Despite the simple device of the circuit breaker, the range offered by manufacturers is constantly expanding. Additional functions are created and implemented that bring the comfort of using devices to a new level. To understand and choose the most suitable option, you should familiarize yourself with the main types of switches, advantages, features and differences.
The main purpose of the switch
A light switch is a conductor switching device that connects and disconnects an electrical wiring circuit. Standard models are connected to a circuit with certain parameters. The characteristics of the mechanisms and wiring must be consistent, otherwise short circuits and other problems will arise.
The switches are designed for the specific limits of the voltage load and the conducted current. You can clarify the parameters of the device in the technical instructions or see on the case. The main task of the switch is to supply power to the lamp and stop supplying if there is no need for a lighting device. Modern types of switches significantly differ from each other in many ways.
Switching Methods
The switch connects the wires and closes the electrical circuit. There are two main methods of switching (closing and opening the circuit), each of which has its own characteristics. The final choice depends on the capabilities, skills and preferences of the installer. In particular, the price of the device is very different.
Screw clamp mechanism
An electrical switch with fixing wires of this type is considered the most reliable. The clamps are secured with small screws that tighten completely. Installation requires skill and time, but the connection quality is more robust.
Electricians recommend checking the contacts once every six months and tightening them in order to avoid unexpected disconnection of the power circuit. The most optimal screw clamps are considered to work with an aluminum cable.
Spring contact mechanisms
Household electrical switches with spring terminals are the simplest according to the principle of operation, assembly and connection of cable ends. Instead of screws, small plates (microcontacts) are installed inside the device, which press the wire and ensure reliable connection to the electrical circuit.
The main drawback is that the end of the wire should be clamped on the right side. Otherwise, the device will not be able to fully work. It is best to purchase mechanisms with copper contacts - the connection is more durable, the material is reliable, springy.
Switch Installation Method
Types of switches according to installation methods differ open (laid on) and internal (built-in). The choice depends, first of all, on the type of wiring, the corresponding devices are selected. At the same time, it is not prohibited to install an internal switch with external wiring.
Laid on devices significantly protrude above the surface, but do not require an additional hole inside the wall (like a socket box). Such devices do not always look aesthetically pleasing, but some designer models are specially chosen to complement the interior and exterior decoration of the room.
For embedded switches, an additional cavity of size is required, which must be prepared in advance. Such switches must be considered when constructing the initial wiring plan. Devices practically do not stand out, which makes them more aesthetic and convenient.
Degree of protection of the case
The housing should be selected in accordance with the operating conditions of the light switches and switches. Cases are produced with different degrees of protection. For example, for installation on the street and in a dry room, the indicator will differ significantly. A special GOST has been developed, in accordance with which the characteristics of the production of external panels are determined.
The degree of protection of the circuit breaker can be determined by marking. The case is marked with Latin letters IP and numbers. The value indicates the instrument's resistance to moisture, dust and dirt. Also, a corresponding mark is in the technical documents for the device.
The lowest level is indicated by IP00, the highest rate is IP68. The first figure indicates the degree of protection against dust, the second - from moisture. Devices of the first value do not have protection against external conditions. The latter can work in high humidity, for example, in baths and bathrooms, as well as outdoors.
Sometimes after numbers follow additional letters. Symbolism indicates other characteristics that are not of particular importance for domestic use. Given the designation, choose the appropriate device. For example, in the bedroom or living room of the apartment, you can install switches with IP20 indicators, and for the bathroom it is better to choose IP44.
Differences of circuit breakers in control methods
Modern devices are equipped with several control options. However, the method does not affect how the switch is arranged. The appearance and method of use are different. The choice is based on the preferences of users, appearance.
Keyboard instruments
The most common and familiar option. Inside the switch, the contacts are fixed permanently, switching is carried out by a swinging mechanism on a spring, which works on compression and tension (on, off). The number of keys differs as needed. The single-key switch device is considered the classic and the simplest.
Some models use a ball that swings along a fixed beam. The part passes along the axis and rolls, shifting the mechanism to the contacts on the opposite side. In others, a spring-loaded frame is equipped, which, swaying, creates and breaks the electrical circuit.
The advantage of the latter is a long service life. If you choose the right device for the wiring characteristics and conditions of use, the switch will work for several decades. The cost of keyboard mechanisms is low, which often attracts buyers.
