Switches & Sockets

In an electrical system, a switch can both interrupt as well as direct the flow of current in another direction. We can say, all electrical appliances work through switches, which is used to turn on and off a device and with so many types of electrical switches available in the market, it becomes necessary to know what makes a particular switch different from the other. In other words, we can say every switch has a distinctive feature and by understanding its features we can make a better choice considering our requirements. Besides the basic turn on and off feature, many switches have integrated feature, like indicators, etc. 

Types of switches depending on the Specifications :

1. One-way (single pole) electrical switch : 

A one-way or single-pole electrical switch is the most common one in use. They are used to control lights, fans, or other devices from a single location. It has a simple ON and OFF marking. A one-way switch basically operates as a make or break switch. When it is turned ON, the two terminals are connected, and when it is turned OFF, the contact between the two is broken.

2. Two-way (double pole) electrical switch : 

A two-way or double-pole electrical switch is generally used in industrial applications but can also be found in some home wiring systems. Like the single-pole switch, a two-way or a double-pole electrical switch may also have the ON and OFF markings on them. These switches control a device or equipment from more than one location. The Double-Pole or the Two-way switches are generally used for 30 amps, so they are able to control higher-demand appliances, like motors, and machinery.

Types of switches depending on Usage :

1. Do not disturb switch : 

Entirely different from the regular switches available in the market, this soft touch operating switch is generally used in places like hospitals and hotels. Do Not Disturb Switch is generally used to ensure privacy and silence.

2. Light dimmer/ stepless regulator : 

A light dimmer/stepless regulator is used to control or change the speed of a fan or sometimes to change the intensity of a light between bright and dim. The regulators available earlier used to rotate in steps, each step representing a definite level of fan speed, but the Light Dimmer/Stepless Regulator allows you to rotate it freely without any steps or levels.

3. Bell push switch

A Bell Push switch is connected to a doorbell. So, when the switch is pushed, it rings the bell connected to it. It can be used at homes, offices or at any other place wherever required. A Bell Push switch always maintains a broken circuit, unless the button is pressed.

Sockets allow communication between two different processes on the same or different machines. An electrical socket is a device that allows electrical equipment to be connected to the primary power supply. The sockets may differ in voltage and current rating, shape, size and type of connectors. Generally, these are available in 2-pin, 3-pin and 5-pin settings, with 6A-25A current rating.