible. Let's look at what types of switches there are.

For each application area, the industry produces its own types of switches; all of them can be divided into several groups according to different characteristics. Switches are divided by type. Each type has its own area of ​​application. You can also divide switches by control method.

There are switches with manual control, there are those that are controlled by parts of mechanisms (limit switch) or the physical environment in which they are located (gas relays, thermal relays, etc.), and there are switches with electric drive. In the latter case, most often we are talking about a relay and magnetic starters, but there are precisely switches that are called just that: oil or air for high-voltage powerful circuits in the energy sector.

Switches and sockets, like all other electrical equipment, are divided according to the conditions of use (climatic design). Nowadays the international protection system (IP) is widely used. These letters are followed by two numbers and an optional letter.

The first digit means the protection of the product from getting into it foreign objects from outside. These objects have any size, up to the size of dust particles. The second number indicates the degree of protection from moisture. The higher the numbers, the higher the degree of protection.

Materials used in switches

Two types of materials are used to make switches. The first is conductive, which must meet the requirements of high corrosion resistance and low electrical resistance, and the second is isolation. Here, on the contrary, the resistance should be as high as possible, and heat and chemical resistance should also be high. Mechanical strength is also very important, since sometimes increased forces are applied to the switches.

For live parts in switches, brass, copper, and bronze are used. These materials are corrosion resistant and have low resistance. Contact surfaces are often soldered with alloys containing precious metals: silver, gold, platinum, rhodium. This increases the service life (time between failures) of the circuit breaker. Cheap models use simple copper soldering with alloying additives.

The base and moving insulating parts are made of heat-resistant and low-flammable plastics with mineral fillers. The fact is that with the passage of significant currents and increased transition resistance in the contacts, the switch begins to heat up and this heat should not damage its design. In high-power switches they use ceramic materials, and asbestos. Switch housings are made from various materials, depending on the execution.

Switches for home (domestic use)

Used in everyday life different kinds switches, but their purpose is usually limited to controlling luminaires. Such a switch should be convenient, safe, have attractive design. According to the installation method, it can be built-in or installed externally. Nowadays, rotary keys are used as controls; such switches are common in Europe.

In the USA, almost all switches are lever-type (toggle switches), apparently, a tradition. Even earlier, rotary switches were used, an invention of Thomas Edison. They were common throughout the world in the first half of the 20th century and switched up to several circuits in 3–4 positions (batch switch). Package switches are still used in many old utility panels.

To turn on lamps, a single-key switch is used; for chandeliers, a two-key switch or even a three-key switch is used. Double switch Lights are also often used for a pair of toilet/bathroom rooms. It must be said that modern sources lights are quite advanced compared to what they were 15 years ago. Therefore, many switches appeared with additional functions. The simplest of them is a backlit switch for night time.

A switch with a shutdown timer is used to save light in small rooms (closets, bathrooms) where people enter for a short time and forget to turn off the lights.

The switch with a dimmer can be used with those luminaires that support the dimmer function. Sometimes they are included in the kit, since this type of device has not yet been standardized.

A light switch with a motion sensor is another way to save electricity and is very convenient. The light turns on if infrared sensor detects human movement in the sensor's field of view. Repeated motion may turn off the lights, or a timer may do so after motion has been detected. A switch with a motion sensor does not require any action from a person; his presence is sufficient.

There are quite exotic look– clap switch. Inside it there is a microphone, an amplifier and a microprocessor device for recognizing the nature of the sound. Such a switch, after installation, may not work the first time, since it stores the sound from the user in memory for later comparison. I must say frankly that this is a rather stupid way to turn the light on and off - people may already be asleep and the noise will disturb them.

The floor switch is made in the form of a button with a locking mechanism. It is designed for a small pressing force and is structurally designed in such a way that it is not damaged by large weights and can withstand the weight of the leg.

