Changeover and pass-through switch. Pass-through switch - purpose, connection diagram and principle of operation (100 photos)

A bright highlight in the interior will be cement lamps. New, original solutions will decorate and provide high-quality lighting to the required space. For ease of control of original lighting solutions, it is worth providing pass-through switches when designing and installing electrical wiring.

When it becomes necessary to turn on/off the same light source from different places, a pass-through switch is used. Based on the functions it performs, it would be more correct to call it a switch; then it will become more clear why. The pass-through switch also has other names: crossover, redundant and changeover switch.

Having looked at the photos of pass-through switches, you will not find any external difference from the standard one. The main difference between a walk-through switch and a standard switch is that it does not have a specific position for turning on or off. To understand the differences in operating principles, you can find a photo of the connection diagram for pass-through switches and a conventional one and compare them.

When used, the network is simply closed/opened, and the pass-through depends on the use of two. Having examined the diagram, you will notice the presence of three terminals: for the phase, and two “control” lines. And accordingly, when the state of one of the switches is switched, the light turns off/on.

Attention! During repairs, you need to remember that one wire between the switches is always live.

Scope of application of pass-through switch

They are used in large rooms or extended premises with various entrances. The main advantage of their use is the ability to turn on/off lights and electrical appliances from different places. It is very convenient to use a pass-through switch on flights of stairs. It is also possible to install a switch in the bedroom so that you can turn on the light when entering the room, and turn it off in bed.

Varieties and symbols on diagrams

There are different types of switches depending on the usage conditions. For installation in the wall and outside - the 2nd option is considered better, due to the fact that over time there will be no fading of the connecting signal. To be able to turn on several light sources from one place, double ones, etc. are used. switch options.

If there is a need to switch light from 3 or more places, it is necessary to use a connection diagram with the simultaneous use of pass-through and cross-type switches.

According to the control option, they, like standard ones, can be keyboard, touch or with remote control. In the diagrams they are designated as usual ones only with a scan in both directions.

Connecting a pass-through switch to 2 points

Due to the need to use more wires, the complexity of the connection increases. The connection diagram is as follows. Phase and neutral are supplied to the junction box from the power source.

The zero wire is sent directly to the light source, and the phase to the switch. Inside the switch there is a division into 2 lines, which are sent further to the junction box and then go to the second switch. And after this, the wire is connected to the lamp.

It is possible to save on the amount of wire by connecting the “control” lines directly, but a competent electrician will not do this for the following reasons:

• connection using a junction box is more correct in connection with the requirements for electrical circuits;
• ease of repair. It is possible to test wires in sections to identify faults;
• will simplify the installation of connecting an additional switch.

Scheme for connecting the 3rd and subsequent switches

According to the connection diagram, when using 2 switches, it becomes clear that pass-through switches can only be used in pairs and it will no longer be possible to connect a third such equipment.

This problem is solved by using a crossover (reversing) switch - it does not differ in appearance, but uses four terminals for connection.

As the name implies, its main purpose is to swap connected wires. To understand the principle of operation, it is best to look at a connection diagram with 3 or more switches.

Conclusion

We hope that thanks to this article the principle of operation has become clear. pass-through switch and ways to connect it to the electrical network.

And now it has become clear how to connect a pass-through switch with your own hands with minimal electrical skills. If you are not confident in your abilities self-connection It is better to entrust it to professionals.

Photos of pass-through switches

Pass-through switch - the very name of this type of electrical device already shows their true purpose. The devices belong to the family of standard household switches, familiar to all residential property owners.

Actually, the design of the devices externally resembles the traditional design. The only difference is how to connect the pass-through switch, the contact group diagram of which is slightly different.

Let's figure out together what rules should be followed when connecting a pass-through switch, and what actions should be abandoned.

The convenience and practicality of this type of device are obvious. Electricity of the net, equipped with such communicators, are operated more efficiently, since in the end there are actual energy savings.

For example, to cross a long corridor, the lighting is turned on at the entrance and turned off at the exit. This function is implemented by just two devices mounted at different ends of the corridor.

This is what it is - a pass-through switch, which is actively increasing the degree of competition in relation to its relative - a conventional device. This seemingly slightly modified model gives the user more benefits

If we compare the design with a conventional on/off device, the difference is noted in the number of working contacts of the devices. The design of a simple switch provides only the closing/opening of two contacts.

