Aim:

To study the working of staircase wiring using two-way switches and a lamp.

Apparatus Required:

• Bulb (Lamp)

• Lamp Holder

• Two-Way Switches (2 Nos.)

• Connecting Wires

• Junction Box

• Power Supply (AC 230V)

• Screwdriver, Wire Stripper

• Fuse

Procedure:

1. Turn Off Power Supply – Ensure the power source is switched off before making any connections.

2. Fix the Lamp Holder – Mount the lamp holder on the wiring board.

3. Mount the Two-Way Switches – Install the two-way switches at two different locations, such as at the top and bottom of a staircase.

4. Connect the Lamp to the Circuit:

   • Connect one terminal of the lamp holder to the neutral of the power supply.

   • Connect the other terminal of the lamp holder to the common terminal of the second two-way switch.

5. Connect the Two-Way Switches:

   • Connect the common terminal of the first switch to the live wire of the power supply.

   • Connect the two L1 and L2 terminals of the first switch to the corresponding L1 and L2 terminals of the second switch using two separate wires.

6. Insert Fuse in Series – Use a fuse in series with the live wire to protect the circuit. (If required - optional)

7. Switch ON the Circuit – Turn on the power supply and operate the switches from different locations.

8. Record Observations:

   • Observe the behavior of the lamp when the switches are operated.

   • Verify that the lamp turns ON and OFF when either of the switches is toggled.

9. Switch OFF the Circuit – Ensure safety by switching off the power before making modifications.

Observations:

• The lamp can be controlled from two different locations using two-way switches.

• The circuit operates in such a way that toggling any switch changes the state of the lamp.

• The wiring method is commonly used for staircase and long hallway lighting.

Precautions:

1. Ensure all connections are tight and secure to prevent loose contacts and sparking.

2. Use properly insulated wires to avoid short circuits and electric shocks.

3. Always switch off the power supply before making any wiring changes.

4. Use a fuse of appropriate rating to protect the circuit from overcurrent.

5. Avoid touching live wires while the circuit is powered on.

6. Verify voltage readings carefully using a properly calibrated voltmeter.

7. Ensure the bulb is properly rated for the supply voltage to prevent damage.

8. Follow all safety protocols and use necessary protective equipment while working with electrical circuits.

Result:

The experiment demonstrates that staircase wiring using two-way switches allows control of a single lamp from two different locations. This type of wiring is commonly used in staircases, corridors, and large rooms for convenient lighting control.

Circuit Diagram: