Wiring using the 1 and Com Terminals of a 2 Way Switch

[teddybear]

Hi,

Please help. Recently I attempted to add a second two way switch to the existing two way switch which controls the lighting in my kitchen. When I opened up the original switch, I found that the 1 and Com terminals were occupied with the 1 carrying the electric current (I tested with a test-pen). This is puzzling to me as I always thought that only terminals 1 and 2 should be used when wiring for one way. Interestingly I found that all the two ways switches in my house are wired using terminal 1 and Com. So, can I still add a second switch to my kitchen? If yes, how could I go about doing it?

 

[jj4091]

Don't you have not got a clue.

 

[breezer]

although a bit harsh sounding i have to agree with the above, you are showing no knowledge what so ever, jus ignorance, we wold all like to see you post again, I suggest you call an electrician, as there is more involved than you realise.

remember, electrcity has no prejudices, it kills anyone

 

[Steve]

teddybear, look in the wiki (go to the top of the page, in the blue diynot bar) and find the diagrams of lighting circuits in electrics uk.

For your information, a switch is a simple contact device. When the switch is flicked, the COM terminal is either connected to L1 or L2. It alternates between L1 and L2 each time the switch is flicked. So there is never any continuity between L1 and L2.

hopefully you will now see why you use COM and any other terminal for one-way wiring. See the diagrams though.