One of the varieties of household switches is represented by a switching device with three keys, which easily recognizes a model of increased functionality. The triple switch allows you to switch several loads in the house at once, which determines the importance of its use in domestic lighting networks.
Purpose and design
The main purpose of the triple switch is to install lighting devices with several load groups (bulbs, for example) in the switching circuits. The simplest scheme of its inclusion involves the installation of a phase line in the gap, to which three different illuminators are connected (one for each toggle mechanism with a key). In addition, this device can be used in the following situations:
- be part of a device called an “electrical extension cord tee";
- to control the inclusion of light in three adjacent rooms from one common corridor;
- if necessary, switch several loads at once when they are connected from the outlet;
- to control electrical circuits, the number of energy consumers in which exceeds the number of keys (five illuminators, for example).
In the latter case, the lamps are divided into groups, each of which is switched by a separate button.
From a structural point of view, a three-key switch is a triple toggle mechanism consisting of identical nodes. When the position of one of the buttons changes, the internal circuit of the product closes, after which the voltage supplied to the group is transferred to the corresponding load.
If you return the key to its original state, the previously formed electrical circuit opens, and the light bulb connected to it goes out. The same thing happens with all the other groups of the three-key switch.
A feature of the switching mechanism is that its input contacts are combined in one block, and the upper terminals are designed separately. This allows three independent loads to be connected to the switch.
Types of switches and their advantages
A typical triple switch is available in the following versions:
- single device with three separate keys;
- touch triple device (or more advanced wireless model);
- Combined triple switch with socket.
The last option is a model of advanced functionality combining switching and power nodes.
There are other versions of switches that differ in their appearance (design).
The advantages of these devices, regardless of their variety include:
- a wide range of combinations for switching on illuminators;
- a variety of schemes by which they are connected to the supply line;
- simplicity of installation and operation.
Touch devices allow you to control the on and off process with a light touch on the central part of the key; no effort is required to switch them.
Wireless samples are still a rarity in the home, because they are very expensive. Often, “advanced” models incorporate special modules (dimmers) that allow you to change the brightness of the illuminator or backlight connected to them.
Combined Triple Instruments
The triple switch combined with the socket is a combined version.It is suitable only for installation in certain places where it will be convenient to control the inclusion of the lamp and use the outlet. The most suitable place for this is a dressing table in the bathroom, equipped with a hairdryer or curling iron if necessary while lighting is turned on.
You can install and connect such a module in the usual place for it - on the wall.
However, in this case the provisions of the applicable standards are violated. According to the PUE, the height of the circuit breakers should correspond to the level of the human forearm. The same requirements stipulate that the outlet is supposed to be at the level of no more than one meter from the floor. The disadvantages of this arrangement also include difficulties with its inclusion in the existing wiring. To connect a combined device, you will need to refine the wiring diagram or stretch individual wires to it, which is not entirely aesthetically pleasing.
Switching schemes
It is more convenient to familiarize yourself with the wiring diagrams of electrical devices with the standard version, in which one phase conductor is connected to it and connected. Three wires are routed from each of the three response terminals to the side of the distribution block, which are connected inside the box to the corresponding lighting device (group).
In accordance with the requirements of the PUE, the phase wires must be connected to the lower contact of the circuit breaker, and the three wires leaving it must be connected to the upper terminals.
On some product models, the input terminals are marked with an arrow pointing inside the case, and the output terminals are reversed.
When controlling lighting in three rooms from the upper terminals, three wires are routed to the junction box of each room. From them, it is laid to the local lighting device (chandelier).
With any method of connecting the wires extending from the switch, it should be remembered that the zero bus is inserted into the junction box separately. From it, it is also connected to the corresponding terminal of a chandelier or other lighting device.
Distinguish phase and neutral conductors by the color of their insulation (such marking is normalized by the standard). The former have a red protective coating, while the latter is blue. However, in reality, this correct approach is sometimes violated, so the performer has to hang tags with signs on the wires.
Converting a double switch into a triple device
In order to use switching products with the greatest benefit, some users try to make a triple of a double switch. Such alteration does not require special efforts and time-consuming. You just need to replace the dual device with a new sample:
- Purchase a switch with three keys in the store.
- Remove the old double product.
- In its place, install a new triple switch.
When remodeling, an additional line will need to be laid towards the junction box. It is needed to connect to a third lighting fixture or group.
You can try to hide it in the thickness of the walls, but the strobing procedure is associated with large labor costs for making grooves for the cable. It is much cheaper and easier to lay from the outlet to the box, and from it to the chandelier pieces of plastic cable channel. After fixing it on the walls (the covers are previously removed), the pieces of wire are laid to the right places, and then connected to free terminals. Upon completion of installation, it remains to close the cable channels with covers and check the switch for operation
Three-key switches are universal devices by which it is possible to significantly expand the functionality of switching nodes.
