Single-key light switch, principle of operation, device, circuit. Types of light switches and electrical equipment Hidden and outdoor installation methods

household switch is a two-position switching device with normally open contacts, designed to operate in networks with voltages up to 1000 volts, not intended to interrupt short-circuit currents, without special arc extinguishing devices, local control, with manual drive.

Other characteristics of this switch, such as operating current, degree of moisture, dust and explosion protection (IP), Climatic performance, installation method, contact material - are determined by the manufacturer and depend on the specific model.

Moreover, for household switch relevant design- For indoor installation(built into the wall, for hidden wiring) or for external installation(wall mounted, for open wiring).

Mainly used to turn on and off lighting (chandeliers, shades). For the same purpose, switches with smooth lighting control appeared on sale: dimmers, dimmers, trimmers.

Encyclopedic YouTube

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✪ Connection diagram for a two-key switch

✪ Connection diagram for a single-key switch

✪ Connection and installation of a single-key switch. How to connect one rocker switch(scheme)

✪ How to connect a single-key switch? How to install in a socket box?

✪ How to connect a two-key switch? How to install in a socket box?

Subtitles

Story

1879 - Edison demonstrates what he developed modern system electric lighting, including an incandescent lamp, a socket with a screw thread, a base, terminals, a switch, plug socket and a fork, electric meter, circuit breakers.

Kinds

Switches come in a wide variety of designs, their types depend on the purpose, the number of closed electrical circuits and the amount of current that they are capable of passing. In everyday life, as a rule, switches are used for voltages up to 250 V, and a maximum current of 4, 6 or 10 A (other values are less common). Main types (for domestic purposes):

By control method

Keyboards

These are the usual switches with a key. In Russia, the upper position of the key corresponds to the light on, and the lower position to the off (although sometimes the switches are accidentally installed upside down). This has been the case since the invention of switches because of their design features. A similar switch orientation is also adopted in the United States and Canada. In France, Germany, China, England, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland, the reverse orientation of the switch is generally accepted, when the circuit is closed in the down position of the key.

Some switches of this type may also have indicator lights, allowing you to quickly find them in the dark. When the light is turned on, the indicator goes out, and when the light is off, it stays on constantly.

Structurally are keys. That is, in one position they open the circuit, and in the other they close it.

Push-button

This is a switch, instead of a key, it has a push spring-loaded button. The button can be styled as a key. Then the pressure is applied to its lower part.

Structurally, as a rule, they are pulsed, that is, just buttons. As long as the button is pressed, the circuit is closed. Such buttons are used, for example, in calls. There are also push-button switches like key, which close and open the circuit alternately with each press.

In the United States, push-button switches are devices that have two buttons rather than one. When one button is pressed, the other is released automatically. These switches are structurally already keys, but not buttons.

Lever

A switch that has a control lever instead of a key. The design of this switch was patented by William Newton and Morris Goldberg in 1916.

Structurally are keys.

Rotary (rotary)

The rotary handle closes the circuit in one position and opens it in another. Structurally are keys. An example is a PG type switch.

Corded

They are also called rope ones, in the jargon - “pullers”. Turning the light on and off occurs by pulling the cord from the switch body. Structurally they can be like keys, so buttons, and even mechanical “two-bit binary counters” capable of sequentially accepting states 00, 01, 10, 11, then 00 again, and so on. Unreliable. When such switches fail, owners often replace the cord with an electric one, at the end of which they place conventional switch for open wiring on an insulating stand.

Sensory

These switches do not require mechanical action on any control element. The switch is affected by touching it. Structurally they can be like keys, so buttons.

By functionality

Key (regular household switch)

Such a switch opens a circuit in one state and closes it in another. So the switch is the key. Sometimes they are simply called switches.

According to the control method, they are most often keyboard-based, although there are rotary, cord, touch and even push-button switches.

Pulse (button)

Contact occurs only upon impact, without fixation in this position.

Most often used in calls. To control electrical appliances, they require connection to a pulse relay or controller.

According to the method of influence, they are most often push-button, although there are keyboard, touch and cord impulse switches.

