Connection diagram for a pass-through switch for lighting control. How to connect a pass-through switch How to correctly connect a 2-key pass-through switch

In conclusion, we invite you to watch another informative and interesting video about the connection diagram and installation of pass-through switches from 2 places:

To create maximum comfort, a device for turning off or turning on lights in the house must have not only functionality, but also practicality. Compared to pass-through devices with one key, two-key switches are more convenient due to their versatility.

The pass-through design of a two-key switch model is nothing more than two single devices combined in one housing, which operate on the principle of a contact group switch. Typically such devices have 2 input and 4 output contacts. At the same time, there is an indicator on the product body that helps you figure out what position the device is in - on or off.

The main purpose of the pass-through switch

Pass-through device for controlling lighting in the house according to its principle completely replicates the usual stationary analogue and is therefore available with one, two or three independent keys. It’s hard not to agree that the usual design of a switch installed at the beginning of a flight of stairs or a long corridor and a control panel located at the other end of the room are very convenient for solving the issue of lighting a specific area of ​​the house.

The choice of a pass-through switch design is primarily based on the number of keys on the device, since this allows you to control several light sources connected to such a device at once. In turn, the possibility of a remote control system or a touch sensor are additional elements that improve the comfort of controlling light in the house.

It is better to install multi-key pass-through type switches in large rooms in which there are several inputs and different light sources that need to be turned on simultaneously. In other situations It is advisable to install pass-through devices with one key, which are more convenient to use and have the simplest connection diagram.

Types of pass-through switches

On the market of electrical equipment and related accessories, there are many models of pass-through switches and switches from foreign and domestic manufacturers, both simple single-key and multifunctional models. The most Two-key devices are considered popular, which can control several lighting fixtures at once, located in different rooms or in one lamp. Not as popular, but no less effective, are switches with three keys, although their connection diagram is much more complicated.

Thanks to the pass-through operating principle of the switch, it becomes possible to organize control of one lamp from different points of the house or apartment. But to implement it you will need several single-key devices and a cross switch. And when using several cross devices, you can achieve control of the lamp from four points in the apartment at once.

I would like to note that each additional light source control point significantly complicates the connection diagram for pass-through type switches, which may make maintenance and repair difficult lighting fixtures in the house. The tangle of wires can confuse even an experienced electrician.

Features of the connection diagram for pass-through switches from two places

With proper assembly of the double switches connection diagram, it becomes possible to control several lighting groups from two places independently of each other. In this case, both switches with two pass-through keys will operate in two directions, but for this you need to do the following work.

1. Two-button switches are installed in pre-selected places in the socket boxes.
2. Lamps or multi-lamp light sources, such as a chandelier, are mounted. A three-core cable with a phase, working zero and grounding is connected to the lighting devices.
3. Considering that each switch has 3 contacts, then you will need two three-core cables appropriate length.
4. The wires are connected in the junction box according to the diagram.

The implementation of such a scheme is possible with four single-key pass-through switches, but it's not rational in terms of consumption of additional cables and distribution boxes.

If necessary, a double pass-through switch can be used as a crossover analogue with one key. To do this, the corresponding contacts are bridged, and the keys are connected to each other for simultaneous operation.

Two-key pass-through type switches, like analogues with one key, can work as cross devices. The principle of switching contact groups has a similar circuit with lamp control from two places. That is, as in the previous case, you need to connect two double devices and a crossover analogue in accordance with certain steps.

1. The first step is to install switches in socket boxes mounted in the wall. This diagram involves connecting 12 wires in a junction box.
2. The next step involves installing two separate light sources and laying a cable to them with the zero engaged.
3. The cable is cut to the required length, using a three-core wire. 6 wires are supplied to the limit switches, and the two-key pass-through crossover switch has 8 contacts.
4. The phase is supplied to the first switch with two pass-through keys, and then follows the diagram to the remaining devices.
5. The second pass-through type limit switch will be connected directly from the lighting fixture.
6. When laying circuits of increased complexity, it is very important to correctly mark all cables and individual cores. In order not to be mistaken in the intricacy of wires, you need perform step-by-step marking starting with the first wire and continuing from contact to contact. Even cables that seem easy to connect at first glance need to be labeled.
7. As has become known from practice, installation of such a circuit requires the use of an enlarged box or its paired analogue. This is primarily due to the fact that in a standard junction box there is simply not enough space for a high-quality connection of wires, or due to the large number of connecting blocks it will not be possible to close the lid.

Also, any two-key pass-through type switches can be used as regular analogues. For this purpose, one contact group is either not used at all, or another separate lighting device is connected through it. Having familiarized yourself with the above methods of controlling lamps from different places, you can figure out what a connection diagram is or, as electricians say, a circuit diagram for a pass-through switch.

