Understanding 4-Way Switch Wiring
Uploaded by
Christian BehilUnderstanding 4-Way Switch Wiring
Uploaded by
Christian Behil4 Way Switch
A 4-way switch
Four-way switch is actually double-pole single-
throwswitch, which mean they have four terminals:
four traveler wire. It is used to control a lamp from
three different locations. It is used in stairs, hallways,
or in a large room with more than one entrance.
These switches do not have an “ON” and “OFF”
position like single switches. It is important to
understand how these are wired before attempting to
install, replace, or troubleshoot.
4-way switches
have four terminals
on them: two for
traveller wires
coming in, and two
for traveller wires
going out. The
device will usually
indicate which two
terminals are for
“incoming” and
“outgoing” wires.
If the wire terminals were
numbered 1,2,3 and 4 as in the
diagram below, when the
external handle is in the “up”
position, we will have continuity
between terminals 1 and 3 and
between terminals 2 and 4.
• If the external
handle is moved
to the “down”
position, we will
now have
continuity
between
terminals 1 and 4
and between
terminals 2 and 3.
•4-way switches also do not
have a marked “on” or “off”
position, and so cannot be
installed “upside-down”.
• Rocker: A rocker light switch has a flat, smooth
face that turns on and off by pressing (or
rocking) it on the top or the bottom. A rocker
light switch can be lighted, for easier viewing
and access.
• Toggle switch: A toggle switch has a lever that
flips up or down to turn the light on or off. It's a
classic, simple light switch that rarely fails.
• Push button: A push-button switch turns on or
off when the button is pushed in or out. A
popular variation of a push button switch is the
rotary-style dimmer dial. This switch turns on
and off by pushing the button, but it can also be
rotated to increase or decrease the brightness
of the lights.
