can anyone please tell me how to wire a 2 way switch as a simple break between a spotlight and a 3 pin plug.

If I could find a picture of the internal workings of a 2 way switch I could probably fathom it out, but I can't find a simple picture of it anywhere. I know it's not the usual switch to use for this, but it's what I have at the moment and I'm sure it will do the job.

many thanks

gareth, February 2009

If in UK this will work for you....

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1386/1395634153_8f4b97570c.jpg

Alternatively you could buy a light with a switch built in.

Peccavi, February 2009

THANKS FOR THE REPLY.
I THOUGHT ABOUT THE INLINE SWITCH, BUT I WANT SOMETHING FIXED TO THE SIDE OF MY WORK STATION.
DO THEY MAKE WALL MOUNTABLE INLINE SWITCHES?

GARETH, February 2009

Go here for simple switch diagrams...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switch

Most Switches are SPDT (Singe Pole Double Throw) meaning that one wire (Single Pole) may be routed to either of two outlets (Double Throw). Switches like this are often marked with Com, L1 & L2. The Com terminal may be connected either to L1 or L2 depending on the position of the switch toggle.

To achieve what you want to do, your best approach is to fit a simple in-line switch like this one...

http://www.mr-resistor.co.uk/admin/uploads/297/2792_switch101white1_297.jpg

Please remember Lord Finchley.

Lord Finchley tried to mend the Electric Light
Himself. It struch him dead: And serve him right!
It is the business of the wealthy man
To give employment to the artisian.

Peccavi, February 2009