The ceiling switch is also a button with a lock, to which the force is transmitted from a lever with a cord attached to it. The mechanics are hidden behind decorative cover. To use such a switch, turn it on or off, you need to pull the cord or tug it lightly.

Designation of switches on construction diagrams

One of the circuits used by electrical builders is not fundamentally electrical. This is the layout diagram. It is carried out according to its own rules and has different circuit diagrams designations.

Sometimes consumers need to agree on a project, as customers they have every right to do so. They are shown a diagram that is difficult for them to understand and they often accept it as is, and then fiddle with modifications. Below is the designation of sockets and switches in the drawings.

The designation of switches in the drawings is indicated by a small circle from which a segment emanates at an angle of approximately 60° to the horizontal. An open installation switch is indicated by a short dash to the right, set aside from the end of the segment. The number of such dashes indicates the number of poles. Number independent switches in the group is shown by repeating vertical segments shifted by an angle of 30°: a four-key switch will be depicted by four segments, a triple switch by three, etc.

Rosettes are indicated by a semicircle convex upward (usually a segment of a circle). As many segments are laid off from the circle as there are poles in the socket. If the outlet has a terminal for protective land, then a horizontal tangent is drawn at the top point of the arc.

The pictures showed overhead sockets and switches. Hidden ones differ from them only by a vertical line in the circle segment (socket) and a T-shaped line instead of an L-shaped one at the switches. Outdoor sockets and switches designed for outdoor use are designated similarly to those shown, but they have a higher protection class: from IP44 to IP55, which respectively means: “no gaps of 1 mm or higher and protection from splashes in any direction " and "partial protection against dust and short-term protection against jets from any direction."

To distinguish such sockets in the drawings, as well as switches, they are filled with solid black color. All other notation rules remain the same. For more information on electrical symbols, see construction drawings please refer to GOST 21.614–88.

Preface

It is necessary to choose the right types of sockets and switches in order to ensure their safe operation in different conditions.

Contents

Modern views electrical outlets and switches ensure uninterrupted operation household appliances. It is necessary to choose the right types of sockets and switches in order to ensure their safe operation in various conditions. The article on this page lists the most common types of sockets and switches and provides their brief characteristics.

Sockets and switches are electrical installation products and are the most important element any home electrical network. IN Lately In addition to the already known classic examples of these devices, many new varieties have appeared.

However, the principle of their operation remains the same.

Receptacles are part of the plug connection along with the plug. These components are called “mother” and “father”, respectively.

They are used to connect electrical appliances, without which it is unthinkable modern life. There are many varieties plug sockets. To make your choice, you need to know some technical details.

Socket device

The socket device includes all the necessary parts for conducting electric current.

Elements of the device of any outlet:

  • contacts;
  • base (or block);
  • protective case.

Contact- the main working element of the socket. It is through it that energy is transferred from power cable to the contacts of the connected device.

Contact material- a metal alloy with a certain elasticity for reliable connection of the pins of the plug with the socket. On the one hand, the contacts are connected to the power conductor using screw or key clamps, on the other, they interact with the plug.

The technical characteristics of the contacts are great importance. Old style sockets are designed for Rated voltage at 220 - 230 V and a current of 6.3 - 10 A. These values ​​are much less than in modern sockets, for which the permissible current is 10 - 16 A.

The total power of electrical appliances that can be connected to an outlet depends on these indicators. For an old-style outlet it is 1386 W (6.3 A x 220 V), for a modern one it is 3520 W (16 A x 220 V). Thus, modern sockets are almost three times larger than older models. This is due to the increase in power household electrical appliances. If the apartment has old-style connectors, then when connecting to them washing machine or air conditioner, the contact material may not withstand.

In addition, at modern sockets the distance between the output contacts is larger and the diameter of the plug pins is larger (4.8 mm instead of the previous 4 mm).

Nowadays, three wires are installed in sockets - phase, neutral and grounding; in old models there were only two of them: phase and zero. New devices are also equipped with special grounding conductors. When connected to old socket this protection will not work, which is absolutely unacceptable from a security point of view. And the point is not so much in the design of the sockets, but in the supply power network, which may or may not have a grounding system. Last option often found in old houses.

