The device and principle of operation of the pass-through switch

The device of the pass-through switch almost does not differ from the standard one. Outside, there are no differences at all, but inside you can see an additional contact, which provides the desired functionality. With this option, you can make the control of light in an apartment or house much more convenient. The main thing is to understand its features and connect it correctly.

What is a pass switch and how does it work

This type is different from the standard. If in the usual version the electrical circuit simply closes or opens, then in the equipment in question it switches from one contact to another. The system can be called a switch, as it changes modes, and does not work like classic products. The principle of operation of the pass-through switch is as follows:

1. Unlike the standard version, the single-key model has not two, but three contacts on the back side.Moreover, an additional contact is needed so that when one circuit opens, the second one closes and control passes to the second element located elsewhere in the room.
2. These switches are always used in pairs. There cannot be less than two of them, otherwise there will be no point in using them. The system works by means of changeover contacts, which act like a rocker arm.
3. Normally the light is on when both switches are in the same position. When the keys are positioned differently, the lighting turns off.
4. A mandatory element in this case is a junction box. Due to it, a system is made that allows you to turn on and off the lighting from different places in the room.

Appearance and design features in the apartment.

By the way! On the outside, the pass switch usually has a designation in the form of triangles, the tops of which are directed up and down.

How are pass-through switches

The main difference from standard equipment is the extra contact located on the back side. Externally, the device is no different, and if there is no designation on it, it is impossible to understand that this is a pass-through switch.

Due to the presence of an additional element, you can switch the circuit from one contact to another so that you can control the light from two or more devices. Everything is quite simple - when the contact is closed in one switch, the same thing happens in the other.

Devices can be either single-key or two-key or more. There are no special restrictions, it all depends on the lighting modes and the number of light sources used in the room.

Where is it used and how to connect it correctly

As for the application, there are no limits.Most often, this option is placed on the stairs - above and below, in the bedrooms - at the entrance and near the bed, at different ends of the corridor, in living rooms, etc. Switches can be used wherever it will increase the convenience of light control. At the same time, for the system to work correctly, it must be connect correctly:

1. To start the switch understands, there are three fasteners on the back side. Two of them are a common contact that must be found before connecting. If there is no circuit on the case, you can find out this point using a tester.
2. A phase is connected to the common terminal. The lead wire is always three-wire, since this option will not work on a two-wire. The remaining two wires are connected to other contacts, their location does not matter.
3. Next, you need to assemble the outlet and install it in place. With the second switch, a similar work is carried out. There is nothing complicated, the main thing is not to confuse the location of the wires.
4. It is very important to correctly connect the wires in the junction box. It should include four three-core cables - power, two for switches and one for a chandelier. The connection of wires is carried out according to the scheme, which is given below. The easiest way is to navigate by the color of the insulation, then you don’t have to worry that something will be mixed up.

Understanding the connection is easy even for those who have no experience in electrical work.

Video: Scheme for connecting pass-through switches.

What limits the number of walk-through switches

There are no hard limits on the number of on and off points. But you need to remember the basic principles of electrical equipment.The more connections, the more resistance to the passage of current is formed and the higher the voltage loss. In long chains, this can manifest itself strongly.

Therefore, systems usually use from 2 to 5 elements. Moreover, if there are more than two devices, then cross switches are needed, which have not three, but four contacts for connection. They are placed between the walk-through options and ensure the normal operation of lighting. The connection diagram for this option is shown below.

Cross switches allow you to increase the number of control points to any number.

Types of switches and their designation on the diagrams

Products can be divided into different groups depending on the design and features of use. Main options:

1. Mechanical - the simplest and most reliable devices in which the circuit closes and opens by pressing a key.
2. Semiconductor, the most common sensory options. They are triggered by the touch of a finger and look modern. There are also models with a remote control, they are convenient because you can control the light from anywhere in the room.

According to the number of independent loads controlled by the switch, 2 types can be distinguished:

1. single line. The simplest devices with one key.
2. Multiline, they can have 2 or more keys.

Cross models are a type of pass-through switch, so they also belong to the equipment group under consideration.

As for the designation on the diagrams, all options are shown below. It is not difficult to distinguish a pass-through switch from a standard one.

A symbol with protrusions on both sides means a through switch.

Benefits of pass-through options

The use of such a system provides a number of advantages:

1. Ease of control, as you can turn the light on and off from different places.
2. Saving electricity. Due to the fact that the lighting turns on at the entrance and turns off at the exit, less electricity is consumed.
3. Ease of installation. Put the pass-through switches under the force of almost any person.
4. No settings are required, after connecting the wires, the system immediately works.

Touch options work by touch.

Well-known manufacturers of pass-through switches

There are many options on the market, the products of the following companies have proven themselves best:

1. Legrand. A French company that produces many types of equipment, characterized by reliability and ease of connection.
2. ABB. A joint company from Sweden and Switzerland, producing high-quality electrical equipment.
3. Schneider. Another manufacturer of quality products from France.
4. Gira. German brand with a large assortment and high quality.
5. Vico. A Turkish manufacturer that makes good switches for a small price.

Recommended for viewing: what is the difference between a pass-through switch and a conventional one.

Deal with the design features of the pass-through switch and self-deliver it won't be difficult. The main thing is to study the diagram in order to correctly connect the wires in the junction box and at the switch terminals.