Passing

2-way switch, pass-through switch. This device closes a specific circuit in each position. If you connect 2 lamps to it, the first one will work in one position, and the second one in the other. Has 3 connectors for connection.

Most often they are used in pass-through circuits, when 2 independent switches need to be connected to one consumer.

According to the control principle, as a rule, keyboards

Cross

"Double", intermediate switch. Switch with 4 connectors for connection. When transitioning from one state to another, it inverts the switching of cables connected to it. Used in pass-through circuits with three independent switches in combination with two switches.

Combined devices

Dimmers, twilight switches, etc.

Structurally

outdoor installation
built-in
modular
dust- and moisture-proof (outdoor or for wet rooms)
special

Switch design, color, material decorative elements and the design of the mechanism depend on the series of electrical installation products.

Twilight relay- one of the types of relays used to turn electric lighting on or off depending on the ambient light level.

According to the installation method, switches can be external (surface) and internal (built-in). External switches are installed with open wiring or in cases where it is not possible to install internal ones. For internal switches, the mechanism is recessed into the wall; they are used for hidden wiring; currently this is the main type of switches installed in homes.

According to the type of switching off/on, switches are divided into:

- rotary

- push-button

- keyboards

- with motion sensor

- rope

- sensory

- wireless

- dimmers

- switches

Invented about a hundred years ago and are currently in demand, in particular among fans of retro style.

Pushbutton switches, to control the lighting of rooms, have been used relatively recently, so they look original and unusual in any interior. They are very convenient to use, but, like everything new, it takes some time to get used to.

Most widespread key switches. Currently, they are equipped with lighting systems for the vast majority of residential or office buildings. Three- and two-key switches allow you to control entire groups of lighting fixtures.

Switches with built-in motion sensor, tracks movements, activating the lighting when a person appears and, accordingly, turning it off in the absence of any movement. Typically used infrared sensors, which are able to distinguish between the presence of a person and, for example, a pet.

The principle of operation is based on tracking the level of infrared (IR) radiation in the field of view of the sensor (sensor), most often pyroelectric. The presence sensor, which has a large viewing angle, is usually mounted on the ceiling of the room and, in addition to monitoring human presence, also allows you to control the intensity of lighting. Most often they are used to temporarily turn on the light and to ensure security, for example, they can turn on sirens, searchlights, video surveillance cameras if a person enters the sensor's field of action.

A switch with a motion sensor can be used on stairs in private homes. When they are installed on each span and adjusted accordingly, the light will turn on in the place where the person is.

Rope switches (with cord), enough exotic look, but nevertheless, many eminent manufacturers have such models in their lines of wiring devices. A number of properties that combine such switches are not found in other types. In addition to the obvious, when these are installed, in places where, due to the too high location of the switch, it is inconvenient to turn on / off lighting, they also give a person unique tactile sensations during operation, plus they are easy to touch in the dark.

Touch switch and - an innovative generation of light control devices. The principle of their operation is to control the current through a microcircuit, while conventional switches use traditional sliding contacts. The use of a microcircuit makes it possible to completely eliminate the occurrence of short circuit, which allows you to increase the service life of the lamps at times, and also significantly increases the life of the switch due to low wear. Such switches work from a simple touch, but there are models for which it is enough just to hold your hand nearby.

The principle of operation is simple - when you press the switch button, a radio signal is sent, which is received by the relay. It opens or closes the circuit on the phase that goes to the light source. The radius of action depends on the structural features of your home, and on the materials used, usually fluctuates in the range of 20-25m. The transmitters are powered by batteries that last up to 5 years depending on the intensity of use.

With this system you can control the light from anywhere in the house. The controls operate on radio frequencies via digital signals and do not interfere with television or radio equipment; mobile remote controls may be included. The wireless switch may be complex system lighting control " smart home"and it can be supplemented with various modules. Such systems are very popular due to their ease of installation and reliability, and often solve many problems with fixed wiring.