Socket block

The socket block is the base of the socket, what holds the contacts and the protective housing. It can be made of carbolite (in old samples) or ceramics. Ceramics - beautiful dielectric material, durable and fire resistant. Its only drawback is fragility. Sometimes the sockets are made of special plastic, as, for example, in Wessen sockets.

The socket block can be used as a regular outdoor power socket. If the socket is built-in, the block has fastenings for installing it in the socket box. In addition, the block can serve as a blank for self-made extension cords In this case, a cord of the required length (usually PVA) is attached to it, to the end of which a plug is mounted. In addition to regular household extension cords, there are portable ones. They are used for various construction work or outside the home, for example.

Socket protective housing

The protective housing of the socket is outer cover connector with holes for a plug. It performs protective and decorative functions.

In certain types of sockets, special devices: protective curtains, covers, plug ejection buttons, backlight, etc.

The material used is heat-resistant, unbreakable plastic; sometimes the body is decorated with a variety of inserts, which can be selected in accordance with the interior or planning elements.

All types and types of electrical outlets and their photos

There are various types of sockets that allow you to solve specific problems. All types of sockets are divided according to their purpose and installation method. The main types of electrical outlets are designed to connect household appliances. You can see different types of sockets in the photo, which are attached below to the description of their types.

Recessed closed type socket outlet

The recessed type socket is mounted with hidden wiring in installation boxes (socket boxes): the block together with the contacts is immersed in the wall, while the protective housing almost does not protrude from the plane of the walls.

Double recessed socket is used to connect two plugs. The built-in version of the double socket is suitable for installation in one socket box, since it has one block at the base standard size. If a power outlet is required closed type with more than two sockets, then install blocks for three or four plugs (open wiring) or mount several single-socket sockets side by side and put a frame on top (hidden wiring).

Open non-recessed type sockets

Overhead sockets open type attached to the wall surface. The protective housing surrounds the connector on all sides, without leaving contacts exposed, as is the case with hidden sockets.

Non-recessed grounding type socket outlet designed for installation in Electricity of the net, where there is grounding. These outlets have contacts connected to a ground wire.

Additional devices are installed in the body or block of such sockets: lighting, protective curtains for children, covers that protect against moisture, a plug ejector or a shutdown timer.

May meet combined types sockets For example, a double built-in socket with grounding or a single-socket external socket without grounding (marking b/z).

If the socket is not the final one in the electrical circuit and power wire, energizing it, goes further to the next outlet, it is called a pass-through. Such sockets are mounted with boxless wiring.

Types of television sockets

In addition to power, there are also types TV sockets for data cable ends.

Antenna socket. Its difference from a conventional power socket is that instead of two holes for the pins of the plug, it has a connector for the tip of the antenna cable. Such sockets are installed in places where televisions are located.

Types and types of telephone sockets

All types telephone sockets designed for a telephone connector. There are several types of telephone sockets - from simple ones, installed next to the telephone, to complex ones, having the appearance and size of a power socket. Some types of telephone jacks can be used to connect to the Internet.

A computer socket is very similar in appearance to a telephone socket, but differs in the size of the cable lug and the number of contact wires. Used to connect to the Internet and connect computers to each other.

Sometimes antenna, telephone and computer connectors are combined in one socket housing.

There are also power connectors - plug connections designed to connect to single-phase and three-phase networks various electrical appliances. They are rarely used in everyday life. The electric stove is connected using the power connector, welding machine or a concrete mixer.

IN different countries plug connectors may differ greatly from each other. For example, a Russian-made hair dryer cannot be connected to a French outlet. If it is necessary to connect mismatched connectors, special adapters are used. By the way, the so-called Euro sockets are a German standard.

