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What Is a 3-Way Switch?

  • Writer: Jonathan Moreau
    Jonathan Moreau
  • Jan 4
  • 1 min read

Breaker BootCamp Study Guide


A 3-way switch controls one load from two locations.


It is always used in pairs.





What It Does



A 3-way switching system allows either switch location to change the state of the load using traveler conductors.


There is no ON or OFF marking.





Where It’s Used



  • Hallways with two entrances

  • Stairways with top and bottom control






One Critical Rule



“Two-way switch” is not a correct term.

If you can’t identify the common terminal, you don’t understand the circuit.





Why Breaker BootCamp Teaches This



The Breaker BootCamp Study Guide removes confusion around multi-location switching so the Breaker BootCamp course focuses on correct wiring logic instead of fixing miswired circuits.





About Breaker BootCamp



Breaker BootCamp is an electrical training program and electrician boot camp designed to prepare beginners, helpers, and apprentices for real-world electrical work, job readiness, and long-term careers in the electrical trade.


 
 
 

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