váltókapcsoló

A váltókapcsoló, commonly known as a two-way switch or three-way switch in some regions, is an electrical switch used to control a single light fixture or a group of fixtures from two different locations. This is distinct from a simple single-pole switch, which only allows control from one point.

The fundamental principle behind a váltókapcsoló system is that it redirects the electrical current through one of two possible paths. The switch itself has three terminals: one common terminal and two traveler terminals. When a váltókapcsoló is in one position, it connects the common terminal to one of the traveler terminals. When it is flipped to the other position, it connects the common terminal to the *other* traveler terminal.

In a typical installation, two váltókapcsolók are wired in series. The "hot" wire from the power source connects to the common terminal of the first switch. The two traveler terminals of the first switch are then connected to the two traveler terminals of the second switch via "traveler wires." Finally, the common terminal of the second switch connects to the light fixture.

This arrangement allows either switch to independently complete or break the circuit to the light. If the light is on, flipping either switch will change its state to off, and vice versa. This is highly practical for applications like staircases, long hallways, or rooms with multiple entrances, enabling users to turn lights on or off from either end.