Very popular today dimmers, they control the light intensity. Usually, external panel The dimmer is equipped with keys, a rotating button, and less often an IR sensor that receives signals from the remote control. Dimmers, depending on type lighting lamps, are divided into 3 groups: those controlling incandescent lamps and halogen lamps; halogen lamps, which are connected through electronic and ferromagnetic transformers; energy-saving LED and fluorescent lamps, which are equipped with electromagnetic ballast.

Modern dimmers have an expanded set of functions such as: brightness control, presence simulation, automatic shutdown, dimming modes, smooth on and off, remote control function.

Ease of operation, using switches, is highly appreciated by consumers, and every year the percentage of objects where switches are used is steadily growing. The only negative is the more complex wiring diagram, large quantity materials used and more high price the switch mechanisms themselves.

At present, switches allow solving a much wider range of tasks than their original purpose. This is first of all important element design that complements many interior solutions. Also switches irreplaceable helpers, which save energy, allow you to control lighting without spending unnecessary effort, making a person’s life as comfortable as possible. Therefore, we advise you to seriously approach the issue of choosing switches, now knowing their main types, you can choose perfect option for any conditions.

Switch - electrical appliance, designed to connect and disconnect an electrical circuit. Most often, switches control lighting fixtures, less often they are used to turn on and off exhaust fans, air conditioners, etc.

According to the type of installation, switches are divided into hidden installation switches and external installation switches. The first ones are used during installation hidden electrical wiring, the second - when laying wiring in an open way.

Types of switches

The switch is the device that people most like to improve and tweak additional options technical designers. Depending on the methods of switching, adjustment, purpose and protective properties Switch housings can be divided into several types.

1. Keyboards

The most common type of switches. The closing and opening of the electrical circuit occurs when the key is switched from one position to another. One-, two- and three-key versions are available.

Rocker switches are inexpensive, convenient to use and easy to repair. On the other hand, they have a rather low service life, you can not adjust the intensity of lighting, there is no power saving mode.

2. Push-button

Principle of operation push-button switch similar to a keyboard: you press a button - it locks and closes the contact. Pressing it again opens the contact. Often released with LED backlight. Do not confuse such switches with ordinary electric buttons, for example, at the bell: such buttons close the contact only if they are held by hand.

Pushbutton switches will easily fit into the interior of any room, despite their slightly non-standard design. appearance. They cost a little more than their keyboard counterparts. But they will serve you faithfully for a long time.

3. Dimmers (switches with regulator)

They are a kind of rheostat, which is familiar to most of us from school physics lessons. A dimmer works on the same principle. A rheostat changes the resistance of an electrical circuit, and therefore the current strength in it. Higher resistance means lower current. The lower the current, the dimmer the light bulb included in the electrical circuit. With these switches, you can adjust the intensity of lighting by turning the control wheel.

The advantage of dimmers is energy saving (some devices even turn off on their own when no one is in the room) and ease of use. But there is also a minus: due to the high cost, not everyone can afford such switches. Note: dimmers work great with incandescent lamps, but with fashionable ones Lately LED lamps and lamps may conflict and function incorrectly.

4. Rotary

About 50 - 60 years ago, rotary switches were still actively used in the construction of houses, but recently they have been used only in “antique” design projects or in creating interiors in country, loft, and Provence styles. As a rule, they are produced only for outdoor installation and are used in conjunction with open wiring. Switched by turning the lever 90°.

5. Rope

The operating principle of this switch is similar to a push-button switch: by pulling the string until it clicks, you close the contacts. Pull a second time and open. This type of switch is mainly used in wall sconces and sometimes to turn on exhaust fans.

Rope switches are used not only in decorative purposes, they have a number practical advantages. For example, a hanging cord is easy to find by touch in the dark, and such switches are also suitable for families with small children, the child can easily reach it and be able to turn the light on and off on their own.

6. Touch

A modern type of switch with a long service life due to the absence of mechanical parts. Triggered by touch. Many models of touch switches are equipped additional functions, such as smooth dimming or auto-off. They like to use such switches in “smart homes”.