Wiring the connection of a pass-through switch involves creating three workers lines, of which one is common, and the other two are transfer lines. This makes it possible to manage the site electrical circuit from various points.

All the subtleties of selection and types of pass-through switches are described.

Operating principle of the single-key model

Actually, the principle of the function looks simple and clear. The changeover contacts existing in the design in the first position close one segment of the circuit and open the other, and in the second position of the changeover contacts the circuit is inverted.

If we refer to the installation diagram of a single-key pass-through switch, which is contained on its body, the user’s actions boil down to the following:

1. The first (C) contact is connected to a common line.
2. Changeover segments are connected to the second (P) and third (P) contacts.
3. Install two devices at previously designated points.

The changeover contacts (P) of the two switches, identical in number, are connected to one another by conductors. The first (common - Common) contacts of the two devices are connected - one with the phase wire, the second with the “zero” wire through the lamp lamp.

The operation of the circuit is tested as follows:

1. The mounted section of the circuit is provided with voltage.
2. Switch the key of the first switch to the “On” mode.
3. The lighting lamp lights up.
4. Follow to the location of the second device.
5. Change the current position of the key of the second device.
6. The lighting lamp turns off.

Now, if you do all the operations in reverse order, the effect of the lighting system will be similar. This confirms the normal operation of the circuit.

How to do the actual installation?

Before you begin installing an apartment (or other) walk-through switch, it is recommended to draw a wiring diagram, something like this:

Products are produced for external (surface) installation and devices for use in hidden wiring networks. There is a wide choice of load capacities, and the variety of colors and designs also does not limit user needs.

Circuit solutions for practical operation

The most commonly used circuits for connecting pass-through devices are, as a rule, circuits for one-, two-, devices. The single-key option was discussed above.

Therefore, let’s see what the step-by-step instructions for connecting a two-key device look like.

1. It is necessary to schematically outline the installation of the system.
2. Carry out work on installing the switchgear and socket boxes.
3. Install the required number of light groups.
4. Lay out the network taking into account the supply of phase, neutral, and grounding conductors.
5. Connect the separated conductors according to the drawn diagram.

Attention should be paid not only to purely electrical installation work, but also to work technical plan. For example, it is recommended to pay great attention to the installation of socket boxes.

These elements must be securely fastened to the wall so that in the future they provide no less reliable fastening of the devices.

There is a three-point communication system, which is based on creating a system that allows you to control a light group of three points separated at a distance. The elemental base consists of three devices, of which two are and one is cross-device.

A widespread version of the three-point circuit: N – electrical zero; L – electrical phase; PV1 – first two-key switch; PV2 – second two-key switch; PV3 – crossover switch

A kind of connection instruction in this case looks something like this:

1. A wiring and connection diagram is created.
2. Work is underway to install the distribution box and socket boxes.
3. Three-core electrical cables are laid in the amount of 4 pieces.
4. Electrical installation is carried out - connection according to the diagram.

This option for creating a communication power network looks somewhat complicated. As is clear even from laying the cables, you will have to deal with a total of 12 conductors. Regular pass-through switches require 6 wires, while a crossover switch requires 8 wires.

A phase line is connected to the common terminal of any of the two-key switches. The line of the light group is connected to the common line of the second two-key switch. The remaining conductors are connected according to the contact numbers according to the schematic diagram.

Touch switch models

In addition to keyboard and lever modifications, there are touch-sensitive models on the market. In essence, the functions of the devices are the same, but the principle of operation, as well as the design, are somewhat different.

Modern modification – sensory model, which has a more convenient operating principle. In addition, this type of household communicators has an increased service life due to the absence of mechanics in the design

There are two types of touch switches:

1. Direct sensors.
2. Touch sensors with dimmers.

The first ones work on direct, clear contact through a brief touch of the fingertip to the glass panel of the device. That is, in this option only the on/off function works. The second design option (dimmer) provides switching on and off with smooth control of the brightness of the lamps.

To work with these devices, the same finger touch is required, followed by holding the fingertip on the glass until the required brightness of the lamp is achieved.

Rear view of the touch device, where the connection terminals are located: COM – synchronizing connector for working in pairs with other devices; L – contact for the network phase; L1 – first output channel; L2 – second output channel

The circuitry of sensor devices differs from devices of other designs in that it contains one common (phase) terminal (L), two changeover terminals (L1, L2) and one “COM” terminal.

The "COM" contact is used for communication between switches when building complex circuits. For example, with control of several lighting zones from three or more points. In this case, a load power of no more than 1 kW is allowed per light zone.

The classic version of circuit wiring with one sensor device: N – electrical zero; L – electrical phase; L1 – load of the first channel; L2 – load of the second channel

A simple organization of a control system with one sensor device is performed as follows:

1. The phase line is connected to the “L” terminal.
2. Line "L1" forms one lighting zone.
3. Line "L2" forms the second lighting zone.

If a group of devices is used, the phase contacts of the devices (L) are connected in parallel, plus the “COM” terminals are connected to each other. All other terminals are connected as standard depending on the number of switched light zones.

To touch devices functioned correctly, they need to be programmed. Essentially, we are talking about synchronizing all switches in a group. Programming is performed in the following sequence:

1. Touch the sensor for 5 seconds. before sound signal(or LED flashing).
2. After the beep, release the touch and move on to the next device.
3. Touching the sensor of the second device.
4. If the LED on the front panel responds with short flashes, success.
5. Cancel synchronization - touch the sensor for 10 seconds.

For touch structures there are some installation restrictions.

For example, the maximum permissible distance from switch to switch must be at least 30 m.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Theoretical information on how a pass-through switch is installed in a room:

These are the seriously modified electrical components that the familiar electrical switches look like. Now these are no longer just switches for electric lamps screwed into chandelier sockets.

These devices can be successfully used to control other objects. For example, performing work on raising and lowering curtains on the windows of an apartment.

If you have had to install a pass-through switch yourself in your own home, please share your experience with our readers. Tell us how you implemented this task in practice. Leave your comments in the block below. There you can ask questions about the topic of the article, and we will try to answer them promptly.

A practical walk-through switch, the connection diagram of which is quite accessible for independent installation, allows you to control the lighting system from two or more places.

However, when connecting such a device, you must remember that all switches of this type can only be used in conjunction with other devices of a similar purpose.

Pair-of-way switching devices or “pass-through” switches refer to devices that close a specific circuit in different positions.

When two lamps are connected to them, in one of the positions the operation of the first light source is ensured, and in the other the operation of the second lighting device is ensured.

Such switches have three connectors for connection and, as a rule, are used in feed-through circuits if it is necessary to connect two independent switches for one consumer.

A valuable advantage of a pass-through switch is the ability to control the operation of any number of lamps from several points. In this case, for example, the traditional, most common switches, simply interrupt the electrical circuit by opening it.

Pass-through single devices are equipped with three contacts, which makes them switchable. According to its operating principle, such a switching device is a system based on a pair of switches mounted in the most convenient places for operation. Thanks to this feature, the consumer can turn on the lighting from one place and then turn it off at a completely different point.

If the pass-through switch is equipped with several keys and belongs to the multi-key category, then the number of contacts and switching circuits increases many times, and control can be carried out for two or more groups of lighting devices.

Operating principle of a pass-through switch

It is important to remember that the basis of the operating principle of any pass-through type switches is the switching process based on reversing conductors. Inside the distribution box, such elements are combined using standard terminals. Each switching device must have a power supply conductor, and the second switch, in this case, is used to connect the wired element to the lighting.

The presence of a phase on two conductors requires the mandatory use of exclusively three-wire wire, and when installing a lighting system on three control points, it will be necessary to use four-wire wiring.

According to the control method, all currently produced switching devices belonging to the “pass-through” type are, as a rule, represented by easy-to-use, key-based devices.

Scope of use

Pass-through switches are in demand when arranging a lighting system in the following cases:

• long corridors in which one of the switches is mounted at the beginning of the room, and the other is installed at the end;
• multi-storey residential buildings or public buildings;
• interfloor staircase space, allowing the installation of switching devices on different floors;
• bedrooms, where switches are installed next to the doorway, as well as above or next to the sleeping area.

Pass-through switches are especially in demand in street lighting, as well as for providing comfortable lighting in basements, terraces, verandas or gazebos.

Kinds

The choice of feed-through switching devices is not very extensive, however, when selecting optimal option it is necessary to take into account the specific features of such switching devices.

