UK 230V.
In my arcade machine I currently have a simple 4 socket extension lead, and plugged into that a PC, a monitor, and a couple of 12V wallwarts.
Now I want to add an illuminated rocker switch into the circuit (to avoid having to switch off at the wall socket).
What type of switch should I use, and how to wire it ? The extension lead has 3 wires (Live,Earth,Neutral). I've googled but there are too many different answers. Looks like a choice between 2,3,4,6 poles !
thanks
In my arcade machine I currently have a simple 4 socket extension lead, and plugged into that a PC, a monitor, and a couple of 12V wallwarts.
Now I want to add an illuminated rocker switch into the circuit (to avoid having to switch off at the wall socket).
What type of switch should I use, and how to wire it ? The extension lead has 3 wires (Live,Earth,Neutral). I've googled but there are too many different answers. Looks like a choice between 2,3,4,6 poles !
thanks
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You need a switch that is suitable for 13A @ 230V which isn't a common item for an inline type of switch. In-line light switches are only 2A or less and would be a safety hazard due to arcing when switching the full 13A that could be drawn.
A 2 pole switch would allow L and N to be switched but I don't think there is any requirement for that and a single pole switch in the live only would normally used in the same way that a wall outlet only switches the live side.
A 2 pole switch would allow L and N to be switched but I don't think there is any requirement for that and a single pole switch in the live only would normally used in the same way that a wall outlet only switches the live side.
Thanks,
Let's say I'm going with this:
https://cpc.farnell.com/molveno/sx8211881g110000/rocker-switch-20a-red-dp-off-on/dp/SW05303
I'm putting this switch between the wall plug and the 4 sockets. I know what to do with Live and Neutral now.
I assume I just run the earth straight through my new 'switch box' ?
I don't want to sound reckless, but is the earth needed? or just desirable? Also the box is all wood, so there is nothing to connect the earth to. Yeah, I'm confused about the earth's purpose.
Let's say I'm going with this:
https://cpc.farnell.com/molveno/sx8211881g110000/rocker-switch-20a-red-dp-off-on/dp/SW05303
I'm putting this switch between the wall plug and the 4 sockets. I know what to do with Live and Neutral now.
I assume I just run the earth straight through my new 'switch box' ?
I don't want to sound reckless, but is the earth needed? or just desirable? Also the box is all wood, so there is nothing to connect the earth to. Yeah, I'm confused about the earth's purpose.
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Something like that is fine, I was thinking you wanted it in-line with the flex.
Earth must never be switched and should have direct continuity.
The earth should always be present on any standard consumer outlet to allow for connection of any equipment needing an earth. You might forget in years to come, or someone else could come along and plug something in that needed an earth.
Earth must never be switched and should have direct continuity.
The earth should always be present on any standard consumer outlet to allow for connection of any equipment needing an earth. You might forget in years to come, or someone else could come along and plug something in that needed an earth.
thanks, that makes sense. The sockets will be inside the cabinet, but the rear panel can be removed, so if it looks like a standard outlet it should have the standard protections.
I *think* this is how you wire a 2P switch to UK colors. Wait and see if some UK expert berates my ignorance.
You know the real Mario just passed away?
You know the real Mario just passed away?
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