Demystifying the Double Pole Double Throw Switch Wiring Diagram
A Double Pole Double Throw switch is essentially two single pole single throw (SPST) switches combined into a single unit, controlled by one actuator. The "double pole" refers to the fact that it can control two independent circuits at the same time. The "double throw" indicates that each of these poles has two possible connection points or "throws" for the circuit to be connected to. When you flip the switch, both poles switch their connections simultaneously. The ability to control two circuits independently with a single action is what makes the DPDT switch so versatile. Let's break down its components and functionality. A DPDT switch typically has six terminals: two for the input power (or common) for each pole, and two output terminals for each pole. When the switch is in one position, the input on each pole is connected to one output. When you flip the switch, the input on each pole is disconnected from its current output and connected to the other output. This allows for a complete changeover of connections for both circuits. Here's a simplified look at how it works:- Pole 1: Controls Circuit A
- Pole 2: Controls Circuit B
- Throw 1: Connects Input 1 to Output 1A and Input 2 to Output 2A
- Throw 2: Connects Input 1 to Output 1B and Input 2 to Output 2B