Types of Electric Light Switches

Like sockets, switches consist of three main elements (contacts, block and protective cover), which are made of the same materials. Types of electrical switches are designed for hidden (built-in) or external (surface) installation. This is where the similarity between switches and sockets ends.

Unlike sockets, which are used to connect to the electrical network, all types of light switches act differently - they break the electrical circuit. There are no moving elements in the socket; in the switch, the entire operating principle is based on a changeover contact, which, by changing its position, opens or closes the circuit. In addition, only one wire fits to the switch - phase. Some types have a contact for connecting a ground wire.

There are several types of switches.

Key. A device with one key or button. Used when you need to turn one light source on or off. To save space, install switches with two, three or big amount keys that are capable of controlling several light sources independent of each other, sometimes located in different rooms. Pass-through (switch). Allows you to control one light source from two different points. Outwardly, it is no different from a key switch. The difference lies in the number of contacts: a single-key switch has three instead of the usual two, and a two-key switch has six instead of three. A walk-through switch is very convenient: you can, for example, turn on the light using the switch at the entrance to the bedroom, then walk into the room, lie down in bed and turn it off using the switch at the head of the room.

With backlight. An indicator light is built into the body or on the keys of such a switch, which glows in the dark. When you enter the room, you will immediately see where it is located, and you will not have to look for it by touch.

Control. In appearance it is similar to a backlit switch, but its operating principle is exactly the opposite. The indicator light is on when the light is on and off when the circuit is open. By the appearance of such a switch it is easy to determine whether the lighting is turned on in a remote room.

Shockproof and dustproof and waterproof. They have increased mechanical strength and protection from moisture and dust. Installed outdoors, in bathrooms, etc.

Dimmer (dimmer)- lighting switch-controller. Recently, such switches have become popular. By smoothly turning the knob or pressing the dimmer button, you can plunge the room into twilight or fill it with blinding light. There are dimmers that are not controlled manually, but using the TV remote control or voice commands. Such a dimmer costs six to seven times more than a key switch. The dimmer has some disadvantages. For example, it creates radio interference. In addition, dimmers cannot be used in conjunction with energy saving lamps(ballast), and connected in series, they behave unpredictably.

Push-button or linear. They are mounted directly on the wire. Most often they are used in floor lamps, sconces and other lighting equipment.

With timer. It has a clock mechanism that turns the light on or off at specified intervals. With such switches, you can install various sensors that are triggered by sound, light or motion. They are mounted in the switch housing.

To be able to turn lighting devices on and off, a switch should be provided in the electrical circuit. If we are talking about apartments or private houses, then switches are used in them different designs. The assortment presented to the consumer’s attention is quite diverse in functionality and design, but when choosing a suitable product you should pay attention Special attention its quality.

What is an electric switch, its scope

Essentially, switches are switching devices that have two operating positions (on-off) and determine the state:

  • an open electrical circuit in which the voltage supply to the lighting device is stopped,
  • a closed circuit that supplies power to the electric lighting device.

Usually household switches are controlled manually, their scope of application is limited to installation in home wiring, operating within the nominal parameters of the network.

The design of a household electrical switch does not allow it to be used to switch off currents under excessive loads or short circuits. To perform protective functions, special automatic devices should be installed - apartment panel switches; they are equipped with current releases, a cut-off mechanism and a system for extinguishing the electric arc.

Types of switches, their features

Each of the switch models is created:

  • under a certain voltage or current in the network,
  • may have special Climatic performance, have an increased degree of moisture or dust resistance,
  • differ in the method of connecting wires or installation option,
  • switching and control method.

Most switch models provide wire connection using different types screw terminals. This time-tested option is being replaced today by a simpler option with spring-loaded terminal blocks; they make it possible to speed up and simplify the process of inserting the wire lug into the clamping device.

However, experts recommend using switches with screw terminals for networks with aluminum wires, which begin to flow over time when heated, this leads to sparking and weakening of the contact. In order to correct the situation, it will be enough to simply tighten the screws.

