The basic use of a four-way switch is to use a combination of 2 three-way switches for controlling light at three or more different points. The basic feature is that light can be regulated at different points and offers to start and to end our switch through 3-way switches and with the use of four-way switches. The four-way switch comes with four terminals; two are used for incoming traveler wires, and two are used for going out that are also travelers. So let’s get started with an introduction to the 4-way switch.
Introduction to 4-Way Switch
The main use of a four-way switch is to control lights at 3 or more points. A circuit connects four-way switches with a combination of three-way switches.
The four-way switch is a double-pole, double-throw switch and is internally wired for reversing the connection between input and output and comes with 4 external points.
This switch comes with two traveler pairs that are connected in a crossed-over. The middle switch connected with the addition of external wiring for the DPDT switch and DPDT relay was also used.
The connection of one or more four-way switches in line and 3-way switches at other points can be regulated at 3 or more points. If we toggle the switch, it changes the condition of the load from off to on state or on to off state.
4-Way Switch Working
The four-way switch is connected with 2 three-way switches and can be on or off circuit. The four-way switch comes with 4 terminals that have two sets for toggle conditions. If the switch is in the up state, current will flow between terminals. In down state, current flows in the other two terminals.
Considered that the 3-way switch connected traveler wires from the switch to one side of the four-way switch. The other is connected with another 3-way switch. Then the 3-way switch is attached to the light source. If all connections are made properly, then flipping any switch can turn on the light.
Types of 4-Way SwitchesÂ
Rocker:
- The rocker light switch comes with a flat surface that is on and off clicking at the upper or lower part. The rocker light switch can glow for easy access and view.
Toggle switch:
- The toggle switch comes with a lever that flips up or down for turning on or off the light. It is commonly used since it has a simple design that does not fail.
Push button:
- This type of switch turns on or off when the button is pressed in or out. The common type of push button switch is the rotary-style dimmer dial. This switch is on or off by clicking a button and also rotated to increase or reduce light brightness.
How to Wire a 4-Way Switch?
- For wiring the four-way switch, first of all, 2 three-way switches are required at any end of the circuit. The four-way switch is then connected between these 2 three-way switches.
- The four-way switch wiring uses the connection of traveler wires of three-way switches with four-way switches. Travelers wires are used for current-carrying purposes.
- The wiring of four-way switches between three-way switches helps to control lights.
Follow these steps for wiring a four-way switch.
- First of all, turn off the power supply through the main breaker and supply.
- Make the connection of travelers’ wires from the output points of the four-way switches with the second three-way switch.
- Check that all connections are properly connected and connect properly before turning on the power supply.
Connection of 4-Way Switch
- The connection of the four-way switch needs proper care for travelers’ wires.
- Check traveler’s wires coming from three-way switches.
- Make connections of travelers’ wires with related terminals of four-way switches. Certain terminals on four-way with into affect the working of the switch until travelers are accurately connected.
3-Way vs. 4-Way Switch
- The basic difference between a three-way and a four-way switch is the number of control points. The 3-way switch helps to control light from two different points and best any end of a staircase or entrance in a room.
- The four-way switch provides an extra control point and is used in combination with 2 three-way switches and has features for controlling at more points.
Difference between 2-way switches and 4-way switches
- The four-way switch is used for controlling single devices at 3 or more locations, and the two-way switch works for controlling single devices at two different points.
Is a double pole the same as a 4-way switch?
- The double pole is like a four-way switch, and they are interchangeable.
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