The basic classification of pass-through switches does not differ significantly from the characteristics of traditional type switches, therefore such devices can be:

• single-key devices with one input and two outputs;
• two-key devices with two inputs and four outputs;
• three-key devices, with three inputs and six outputs.

Depending on the type of control, pass-through switching devices can be different, but the most common are keypad, touchscreen and remote-controlled models. It should be noted that when choosing, you need to take into account the number of keys, which must fully correspond to the number of groups of lamps that can be turned on simultaneously.

It is important to remember that the use of single-key or two-key cross-type switches for two inputs and the same number of outputs is advisable when controlling lighting from three or more points.

How to connect a pass-through switch: connection diagram

Automatic switching on and off of lighting fixtures can easily be organized using special timers or sensors that can respond to movement.

However, such electronic type devices are different high cost, the complexity of independent connection and insufficient durability, so it is much easier and more practical to install a pass-through switch yourself.

Connection diagram for single-key pass-through switch

At the stage of preparation for installation, it is necessary not only to calculate the number of consumers and the amount of consumables, but also to prepare all the tools necessary for installation, presented:

• Phillips screwdriver;
• flat-head screwdriver;
• mounting knife;
• side cutters;
• building level and tape measure;
• a probe screwdriver with a built-in phase indicator.

Set of working tools and basic Supplies may vary depending on the chosen method for laying cable ducts, as well as depending on the characteristics of construction and finishing materials in the room where the lighting system is supposed to be installed.

Connection diagram for pass-through switch

In wooden households, in order to prevent accidents and fire hazards, cables must be installed inside a copper or steel pipe. It is also possible to carry out open installation of electrical wiring.

It should be noted that corrugated polymer and metal tubes is prohibited, according to the standards established by PTEEP and PUE, and cable laying in non-combustible structures is carried out by cutting special channels.

Lighting control

Depending on the type of lighting system preferred, the wiring is connected different ways. Although design features All standard pass-through switches are of the same type; there are several differences in the connection diagram of the system with control of two and three places.

Before you begin self-installation, you must turn off the electrical power supply, which is dictated by safety regulations.

Control from 2 places

Controlling the light from two places is often a very convenient solution.

This method of organizing the control of lighting devices is most often used when it is necessary to control the process of turning on/off light sources not only from the room itself, but also from adjacent rooms.

In this case, as a rule, preference is given to installing switching devices to control a couple of consumer groups:

• thorough removal of decorative coatings in the wiring area;
• marking the proposed wiring line;
• scoring according to the markings made, starting from the shield, taking into account the free distance to the upper edge of the cable channel with dimensions of ½ the diameter of the laid wires;
• checking the horizontality of the completed lines;
• laying electrical cable. It is quite possible to fix laid electrical wires with special fasteners without damaging the protective sheath;
• installation of switches and distribution boxes;
• connecting laid electrical conductors to terminals in accordance with color markings.

Lighting control scheme from two places

The assembled wiring is inserted into special mounting boxes, after which they are securely and durablely fixed with built-in retractable mechanisms with pointed elements.

Only after testing has been carried out and the operability of the entire lighting system has been confirmed, cable channels are cemented, wall surfaces are finished and frames are installed.

Control from 3 seats

Independent installation of control from three places is a more complex system that can cause some difficulties for untrained installers. The most common electrical circuit is based on one crossover and a pair of pass-through switches.

Work technology:

• preliminary preparation of grooves for laying electrical cables using a hammer drill;
• laying electrical cables with an optimal cross-section of 2.5 mm 2 or more;
• connecting wires to the electrical panel;
• choose the optimal height for mounting the switch that is comfortable for operating the switching device;
• Drill a hole in accordance with a pre-made mark, which is one and a half times larger in width and depth than the diameter of the device being installed;
• electrical wiring is connected to the switching device from below, so the groove must be made 50-100 cm lower than the installation point of the switch;
• laying electrical wires in prepared grooves with fixing the wiring elements using small special nails;
• insertion of electrical wires fixed in the channels into the installation box;
• cutting the wires inside the wiring box to a length of 10-11 cm using side cutters;
• removing approximately 10-15 cm of the insulating layer from the wires;
• installation of a pass-through switching device (switch) with connection to the terminals, according to their markings;
• installation of a cross-switching device with four electrical cables of the corresponding color marking;
• connecting the first pair of electrical cables from the pass-through switch to the upper terminals, and the remaining two wires are fixed to the lower terminals;
• connecting the last switching device using wires coming from the communication crossover device.