It is better to fasten with screwless clamps copper wires- their fastening with a special terminal will be reliable, its implementation is extremely simple and fast.

Depending on the functionality, the switches can be:

  • ordinary,
  • indicator,
  • dimmer.

The design of the switches allows them to be divided into:

  • rotary,
  • changeover,
  • push-button,
  • light-regulating.

Options for installing switches for open and hidden wiring

Wiring in an apartment or private house can be open or closed; depending on its type, you should choose a specific switch model.

More often open wiring can be found in country house or in old houses built at the beginning of the last century, the wires in this case are on the surface of the wall, then the switches will need to be installed on surfaces.

IN modern construction It is customary to carry out the wiring hidden, the wires go inside the walls, and the switches are installed in specially prepared recesses. In older models of switches, to fix the entire structure in a certain position, “legs” were provided, which, when installed, rested against the wall.

Modern switches have a more reliable fastening - an installation box is first installed in the wall cavity, and the switch is fixed on it using screws.

Single-, double- and multi-key switches

In stores you can most often find a two-key or one-key switch, but if you set your mind to it, you can find three-key models. In practice, if necessary, have a large number of lighting control keys, resort to installing several single-key switches and unite them with a common frame.

Manufacturers of electrical equipment from South Korea and the USA produce switches with a large number of keys, from 1 to 6, and each key is equipped with an indicator light. In models manufactured in European countries, indicator lamps are installed in single-key versions.

In practice, a double switch turns out to be quite convenient; with its help, you can control the operation of two lighting devices from one point.

The advantage of a two-key switch is the ability to:

  • location of a large number of control points in a fairly limited space,
  • groupings of control of lighting devices with separately switched sections, for example, multi-arm chandeliers.

Direction of on/off keys on two-button switch always matches.

The switch should be connected in such a way that the phase wire is broken. Its off position de-energizes electrical appliances and allows for safe servicing. The neutral wire is connected directly to the devices.

Touch switch, its advantages

The design of the touch device allows you to control electrical devices without mechanical impact. To perform the on or off procedure, just touch the special panel located on the front side switch.

The design of the touch panel includes a sensitive element; touching it is perceived as a command to be processed immediately. The signal entering the electronic circuit is converted into a form that can be perceived by the switching part, which provides power switching.


Particularly attractive are models configured in such a way that to activate them, it is enough to bring your hand to a distance of 3-5 cm; such switches are indispensable in the kitchen, they eliminate the need to touch their surface with wet or dirty hands.

Built-in touch switches are usually equipped with LED backlight, allowing you to easily find the location of the switch in an unlit room.

The appearance of the touch switches is quite refined, it is a smooth plate with markings, this design allows you to use the touch device in any interior design.

Using this switch you can:

  • turn electrical appliances on and off,
  • change the lighting intensity,
  • change direction luminous flux.

Among the advantages of touch switches, let us recall:

  • simplicity and ease of use,
  • possibility of connecting to different types lamps,
  • fire safety,
  • extending the life of lighting bulbs,
  • efficiency.

Features of models with remote control

A remote light switch is a receiving device that cuts into the wire that supplies power to the lighting fixture. It is controlled contactlessly - using a radio signal coming from the remote control. The remote control is powered by batteries; the operating mode assumes that they can operate without replacement for quite a long period.


Advanced functionality remote switch is ensured by the presence in its circuit of microprocessor controllers, which:

  • are able to ensure smooth starting,
  • allows you to change the intensity of light,
  • Allows you to set a timer.

The remote switch is connected depending on what lamps are used for lighting:

  • incandescent lamps - connected like a regular switch,
  • If the lamps are LED or energy-saving, it is recommended to install the switch as close to them as possible.

The advantages of a contactless device include:

  • Possibility of control using any remote control,
  • installation does not require replacement of wiring; installation can be performed at the site where the old device was located,
  • the ability to adjust the level of illumination, which has a beneficial effect on the life of the light bulbs, in addition, it allows you to choose a lighting intensity that is gentle on the eyes,
  • Possibility of switching on and off at a specified frequency.