How to connect a pass-through switch to two groups of lamps

Before moving on to installation work, you need to understand the design features of a two-key pass-through switch. As mentioned earlier, structurally these are two devices with one key assembled in one housing. Having dealt with this feature, everyone will be able to understand the principle of its operation and connection methods, which are carried out by analogy with a conventional switch with one key, with the exception of a couple of nuances:

• The first part of the switch, or more precisely, both identical halves of it, is supplied with electrical energy via one wire. On the second device from which the light source will be connected, each of the output phases will power its own lamp.
• In the case of a single pass-through device design, a three-core cable is laid to each device. If it is a two-key analogue, then stretch five conductors to the first and one more to the second device. The difference in the number of conductors is due to the common phase wire.

Based on the above discussed options for connecting pass-through switches with different numbers of keys and the possibility of using their combinations, you can lay out a variety of circuits that allow you to control lighting fixtures from different places in the house. Although, based on practice, in everyday life there is rarely a need to control lamps from more than three different points in the apartment.

Proper control of lighting fixtures will help and simplify their operation. If you install the pass-through switch without errors, the 2-point connection diagram will perform its functions flawlessly. This article discusses the issues of choosing suitable products and installation work. Having studied this information, you can independently implement the project at a convenient time and at reasonable costs.

After training, it will not be difficult to create a convenient lighting control scheme

If there is a flight of stairs at home, then its lighting can be conveniently controlled from two places. Automatic turning off of the light when leaving a certain area can be organized using timers or sensors that record movement. But such electronic devices are expensive. They are more complex and less durable. They can be damaged by vibrations and high levels of humidity.

The circuit of a pass-through switch from two places is simpler and cheaper. Any thrifty owner will appreciate the following features:

• High reliability and low cost of a standard product.
• Easy to install and no complicated settings.
• Immediate power shutdown if necessary and optimal energy consumption.
• Possibility to carry out repair work yourself and no costs for the services of experienced specialists.

Such solutions are useful in large houses and small apartments. Light control devices are placed in the hallway, near the entrance and bed in the bedroom, and in different places in the living room. You should start by accurately identifying user needs and drawing up a corresponding list of tasks.

How a pass-through switch functions: 2-point connection diagram

A conventional switch breaks and connects the electrical circuit of the phase wire, which is designated by the Latin letter “L” or “F”. This action supplies power to the connected device. The second conductor (neutral, “N”) is necessary to create a closed circuit through which current flows. The third wire (special designation “Ground”) connects the instrument housing to. This connection prevents electric shock due to short circuits and ensures timely operation of circuit breakers.

The operating principle of transition-type devices can be studied in the following picture.

In the indicated position the contacts are closed. Current flows through the circuit and it lights up. If a person moves to another switch and presses a key, the key will move to the "3" position. The circuit will be broken and the lamp will go out. Now it is enough to turn on the key on either side to reapply voltage.

Preparation for project implementation

You will need a cable for installation. Its parameters are selected taking into account maximum power. With a copper core cross section of 1.5 mm and a 220V supply network, it is permissible to connect lamps with a total consumption of up to 4 kW. Smaller sizes are not recommended in order to maintain high mechanical strength and ensure a good load margin.

To ensure that connecting a pass-through switch according to the diagram from two places does not cause unnecessary difficulties, you should purchase wires with different color markings:

• Grounding is a combination of green and yellow. It is connected to a special bus, which is installed in the central distribution panel of a private house or apartment.
• A blue sheath is used when choosing a “zero” wire.
• There are no special requirements for the color of the phase wire. But it is better if it does not change in different sections of the wiring.

Wires combined in a single cable with double insulation are suitable. As a rule, solid cores are used. In modern products of this type, the outer layers are created from polymers with special additives. The following abbreviations confirm the special properties of the shells:

• NG – non-flammable;
• FR – increased resistance to open flame;
• LS – low smoke emission during combustion.

This table shows the characteristics of pass-through switches for a 2-point connection diagram:

Image	Trademark, series	Peculiarities	price, rub.
	IEC QUARTA	Beige color, set with frame, body and frame made of ABS plastic.	90-95
	ABB Decento	Champagne, with frame.	864
	Legrand Etika	White, frameless, with reinforced construction and cable fixation with screw connection.	120-130
	Legrand Etika	Similar to the previous version, but in ivory finish.	130-140
	ABB Cosmo	Built-in lighting.	150-160
	Schneider Electric GLOSSA	Aluminum color	155-165
	Legrand Quteo	For outdoor installation. Waterproof device in accordance with IP44 class requirements.	220-240

Important! From the reference data it is clear that the cost depends on the brand, aesthetic and functional parameters. All products shown are rated for 10 A current.

To perform work operations you will need:

• Phillips and flat head screwdrivers.
• Knife and side cutters.
• Construction level, tape measure.
• Screwdriver probe with built-in phase indicator.

