Over time, the principles of lighting management smoothly change towards comfort for users. If still some 40 years ago we could get only the most common light switches, which were connected by the simplest scheme, today there are hundreds of their varieties. Modern light switches are equipped with indicators, dimmers, remote controls, touch buttons , etc. With their help, the lighting can be adjusted in brightness and even in time (with a timer). Separately, we should discuss such a type of circuit-breaker as the gate. Let's find out what he is.
What does "pass-through switch" mean?
A pass-through switch is actually two, three or more switches that allow you to control one light source. For example, in the bedroom there is one ceiling lamp (chandelier) and a double pass switch (in fact it is one device connected in a single circuit). In such a situation, you have the opportunity, when you enter the room, to light the light at the entrance, and then, after settling in for the night, turn it off with another switch located near the bed . Also, often pass-through switches are installed in long corridors, on staircases, in walk-through rooms, etc. This is very convenient from a purely practical point of view, because all novelties of electrical and other equipment have only one purpose - to make the use of these devices as comfortable as possible. And they succeed!
This type of electrical engineering differs from conventional switches only in the contact circuit of the connection, a bit more complicated. To implement the idea of installing several switches in the room for a single lamp, it is necessary to make three- or four-core cables around the room during the repair of the room, before the finishing works. And for this it is required first of all to plan where the switches will be located and how many they will be.
Varieties of pass-through switches
Between themselves, the pass-through switches differ in the same parameters as conventional ones, not pass-through ones. So, they are one-, two- and three-keys. An important point in buying a pass-through switch is its ability to work as a cross-over (this applies to single- and double-key models). Be sure to find out in the store if you plan to install three or more pass-through switches.
According to the type of control, the pass-through switches are classified as follows: they are keyed, touch and remote. Those who like the possibility of a smooth adjustment of lighting, will be interested in the passing switches with a dimmer. Such models are at all eminent manufacturers, and they are not cheap. And for an amateur to experiment, it is possible to connect the dimmer to the contact circuit of the pass-through switches yourself.
The breaker can be equipped with an indicator (backlight). This is convenient if you are installing an electrician in a long dark corridor: now you do not have
Many self-taught electricians are also interested in whether it is possible to fabricate a passing switch from the usual one, and how to do it. To implement this in practice is in principle real, if you are well versed in electrical circuits. However, does this make sense in the conditions of the present, when on the shelves of shops you can find the switch you need in absolutely any stylistic decision and color scheme? The answer is obvious.
And finally, let's name the most popular manufacturers of pass-through switches: LEGRAND, Schneider, VIKO, Makel, etc.