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Single-pole, Single-throw

The single-pole, single-throw (SPST) switch functions as a basic single-circuit 'on'/'off' switch.

Single-pole, Double-throw

The single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) switch functions as a single-circuit two-way switch. This type of switch is sometimes referred to as a single-pole changeover switch.

Double-pole, Single-throw

The double-pole, single-throw switch functions as a two-circuit 'on'/'off' switch.

Double-pole, Double-throw

The double-pole, double-throw switch functions as a two-circuit two-way switch. This type of switch is sometimes referred to as a double-pole changeover switch.

Multi-pole, Multi-way

Complex circuits may require switches that can switch more than two ways or have more than two poles. These switches are called multi-pole, multi-way switches.

Commonly available types include:

  • Two-pole, three-way (2P 3W)
  • Four-pole, two-way (4P 2W)
  • Three-pole, four-way (3P 4W)
  • Four-pole, three-way (4P 3W)
  • Two-pole, six-way (2P 6W)
  • One-pole, twelve-way (1P 12W)

Push-button Switches

Push-button switches (which may be either momentary or latching types) are available in normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC) types. The contacts of a normally open switch become closed when the switch is operated while those of a normally closed switch become opened when the switch is operated.

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Page last modified on July 21, 2011, at 10:05 AM