Connection from three places

At the final stage, it is necessary to carefully insert the device mechanisms inside all the completed mounting boxes, bending the cables to their base. Then the devices are fixed using special fasteners inside the mounting box or “claws” on the clamps. Next, the frame is applied, and then the keys of the switching device are mounted.

Wiring when controlling the lamp from three places

The completion of self-installation of a switch to control the lighting system from three different points is the connection of lighting fixtures with electrical cables coming from the junction box, checking the functionality of the circuit and subsequent decorative finishing.

When choosing such a device, you need to take into account the design features, as well as their functional purpose.

In order to implement various schemes for controlling electrical energy consumers, double or triple type switches are used, as well as standard crossover devices.

If there are long corridors in a house or apartment, then a pass-through switch will significantly simplify the lighting system. – procedure for installation work.

The rules for measuring current with a multimeter are outlined.

Among other things, depending on the installation method, switching feed-through devices can be installed internally or externally. In this case, it is necessary to take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of such methods.

Most often, internal installation is used, which is reliable, aesthetically pleasing and guaranteed safety. In any case, the main condition correct installation and safe operation is strict adherence to the entire lighting connection diagram.

Video on the topic

Current electricity prices make you think about saving where you never even thought about it before. For example, lighting on the stairs. It doesn’t matter if it’s in a private or multi-storey building, you still need to pay. Previously, they simply left the light on. Today you think about turning it off, but running up and down is also not fun. It turns out there is a solution. To prevent the lights from being on constantly, there are schemes for controlling the lamps from several places. That is, one or more lamps can be turned on and off from several points. Special switches are needed for this. They are called walk-throughs. Sometimes the names “duplicate” or “change-over” are found. All this is one type of electrical equipment. Different from the usual a large number contacts. Accordingly, the connection diagram for the pass-through switch is more complicated. However, you can figure it out.

What does a pass-through switch look like and work?

If we talk about the front side, the only difference is: a barely noticeable arrow on the up and down key.

If we talk about electrical diagram, everything is also simple: in ordinary switches there are only two contacts, in pass-through switches (also called changeover contacts) there are three contacts, two of which are common. There are always two or more such devices in the circuit, and they are switched using these common wires.

The difference is in the number of contacts

The operating principle is simple. By changing the position of the key, the input is connected to one of the outputs. That is, these devices have only two working positions:

• input connected to output 1;
• input is connected to output 2.

There are no other intermediate provisions. Thanks to this, everything works. Because the contact switches from one position to another, electricians believe it is more correct to call them “switches.” So a pass-through switch is also this device.

In order not to rely on the presence or absence of arrows on the keys, you need to inspect the contact part. Branded products should have a diagram on them that allows you to understand what type of equipment you have in your hands. It is definitely found on products from Lezard, Legrand, and Viko. They are often absent on Chinese copies.

If there is no such diagram, look at the terminals (copper contacts in the holes): there should be three of them. But not always on inexpensive copies the terminal that stands alone is the input. They are often confused. To find where the common contact is located, you need to ring the contacts with each other at different key positions. This must be done, otherwise nothing will work, and the device itself may burn out.

You will need a tester or multimeter. If you have a multimeter, set it to sound mode - it beeps when there is contact. If you have a pointer tester, ring for a short circuit. Place the probe on one of the contacts, find which of the two it rings with (the device beeps or the arrow shows a short circuit - it deviates to the right all the way). Without changing the position of the probes, change the position of the key. If the short circuit is missing, one of these two is common. Now all that remains is to check which one. Without switching the key, move one of the probes to another contact. If there is a short circuit, then the contact from which the probe was not moved is the common one (this is the input).

It may become clearer if you watch a video on how to find the input (common contact) for a pass-through switch.

Connection diagram for a pass-through switch from two places

This scheme is convenient in a two-story house on the stairs, in a passage room, in a long corridor. You can also use it in the bedroom - turn off the overhead light at the entrance and near the bed (how many times did you have to get up to turn it on/off?).

Zero and ground (if any) are connected directly to the lamp. The phase is supplied to the output of the first switch, the input of the second is connected to the free wire of the lamp, the outputs of the two devices are connected to each other.