Push-button devices
Microcontacts are connected to the spring - upon initial pressing the circuit closes, upon repeated disconnection. Most often found in small devices (for example, table lamps of the classic "Soviet" type). The price is not much higher than the keyboard, but is compensated by the unusual appearance and method of switching.
Rope devices
By the principle of operation, such devices are similar to push-button switches. An additional detail is a lever, on the one hand fixed to the button of the switch, on the other equipped with a rope, cotton lace or chain.
The main advantages of a rope switch are easier to find in the dark, even accessible for a child. Otherwise, such devices attract only non-standard appearance.
Rotary devices
This type of switch in the switching scheme is similar to keyboard devices. Inside the contacts can only be in two positions, but a rotary lever is used as a switch. Such devices are rarely used, mainly in retro design. They can only be single, unlike two- and three-key switches.
Touch devices
The device of the touch switch involves the use of two different schemes of action. The first models worked due to the small electric capacity of the human body (capacitor principle of operation). Upon contact, the current capacity of the device changed, which served as a signal for switching the position of the mechanism.
An additional plus of such switches is the ability to continuously adjust the degree of lighting. A quick press turns on / off. When holding your finger on the surface - decrease or increase the level of light.
Recent models look like small displays. Adjustment is carried out due to built-in microcircuits. Additional functions may be included - timer, backlight, others.
Acoustic
Switches with an acoustic control method have certain advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, ease of use from anywhere in the room, on the other hand, the device can work at an unforeseen moment (the sound of cork from champagne, clapping a child for a well-told verse, others). Editors recommend installing them in tandem with the classic options.
Instrument Functionality
The differences in the functionality of the devices must be taken into account if you need to install a switch with additional functions. To choose the best option, you should consider the main varieties:
- walk-through - according to the principle of operation, these are not switches, but on-off switches that close or open the necessary branch of the electric circuit; work on the basis of three microcontacts, sometimes they work with a delay;
- cross / reverse - designed to control one light source from three or more points; for example, you can turn on the light in the corridor on the first floor, and turn off the last, often used in bedrooms - one near the door, the other near the bed;
- light regulators (dimmers) - allow you to smoothly change the illumination in the room;
- remote - complemented by special remotes, one of the developments of the "smart home" system.
Modern switches and switches can include several different functions at the same time. The most common include:
- backlight - allows you to quickly find the device in the dark, can serve as a kind of guide when moving around the room;
- controllers - are used if the lighting device is located in one room, and the switch in another, on the case, at the same time as a bulb, the small diode turns on and off;
- timer - automatic circuit interruption after a specified period of time, after which the light goes out;
- motion sensor - responds to movements in the room, allows you to save electricity - will not “forget” to turn off if there is nobody in the room;
- presence detector - a relatively new development, monitors with the help of infrared radiation, which "checks" the presence of a person in the room - the light will not turn off, even if you stay in one position for a long time.
Depending on the floor plan, user preferences, the best option is selected. Manufacturers are constantly amending, creating new interesting models.
Popular manufacturers
Many parameters depend on the manufacturer of switches, as well as other products: workmanship, service life, appearance, condition of elements, and other characteristics. Companies that have been working for a long time and constantly maintain a level of customer interest are more responsible for the manufacture of products.
The French company Legrand is one of the five largest manufacturers of electrics in Europe. The direction of work is development and improvement. In some countries it is sold under other names - Contactor, BTicino, Sarlam, others. The list of models is diverse, with each product undergoing several stages of verification, which guarantees quality and reliability. A distinctive feature of each brand product is a body made of self-extinguishing plastic (important for high-voltage networks).
The Swedish company ABB is one of the world leaders in the production of electrical components in the world. The predominant direction is modular products from which you can assemble sets in any order. Cases are made of impact-resistant, UV-resistant materials.
Among Russian manufacturers, a separate place is occupied by the Kuntsevo-Electro factory. The company has been operating for over 30 years. Product design concise. The switches and sockets of the brand have a long service life, low cost.
Classic one-, two-key switches - only one of the options for the device. Modern switches combine several functions, differ in non-standard solutions, design. Users prefer new developments that can increase the comfort of use, solve some issues. To choose the right option, take into account the parameters of the network, premises, then personal preferences.
