Two-way switches ... break-before-make ?

[marmite]

Are domestic 2-way (light) switches break-before-make? If so is it acceptable to reply upon this as a method of "disconnecting" from one terminal before connecting to the other?

I'd ideally like to use one to switch the live feed to a PIR to the live feed to the light which the PIR controls (as an "always on"); diconnecting the PIR first.

Yes, the PIR has an "always on" function, but this subsequently relies on you hanging around for half-a-minute to switch it off - I'd rather just flick a switch!

 

[breezer]

why not just use an ordainairy switch and put a live feed direct to the lamp?

 

[marmite]

Had a feeling someone was going to say that

Not knowing how PIRs are constructed, I wasn't sure whether it was feasible to have its load "live" when the PIR wasn't "switched". Seems like the answer is YES!

Ta

PS Still like to know the break-before-make answer ... just out of curiosity!

 

[breezer]

yes, see for refernce

 

[Paul_C]

PS Still like to know the break-before-make answer ... just out of curiosity!

All the domestic light switches I've ever tested have been break-before-make.

It's a good question though -- I don't recall ever seeing anything in British Standard specs to say they must be (transfer switches must be, of course).