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A two-way switch is a switch that is used in a circuit to allow a current to flow into one of two different further parts of the circuit. Thus the current cannot flow into both parts at the same time.
Another answer
A two way switch consist of two switches at 2 different locations controlling the same electrical point, usually a single light or a series of lights.
This type of connection is usually employed for passages, staircases and corridor lights so that they can pe put ON when entering and put OFF when leaving.
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CoachThe term 'two-way switch' is used in Britain to describe one of a pair of such switches required to operate a lamp from two different locations, such as from the top and bottom of a stairway. In North America, this type of switch, for some odd reason, is known as a 'three-way' switch.
What is referred to as a "two way switch" is typically used to switch a light from two locations, such as opposite ends of a hall.
In such a situation, a "two way switch" is put in a switch box at either end of the hall, and a 3 conductor wire (+ground) is run between the switches.
The switches technically do not "shut off", but instead, select between two contacts. The "common" lug of the switch connects to the "common" contact inside. When the switch is operated it connects with one of the contacts and simultaneously disconnects from the other.
The link below shows a diagram of how the wires are connected.
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It might be worth pointing out that, in North America, these are called 'three-way switches' -but I could never figure out why! I'm told it's because it's got three terminals, but what the number of terminals has to do with the number of 'ways' is a mystery!
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What are the disadvantages of a two way switch?
What is Disadvantages of two way switch
Which logic gate is similar to two way switch?
A two-way switch is similar to an XOR gate in logic circuits. XOR gates output a high signal when the two input signals are different, similar to how a two-way switch changes state depending on its position.
How many terminals does a two way lighting switch have?
A two-way lighting switch typically has 4 terminals: two terminals for the switched circuit and two terminals for the incoming power supply.
How many terminals does a two way switch have?
3
A three way switch is what type of switch?
A three way switch is one of two devices that is used in operating a load from two different positions. This type of electrical circuit is known as three way switching. This terminology is used in North America, in Europe and the UK this type of switching is known as two way switching.