7. Acoustic

Such switches are also called clap or sound switches. Switching on occurs from the supply sound signal a certain volume, such as clapping your hands. Switches of this type with a timer are installed not only in apartments, but also in staircase landings. Some models provide a time setting after which the switch disconnects the circuit. Often acoustic switches are hidden in distribution boxes and are duplicated by regular keyboards.

The main advantage of this model is obvious: with it you don’t have to feel for the switch in the dark or walk across the entire apartment in dirty shoes because you forgot to turn off the lights. However, such devices do not always respond the first time and can operate spontaneously, which sometimes irritates owners.

8. Remote

These are switches that are activated by a signal from the remote control. Meet and combined models: e.g. touch switch with remote control. Remote switches are not very common because they are quite expensive. In addition, remote controls tend to get lost.

But there are also advantages. Firstly, with remote switches you don’t have to damage the walls: you just need to arm yourself with self-tapping screws or double-sided tape and secure the switches in in the right places. And no problems with fixed wiring. Secondly, you can turn light bulbs on and off from anywhere in your apartment or house and feel like the master of light.

9. Passing

Externally, a pass-through switch is no different from an ordinary one, but its internal filling has a slightly different layout. Pass-through switches allow you to control one electrical appliance (or a group of electrical appliances) from different points in space.

For example, you have two-storey house. You approach the stairs and turn on the lamp that illuminates it with the switch located below, on the first floor. You go up to the second floor. The light on the stairs is no longer needed. If there was a regular switch downstairs, you would either have to leave the light on the stairs on or go down to turn it off. This is exactly the problem that pass-through switches solve: you place them on top and bottom and control one lamp from different points.

Unfortunately, in order to fit such convenient pass-through switches into the lighting system of your home or apartment, you will have to spend a lot of money and effort (compared to classic options) due to the complex wiring diagram, the impressive amount of materials used and the high cost of the mechanisms themselves.

10. Sealed

A special type of switches is hermetic switches designed for installation in rooms with high humidity or dustiness: in baths, saunas, showers. Also, like waterproof sockets, they are classified according to the degree of protection. Thus, a switch that is installed in a bathroom or shower must have a protection class of at least IP-44. Read more about protection classes in ours.

11. Switch with built-in motion sensor

As the name implies, the switch, or more precisely, the sensor connected to it, reacts to movements: the light turns on when a person appears in the field of view of the sensor, and turns off when that person disappears from it. Most often, the operating principle of such sensors is based on tracking infrared radiation.

Switches with built-in motion sensors save energy. Using them, you can also adjust the intensity of lighting, turn on spotlights, sirens, CCTV cameras and control other useful equipment. Unfortunately, the price of these super-mechanisms is appropriate.

Useful tips

For the bathroom and kitchen, use sealed switches with a moisture and dust protection class of at least IP – 44
Rope switches will fit harmoniously into the nursery: the baby can easily reach the cord and can quickly turn on the light in the dark if he suddenly has a bad dream at night
Dimmers are best suited for the living room, since to watch TV and read a book you need different amount Sveta
For your convenience flights of stairs in a private house it is worth equipping with either pass-through switches or switches with built-in motion sensors

Household light switches- this, along with sockets, is the main type of electrical installation equipment that we encounter in everyday life.

Switches differ in the way they are switched- they can have screw or screwless terminals. In the first case, the wires are clamped between the plates with a screw. The disadvantage of this type of connection is the possible loosening of the contact over time, which is why you have to periodically tighten the screws. The screwless clamp significantly speeds up the installation process, and due to the design of the mechanism, reliable contact of the wire with the conductive fittings is ensured.

According to the installation method, switches can be external (surface) and internal (built-in). External switches are installed when open wiring or in cases where it is not possible to install internal ones. Internal switches have a mechanism recessed into the wall; they are used for hidden wiring; currently this is the main type of switches installed in homes.

According to the type of switching off/on, switches are divided into:

rotary
push-button
keyboards
with motion sensor
rope
sensory
wireless
dimmers
switches

Rotary switches invented about a hundred years ago and are currently in demand, in particular among fans of retro style.