Tools and consumables for laying channels are selected depending on the characteristics of the structure. The most difficult thing to work with is wooden houses. To prevent emergency situations, the following techniques are used:

• installation of cables in steel or copper pipes;
• open installation.

Hiding conductors in corrugated polymer and metal tubes is prohibited. Such engineering systems must comply with the standards of PUE and PTEEP. Special channels are created in non-combustible brick and concrete structures. Depending on the material, the appropriate tool and attachments are selected.

Related article:

A competent choice of electrical equipment guarantees safety, reliability and aesthetics of use. Let's take a look at the existing brands and models.

Step-by-step installation of a pass-through switch connection diagram from 2 places

The following instructions will help you perform all operations correctly:

• Remove wallpaper, cladding panels and other decorative coatings. Marking of future lines is applied.

• The grooves are laid starting from the shield. A free distance of at least 50% of the cable diameter is left to the walls of the upper edge of the channel.

• Horizontal lines should be at the same level.

• Cable laying is done carefully. Necessary fixation with nails of suitable sizes prior to plaster without damaging the protective shells is acceptable.
• Switches and distribution boxes are installed. The conductors will be connected to the appropriate terminals.
• The assembled products are inserted into plastic mounting boxes. Using built-in mechanisms, pointed elements extend to ensure secure fastening.

• The functioning of the system is checked. If there are no comments, the channels are closed with cement mortar. The frames are installed after the walls have been restored.

Solving other problems

Below are examples of how to connect a pass-through switch using other connection diagrams. Having understood the principles of operation, it will not be difficult to modify the project yourself, taking into account your personal requirements.

Control of two lamps

If necessary, you can organize independent control of two lamps. The corresponding connection of the lamps is shown here. Please note that you will need to purchase two-key switches.

Controlling two lamps

Turning lights on and off from multiple locations

The following pictures indicate how the devices are connected if the standard connection diagram for a two-key pass-through switch is not suitable.

In order to properly use the pass-through switch, a 2-point connection diagram is created based on the needs of future users. The plan includes consumables, construction and finishing materials, tools and fixtures. The exact choice of channel laying technology is important. The electrical parameters of certified switches are identical. But the appearance and additional capabilities of these devices have a significant impact on the cost.

How to connect a pass-through switch (video)

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Sockets and switches: the best brands from selection to installation

First of all, before choosing and purchasing, you need to decide what it is - a pass-through switch, what it is needed for, and how it differs from the usual one, two and three-key switches.

A single-key pass-through switch is necessary to control one circuit or lighting line from several points located in different parts of the room or the entire house. That is, with one switch you turn on the lighting when entering a room or corridor, and with another, but at a different point, you turn off the same lighting.

Very often this is used in bedrooms. I went into the bedroom and turned on the light near the door. I lay down on the bed and turned off the light at the headboard or near the bedside table.
In two-story mansions, he turned on the light bulb on the first floor, climbed the stairs to the second and turned it off there.

Selection, design and differences of pass-through switches

Before assembling such a control scheme, here is what you should pay special attention to:

The main difference between regular and pass-through ones is the number of contacts. Simple single-key ones have two terminals for connecting wires (input and output), while pass-through ones have three!

In simple terms, the lighting circuit can be either closed or open, there is no third option.

It is more correct to call a pass-through not a switch, but a switch.

Since it switches the circuit from one working contact to another.

In appearance, from the front they can be absolutely identical. Only the pass key can have an icon of vertical triangles. However, do not confuse them with reversible or crossover ones (more about them below). These triangles point in a horizontal direction.

But from the reverse side you can immediately see the difference:

• the pass-through has 1 terminal on top and 2 on the bottom

• a regular one has 1 on top and 1 on the bottom

Due to this parameter, many people confuse them with two-key ones. However, two-key ones are also not suitable here, although they also have three terminals.

The significant difference is in the operation of the contacts. When one contact is closed, pass-through switches automatically close the other, but two-key switches do not have such a function.

Moreover, there is no intermediate position when both circuits are open at the gateway.

Connecting a pass-through switch

First of all, you need to correctly connect the switch itself in the socket box. Remove the key and the overhead frames.

When disassembled, you can easily see the three contact terminals.

The most important thing is to find the common one. On high-quality products, a diagram should be drawn on the reverse side. If you understand them, you can easily navigate through it.

If you have a budget model, or any electrical circuits are a bit of a mystery to you, then an ordinary Chinese tester in circuit continuity mode, or an indicator screwdriver with a battery, will come to the rescue.

Using the tester's probes, alternately touch all the contacts and look for the one on which the tester will “squeak” or show “0” at any position of the ON or OFF key. It's even easier to do this with an indicator screwdriver.

After you have found the common terminal, you need to connect the phase from the power cable to it. Connect the remaining two wires to the remaining terminals.

