A selector switch is a device that is commonly used in industrial applications to control the direction of flow of electrical current. It is a crucial element in any electrical circuit, as it determines which circuit is active at any given time. However, wiring a selector switch can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with electrical wiring. In this article, we will discuss how to wire a selector switch in 3 positions.
What is a Selector Switch?
A selector switch is a type of switch that is used to select between a number of options in an electrical circuit. It has multiple positions, each of which corresponds to a different circuit. When the switch is set to a particular position, the corresponding circuit is activated, and the others are deactivated. Selector switches come in different types and configurations, including rotary, toggle, and push-button switches.
Types of Selector Switches
There are several types of selector switches, including:
- Rotary switches
- Toggle switches
- Push-button switches
Rotary switches are the most common type of selector switch. They have a rotating knob that can be turned to select between different positions. Toggle switches, on the other hand, have a lever that can be flipped up or down to toggle between different options. Push-button switches are similar to toggle switches, but they are activated by pressing a button instead of flipping a lever.
Wiring a 3 Position Selector Switch
Wiring a 3 position selector switch is relatively easy, but it requires some basic knowledge of electrical wiring. The switch has 3 positions: Off, On, and On with a third contact, also known as a “center position”. To wire the switch, you will need the following tools and materials:
- Selector switch
- Wire strippers
- Wire cutters
- Electrical tape
- Electrical wires
- Wire nuts
Step 1: Turn off the Power
Before you start wiring the switch, make sure that the power is turned off. This will help prevent electrical shock and other accidents. To turn off the power, you can either unplug the device or turn off the circuit breaker that powers the switch.
Step 2: Strip the Wires
To wire the switch, you will need to strip the ends of the wires that will be connected to the switch. Use your wire strippers to strip about 1/2 inch of insulation off the ends of the wires.
Step 3: Connect the Wires to the Switch
Once you have stripped the wires, you can now connect them to the switch. To do this, follow the wiring diagram that came with the switch. Typically, you will need to connect the power wire to one of the terminals on the switch, and the load wire to another terminal. The third terminal is usually used for a ground wire, which can be connected to a metal part of the device being powered.
Step 4: Test the Switch
After you have wired the switch, you should test it to make sure that it is working properly. Turn on the power and switch the selector switch to each position to make sure that the corresponding circuit is being activated. If everything is working as expected, you can now turn off the power and secure the wires with wire nuts and electrical tape.
FAQs
Q: What is a selector switch used for?
A: A selector switch is used in electrical circuits to select between different options. It determines which circuit is active at any given time.
Q: What are the different types of selector switches?
A: The different types of selector switches include rotary, toggle, and push-button switches.
Q: How do you wire a 3 position selector switch?
A: To wire a 3 position selector switch, you will need to strip the wires, connect them to the switch according to the wiring diagram, and test the switch to make sure that it is working properly.
Conclusion
Wiring a 3 position selector switch requires some basic knowledge of electrical wiring, but it is relatively easy to do. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to wire a selector switch in no time. Remember to always turn off the power before starting any electrical work, and to test the switch after wiring it to make sure that it is working properly.