Switches with built-in motion sensor, tracks movements, activating the lighting when a person appears and, accordingly, turning it off in the absence of any movement. As a rule, infrared sensors are used that are able to distinguish the presence of a person and, for example, a pet. The operating principle is based on monitoring the level of infrared (IR) radiation in the field of view of a sensor (sensor), most often pyroelectric. A presence sensor, which has a wide viewing angle, is usually mounted on the ceiling of a room and, in addition to tracking human presence, also allows you to control the light intensity. Most often, they are used to temporarily turn on lights and to ensure security, for example, they can turn on sirens, spotlights, and video surveillance cameras if a person enters the field of action of the sensor. A switch with a motion sensor can be used on stairs in private homes. When installing them on each span and setting them accordingly, the light will turn on in the place where the person is.

Rope switches (with cord), a rather exotic look, but nevertheless many famous manufacturers have such models in their lines of electrical installation devices. A number of properties that combine such switches are not found in other types. In addition to the obvious, when they are installed in places where, due to the switch being too high, it is inconvenient to turn on/off lighting fixtures, they also give a person unique tactile sensations during operation, plus they are easy to touch in the dark.

Touch switch and - an innovative generation of light control devices. The principle of their operation is to control the current through a microcircuit, while conventional switches use traditional sliding contacts. The use of a microcircuit makes it possible to completely eliminate the occurrence of short circuits, which allows you to increase the service life of the lamps several times, and also significantly increases the service life of the switch due to low wear. Such switches work from a simple touch, but there are models for which it is enough just to hold your hand nearby.

Remote switches- this is a set of a small control unit and a remote control (there may be several control units and remote controls), outwardly resembling a conventional switch, only more often flat. To install it, you don’t need to tap or drill the walls—you just need to secure the switch in a convenient place using self-tapping screws or double-sided tape. No hidden wiring, no noise, no dust and dirt, no re-wallpapering and no costly repairs. The principle of operation is simple - when you press the switch button, a radio signal is sent, which is received by the relay. It opens or closes the circuit on the phase that goes to the light source. The radius of action depends on the structural features of your home, and on the materials used, usually fluctuates in the range of 20-25m. The transmitters are powered by batteries that last up to 5 years depending on the intensity of use. With this system you can control the light from anywhere in the house. The controls operate on radio frequencies via digital signals and do not interfere with television or radio equipment; mobile remote controls may be included. A wireless switch can be a complex smart home lighting control system and can be supplemented with various modules. Such systems are very popular due to their ease of installation and reliability, and often solve many problems with fixed wiring.

Very popular today dimmers, they control the light intensity. As a rule, the external panel of the dimmer is equipped with keys, a rotating button, and less often an IR sensor that receives signals from the remote control. Dimmers, depending on the type of lighting lamps, are divided into 3 groups: those controlling incandescent lamps and halogen lamps; halogen lamps, which are connected through electronic and ferromagnetic transformers; energy-saving LED and fluorescent lamps, which are equipped with electromagnetic ballast. Modern dimmers have an expanded set of functions such as: brightness control, presence simulation, automatic shutdown, dimming modes, smooth on and off, and remote control function.

Switches (changeover, redundant or pass-through switch)- outwardly resembles a conventional key switch, but has a fundamentally different scheme of operation. When a conventional switch only breaks the circuit, the switch, opening one circuit, transfers the contact to another. This feature allows you to use switches to control lighting from two, three or even more places at the same time. With a control scheme in which more than 2 switches are involved, so-called cross switches are added to the scheme, they can be set an unlimited number, depending on how many places you want to control the lighting. Ease of operation, using switches, is highly appreciated by consumers, and every year the percentage of objects where switches are used is steadily growing. The only negative is a more complex wiring diagram, a larger amount of materials used and a slightly higher cost of the switch mechanisms themselves.

At present, switches allow solving a much wider range of tasks than their original purpose. This is primarily an important design element that complements many interior solutions. Switches are also indispensable assistants that save energy, allow you to control lighting without spending unnecessary effort, making a person’s life as comfortable as possible. Therefore, we advise you to take the issue of choosing switches seriously; now knowing their main types, you can choose the ideal option for any conditions.