Looking at this diagram, it is easy to understand how the pass-through switch works. In the position shown in the figure, the lamp is on. By pressing the key of any of the devices, we break the chain. In the same way, when in the off position, by moving any of them to another position, we will close the circuit through one of the jumpers and the lamp will light up.

To make it clearer what to connect to what, and how to lay the wires, here are a few images.

If we talk about the room, then you need to lay the wires approximately as in the photo below. According to modern rules, all of them should be located at a distance of 15 cm from the ceiling. They can be placed in mounting boxes or trays; the ends of the wires are inserted into mounting boxes. This is convenient: if necessary, you can replace the broken wire. Also, according to the latest standards, all connections occur only in installation boxes and using contactors. If you make twists, it is better to solder them and wrap them well with electrical tape on top.

The return wire of the lamp is connected to the output of the second switch. White indicates the wires connecting the outputs of both devices.

How to connect everything in the terminal box is described in the video.

3 point circuit

To be able to turn the light on/off from three places, you need to buy a cross (cross) switch for two switches. It differs from those described earlier by the presence of two inputs and two outputs. It switches a couple of contacts at once. See the figure for how everything should be organized. If you understand the above, this one is easy to understand.

How to assemble such a circuit? Here's the procedure:

1. Zero (and ground, if any) is connected directly to the lamp.
2. The phase is connected to the input of one of the pass-through switches (with three inputs).
3. The input of the second is fed to the free wire of the lamp.
4. The two outputs of one three-pin device are connected to the input of a crossover switch (with four inputs).
5. The two outputs of the second three-pin device are connected to the second pair of switch contacts with four inputs.

The same diagram, but from a different perspective - where to connect the wires on the housings.

And this is approximately how to distribute it around the room.

If you need a circuit with four, five or more points, then it differs only in the number of cross switches (for four inputs/outputs). There are always two switches (with three inputs/outputs) in any circuit - at the very beginning and at the very end of the circuit. All other elements are cross devices.

Remove one “crossbar” and you get a four-point control scheme. Add more and there will be a scheme for 6 control places.

To finally get it all in your head, watch this video.

Two-key pass-through switch: connection diagram

To control the lighting of two lamps (or groups of lamps) from one switch from several places, there are two-key pass-through switches. They have six contacts. If necessary, find the common wires using the same principle as in a conventional device of this type, you just have to call large quantity wires

The connection diagram for a 2-key pass-through switch differs only in that there will be more wires: the phase must be supplied to both inputs of the first switch, just as from the two inputs of the second it must go to two lamps (or two groups of lamps, if we are talking about a multi-arm chandelier ).

If you need to organize control of two light sources from three or more points, you will have to install two cross switches at each point: there are simply no two-key switches. In this case, one pair of contacts is placed on one crossbar, the second on the other. And then, if necessary, they are connected to each other. The outputs of both crossbars are connected to the last two-key transition switch in the chain.

How to organize control of two lamps from four places

If you think about it, everything is not so complicated, and the connection diagram for a pass-through switch from 2 points is generally simple. Just a lot of wires...

When organizing lighting in places where it is necessary to control a light source from three or more places, intermediate or cross switches are used. This type switching devices are not used separately, but only with at least two pass-through switches. Installing and connecting them has its own characteristics that you should be aware of. Next, readers of the site will be provided with instructions that clearly explain how to connect a cross light switch from three or more places.

Application of cross switch

Installation of such a device is necessary, for example, if you need to illuminate a long room, corridor, tunnel, and the entrance to it can be made from three or more doors. In this case, each person who comes in can, by moving his hand and pressing the button of the switch installed at each of their entrances, turn on the source of artificial light and, after moving to another door, turn off the same lamp using another switch located near the doors through which he exited.

Thus, any other sequence is possible, but in any case a person can control one lamp or a whole group of light sources from three places. If there are more entrances and exits in the tunnel, then additional intermediate crossover switches can be installed near them. This will not change the essence and performance of the lighting system, only the number of switching devices will increase.

Design features

Structurally, a cross switch with one key is a compact switching device that operates from mechanical impact on him. At the same time, the same touch-sensitive switching elements are also available for sale; they do not have a key, but only a touch button, but the essence of the device’s operation remains the same. Only the mechanism of action changes, and contact Group and the principle of operation remains the same. The crossover switch consists of:

• output contact terminals for connecting wires;
• wall mounting mechanism;
• conductive jumpers located inside the housing;
• contact groups;
• mechanism of influence on the contact switching group.