Touch switches equipped with remote control allow you to perform lighting control procedures at a distance of about 25 - 30 m, i.e. within an apartment or house, without moving from one room to another. The range is determined by the design of the building and the materials used in its construction.

The latest developments by engineers in this area make it possible to control lighting fixtures using mobile devices- iPad or iPhone.

Switch with sensor

The light switch can be equipped with a motion sensor that monitors movements in the room and independently turns on the lighting devices when there are people in the room, or it can have a sound sensor and respond to words, clicks, claps, etc.

Reaction to certain types of stimulus - activation of a contact device responsible for connecting or opening the contacts of an electrical circuit.

The sensor is equipped electronic components which analyze:

  • ambient light level,
  • presence of moving objects.

Features of twilight switches

This type of switches is distinguished by a design that operates on the principle of a photo relay that responds to changes in the intensity of illumination by a sensor. A decrease in the luminous flux causes the sensor to trigger and the subsequent switching on of the lighting device; when the natural shutdown intensity is restored, the lamp will be turned off automatically.

To make the operation of luminaires more economical, twilight switches can be supplemented with presence or motion sensors.

Pass-through switch

The invention of walk-through switches was facilitated by the need to turn the lighting device on and off from different points in the room, this is especially convenient in the case of long corridors - the light can be turned on when starting to move along the corridor, and, accordingly, turned off when moving to the end of this corridor.

This option involves installing two pass-through switches in the network, one at the entrance to the room, the second at the exit. Most often this option is used in long corridors, stairs or on garden plot, on illuminated walking paths.

If earlier is a reason to install pass-through switch served certain architectural features premises, today it is customary to install them in rooms of any configuration - for example, at the entrance to the living room and near your favorite chair or sofa - so that you can turn off the lights without getting up.

In appearance, pass-through switches do not differ from ordinary ones; their functionality is ensured by the special structure of the contact system.

Dimmers

A separate type of switches are dimmers, which are light-control devices. They are designed to turn lighting devices on and off and adjust their brightness.

The selection criterion will be the load for which the device is designed, for example, if “300 W” is indicated on the dimmer, then with such a dimmer it will be possible to regulate a five-arm chandelier with sixty-watt light bulbs. Experts recommend purchasing such devices with some power reserve.

Electrical switch, secrets of choosing the best electrical switch

  • on inside products must indicate the current strength and voltage for which the device is designed, it is desirable that there is a sign of Rostest, which is a kind of guarantee of the state,
  • You can ensure trouble-free operation by purchasing products from famous manufacturers, visually they are distinguished by clear lines of shape and a smooth, durable surface, the product should not be light - thin plastic with a loose structure will quickly lose its attractive appearance,
  • a quality product must be disassembled into spare parts - body, latches, frame, standardized modules,
  • the kit must contain assembly instructions; its text can be printed on the film packaging of the switch,
  • you should choose models that correspond to the type of wiring and wire material,
  • when choosing, it is advisable to be guided by your knowledge and experience or get advice from electrical specialists - sometimes sellers recommend purchasing the most expensive product that is not popular with consumers,
  • It would not be amiss to make sure that there is no smell of plastic emitted by the switch - an unpleasant aroma is evidence that the plastic is cheap and of low quality; in a confined space of a room such a product can pose a danger to humans,
  • a model of a suitable design should be selected exclusively from products that meet the technical parameters,
  • Taking care of your own comfort, you should give preference to backlit models - using them at night is much more convenient.

If the light switch is selected for a sauna or bathroom, or will be installed outdoors, then the requirements should include a point about increased moisture resistance, equipped with a special rubber or plastic casing.

When installing the switch in public premises It is rational to purchase anti-vandal models - they are made of metals or heavy-duty plastics, inner part made from non-conductive durable composite materials. It is almost impossible to damage such a switch.