Moreover, which one goes where does not make a significant difference. The switch is assembled and secured in the socket box.

Do the same operation with the second switch:

• look for the common terminal

• connect the phase conductor to it, which will go to the light bulb

• connect two other wires to the remaining ones

Connection diagram for the pass-through switch wires in the distribution box

Scheme without grounding conductor

Now the most important thing is to correctly assemble the circuit in the junction box. Four 3-core cables should go into it:

• power cable from lighting circuit breaker

• cable to switch No. 1

• cable to switch No. 2

• cable for lamp or chandelier

When connecting wires, it is most convenient to orient them by color. If you use a three-core VVG cable, then it has two most common color markings:

• white (gray) - phase

• blue - zero

• yellow green - earth

or second option:

• White gray)

• brown

• black

To choose a more correct phasing in the second case, follow the tips from the article ""

Connect the neutral conductor from the cable of the input machine and the neutral going to the lamp at one point using the terminals of the car.

Similar to the neutral wires, you combine the “ground” from the input cable with the “ground” of the outgoing cable for lighting.

This wire is connected to the lamp body.

The phase from the input cable must be connected to the phase of the outgoing wire to the common terminal of the pass-through switch No. 1.

And connect the common wire from pass-through switch No. 2 with a separate wago clamp to the phase conductor of the lighting cable.

Having completed all these connections, all that remains is to connect the secondary (outgoing) conductors from switch No. 1 and No. 2 to each other. And it doesn’t matter at all how you connect them.

You can even mix up the colors. But it’s better to stick to the colors so as not to get confused in the future.

The basic connection rules in this diagram that you need to remember:

• the phase from the machine must go to the common conductor of the first switch

• and the same phase should go from the common conductor of the second switch to the light bulb

• the remaining two auxiliary conductors are connected to each other in the junction box

• zero and ground are supplied directly to the light bulbs without switches

Changeover switches - lighting control circuit from 3 places

But what if you want to control one lighting from three or more points. That is, there will be 3, 4, etc. switches in the circuit. It would seem that you need to take another pass-through switch and that’s it.

However, a switch with three terminals will no longer work here. Since there will be four connected wires in the junction box.

Here a changeover switch, or as it is also called a cross, cross, or intermediate switch, will come to your aid. Its key difference is that it has four outlets - two at the bottom and two at the top.

And it is installed precisely in the gap between two passageways. Find in the junction box two secondary (not main) wires from the first and second pass-through switch.

You disconnect them and connect a changeover between them. Connect the wires that come from the first to the input (follow the arrows), and those that go to the second to the output terminals.

Always check the diagram on the switches! It often happens that their entrance and exit are on the same side (top and bottom). For example, the connection diagram for a Legrand Valena changeover switch:

Naturally, there is no need to stuff the changeover itself into the junction box. It is enough to lead the ends of a 4-core cable from it there. Meanwhile, you place the switch itself in any convenient place - near the bed, in the middle of a long corridor, etc. You can turn the light on and off from anywhere.

The most important advantage of this circuit is that it can be changed indefinitely and add as many changeover switches as you like. That is, there will always be two passing ones (at the beginning and the end), and in the interval between them there will be 4, 5 or at least 10 crossover ones.

Connection errors

Many people make a mistake at the stage of searching and connecting the common terminal in the pass-through switch. Without checking the circuit, they naively believe that the common terminal is the one with only one contact.

They assemble a circuit in this way, and then for some reason the switches do not work correctly (they depend on each other).

Remember that on different switches the common contact can be anywhere!

And it is best to call it, what is called “live”, with a tester or an indicator screwdriver.

Most often, this problem is encountered when installing or replacing pass-through switches from different companies. If everything worked before, but after replacing one circuit the circuit stopped working, it means the wires were mixed up.

But there may also be an option that the new switch is not pass-through at all. Also remember that the lighting inside the product cannot in any way affect the switching principle itself.

Another common mistake is incorrectly connecting crossovers. When both wires are placed from pass-through No. 1 to the upper contacts, and from No. 2 to the lower ones. Meanwhile, the cross switch has a completely different circuit and switching mechanism. And you need to connect the wires crosswise.

Flaws

If your light bulb burns out and needs to be replaced, with such a scheme it is not immediately possible to understand whether the light is on or off.

It will be unpleasant when, when replacing, the lamp may simply explode in front of your eyes. In this case, the easiest and most reliable way is to turn off the automatic lighting in the panel.

And the more light points you have, the greater the number of them will be in the distribution boxes. Connecting the cable directly according to diagrams without junction boxes reduces the number of connections, but can significantly increase either the cable consumption or the number of its cores.

If your wiring goes under the ceiling, you will have to lower the wire from there to each switch, and then lift it back up. The best option here is to use pulse relays.