Switches are an essential component of electrical circuits. They allow the control of the flow of current and, as such, enable the functioning of various electrical devices. One of the most commonly used types of switches is the four-pole switch. This type of switch comprises four terminals, each of which plays a unique role in controlling the flow of current.
What is a 4 Pole Switch?
A four-pole switch is a type of switch that has four terminals, each of which is used to control the flow of electrical current. Each terminal is assigned a specific role, and it is the combination of the different settings of these terminals that determines the functioning of the device being controlled.
There are different types of four-pole switches, each with unique wiring diagrams depending on its intended use. In this article, we will look at the most common types of four-pole switches and their wiring diagrams.
The Types of Four Pole Switches
The Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) Switch
The most common four-pole switch is the Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT) switch. This switch has two input terminals and four output terminals, two for each pole. It allows the control of two independent circuits using a single switch. The wiring diagram for this switch is as follows:
| Terminal | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pole 1 Input |
| 2 | Pole 2 Input |
| 3 | Pole 1 Output 1 |
| 4 | Pole 1 Output 2 |
| 5 | Pole 2 Output 1 |
| 6 | Pole 2 Output 2 |
When the switch is in the OFF position, both input terminals are disconnected from all output terminals, and no current can flow. When the switch is in the ON position, each input terminal is connected to its respective output terminal, allowing current to flow through the circuit.
The DPDT switch is commonly used in applications such as motor control, where it allows the direction of the motor to be reversed by switching the polarity of the input voltage.
The Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST) Switch
The Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST) switch is another type of four-pole switch. It has two input terminals and four output terminals, with both poles connected to a single output terminal. The wiring diagram for this switch is as follows:
| Terminal | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pole 1 Input |
| 2 | Pole 2 Input |
| 3 | Pole 1 Output (connected to pole 2 output) |
| 4 | Pole 2 Output (connected to pole 1 output) |
When the switch is in the OFF position, both input terminals are disconnected from the output terminals, and no current can flow. When the switch is in the ON position, both poles are connected to the output terminal, allowing current to flow through the circuit.
The DPST switch is commonly used for controlling light fixtures, where it allows the control of multiple bulbs from a single switch.
The Four Pole, Double Throw (FPDT) Switch
The Four Pole, Double Throw (FPDT) switch is a more complex four-pole switch. It has four input terminals and eight output terminals, with two outputs for each pole. The wiring diagram for this switch is as follows:
| Terminal | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | Pole 1 Input |
| 2 | Pole 2 Input |
| 3 | Pole 3 Input |
| 4 | Pole 4 Input |
| 5 | Pole 1 Output 1 |
| 6 | Pole 1 Output 2 |
| 7 | Pole 2 Output 1 |
| 8 | Pole 2 Output 2 |
| 9 | Pole 3 Output 1 |
| 10 | Pole 3 Output 2 |
| 11 | Pole 4 Output 1 |
| 12 | Pole 4 Output 2 |
When the switch is in the OFF position, all input terminals are disconnected from all output terminals, and no current can flow. When the switch is in the ON position, each input terminal is connected to its respective pair of output terminals, allowing current to flow through the circuit.
The FPDT switch is commonly used in applications such as audio equipment, where it allows the selection of different inputs and outputs.
FAQs
What is a 4 pole switch used for?
A 4 pole switch is used to control the flow of current in electrical circuits. It is commonly used in applications such as motor control and lighting control.
What is the difference between a DPDT switch and a DPST switch?
The DPDT switch has two input terminals and four output terminals, with each pole connected to two output terminals. The DPST switch has two input terminals and four output terminals, with both poles connected to a single output terminal.
What is the difference between an FPDT switch and a DPDT switch?
The FPDT switch has four input terminals and eight output terminals, with each pole connected to two output terminals. The DPDT switch has two input terminals and four output terminals, with each pole connected to two output terminals.
What kind of wiring is used for four pole switches?
Four pole switches can be wired using a variety of wiring techniques, including soldering, crimping, and screw connections. The specific technique used will depend on the type of switch and the application it is being used for.
Where can I buy a 4 pole switch?
Four pole switches can be purchased from a variety of electronics suppliers and retailers.
Can I wire a 4 pole switch myself?
Wiring a four pole switch can be a complex process and should only be attempted by individuals with the necessary knowledge and experience. It is essential to follow the wiring diagram specific to the type of switch being used to ensure that the switch functions correctly.
In conclusion, four pole switches are an essential component of electrical circuits. Understanding the different types of four pole switches and their wiring diagrams is crucial for anyone working with electrical devices.