According to the installation method, these switches are divided, like all others, into those intended for open (external) and hidden (laid inside walls) wiring. That is, the design can be of two types: overhead and built-in.

Very rarely, in exceptional cases, hybrid wiring is used, when the entire cable line is laid in a hidden way inside the walls, and the switches are installed externally, that is, of the overhead type. This special case occurs when it is not possible to make niches for trimmers or their implementation is problematic.

Cross switches look like ordinary pass-through switches and do not have a clear on or off position. Their difference is:

1. There are four contact terminals for connection. If there are two control keys, then the number of terminals is multiplied by two.
2. Pair markings - input and output.
3. Inability to be used separately, but only with a pair.

By the way, these switches can be equipped not only with a key, but also with a rotary mechanism. In it, the contacts are closed due to a special rotating mechanism. The principle of operation and the number of terminals do not change. They cost a little more, as they are considered design elements of decor, which are most often used during installation.

Rules for connecting an intermediate switch

Before proceeding directly to the installation and connection of cross intermediate switches, you need to clearly understand the danger of electrical voltage in circuits with improper switching. All work should be carried out only with the mains voltage turned off, and also after checking that it is not present on the live parts of the cable to which the connection will be made.

To install a cross switch you will need:

• Distribution boxes, their number depends on the area where you need to carry out this system lighting control. The rules here are similar to conventional wiring, that is, all wire connections are made only in junction boxes.
• Cable products, that is, wires. Their cross section depends on the power of the light source, and the number of cores depends on the presence or absence of grounding on the lamps. To connect between the switches you will need a three-core wire and a four-core wire, preferably, of course, with copper wires and multi-colored markings.

So, by and large, the cross lighting switch is the connecting link between two pass-through switches, if it concerns control from three places.

Connection diagram for a crossover switch with feedthroughs:

The three-core wire is connected to the first junction box, two of which are phase and neutral, and the third is ground. The control of turning the lamp on and off is carried out by breaking and switching along the necessary circuits of the phase wire. The zero is connected directly to the light source.

From the first distribution box (if there are several of them), the phase wire must be connected to the pass-through switch, where it bifurcates due to the design of the device itself.

The next step is to install and connect the wire coming from the first pass-through switch to the crossover switch. At this stage, it is worth carefully examining the markings and connecting it specifically to the input of the switch, which may be indicated by the corresponding arrows.

The output of the cross switch must be connected to the pass-through through the mounting or distribution box; here, too, you must follow the markings according to the diagram and arrows marked on the device. If they are worn out or illegible, it is recommended to use a multimeter or a continuity test to find out where which terminals are, so that after installation and connection to the power supply network, you can be sure that the work was done correctly. Incorrect connection will lead to an emergency and short circuit, and this is fraught with fire.

The single terminal of the pass-through switch is also directed through the distribution box to the light source. From it to the lamp itself you will also need a three-core wire.

The video below clearly shows how to connect a crossover switch and 2 pass-through switches:

Features of installing a two-key switch

A two-key cross or intermediate switch makes it possible to separately control two groups of lamps or any light sources. The peculiarity of the connection diagram is that it is installed only in a circuit with pass-through elements, which also have two keys for turning the load on and off.

Connection diagram for an intermediate switch with two keys:

The two-key crossover switch design has four inputs and four outputs, essentially two single-key switching devices in one housing. Therefore, the choice of conductor cross-section and installation principles are identical. It should be noted that such devices are used extremely rarely; most often, users need to illuminate long corridors or stairs and control one lamp or one group of lighting fixtures, and for this, 1 crossover and 2 pass-through switches equipped with one single button are sufficient.

Four-seat control scheme

This control circuit does not have any major features, except that the cross switches must be intermediate and installed in series with each other, between the pass-through elements for switching on the lighting.

Connection diagram for two cross switches:

It should be noted that all of the above schemes work equally with any type of lamp, and the grounding wire is an element of human protection in case of insulation breakdown. must be performed according to the appropriate rules, the main thing in this is its reliability and durability without oxidation and deterioration of contact.

Now you know how to connect the crossover switch to the feedthroughs. We hope the installation diagrams and video tutorials provided helped you understand the correct wiring!