In this article, you’ll learn how to wire a two-way switch with the help of a diagram and a SPDT toggle switch example. Two-way switch wiring is extremely common — it’s frequently used to control a light from two different places — but you should consult a professional before beginning the installation process.
How To Wire A Two-Way Switch: SPDT Toggle
A switch is an electromechanical device used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit. When the switch is in the “OFF” or “open” position, there’s no flow of electricity. When the switch is in the “ON” or “closed” position, electricity flows — switches effectively “make” or “break” the circuit.
A switch typically includes an actuator, a moving contact, terminals and a housing case. There are many different types of switches — toggle, tactile, pushbutton, rocker, etc. — but all switches perform the same task of either interrupting or diverting the flow of electric current.
For our example, we’ll learn about the wiring of a two-way connection, which is a standard Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) configuration with three terminals, by using our ST1 Series high current, power toggle switch (PN ST125D00 pictured below).
With Single Pole functionality and solder lug termination, the terminals correspond to the switch’s “ON-OFF-ON” functions (position one is “ON,” position two is “OFF,” position three is “ON”). This type of connection is referred to as “break before make” since the first connection has to be broken before making the second connection.
In a one-way configuration, the wiring is quite simple. The live wire goes to the common terminal (Position Two) and the wire going to the light is connected to Position One (or Position Three, this only changes which side is the “ON” side).
In a two-way configuration, the wiring is a little more complicated. The main live wire goes to the common terminal (Position Two) of one switch and the wire going to the light is connected to the common terminal (Position Two) of the other switch. Then the Position One and Position Three terminals from one switch are connected to the Position One and Position Three terminals on the other switch.
How to Wire a Two-Way Switch Diagram: SPDT Toggle
Looking to save time and money on your assembly process? ST1 Series switches (and all of E-Switch’s panel mount products) are now available with prewired leads. Reach out to us for more information!
Browse E-Switch’s complete selection of toggle switches by following this link, or you can take a look at our complete product catalog right here.
