Two Switch Light - Not Three Way


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Old 09-26-10, 11:14 AM
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Two Switch Light - Not Three Way

I want two light switches for one light but not a three way configuration... meaning when either switch (or both) are on then light on. Lights only off when BOTH switches are off. What's the wiring diagram for this configuration look like?
 
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Old 09-26-10, 11:23 AM
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A three way will do what you want if I understand you. Why don't you want a three way? If you parallel two SPST switches they will do what you want. Basically run power to the light and a switch loop to each switch.
 
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Old 09-26-10, 01:48 PM
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Im not really sure why you want to do this. Im also not really sure its doable without setting it up as a three way. Ray, if wired the way you are describing you will trip the circuit when the second switch is in the ON position.
 
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Old 09-26-10, 02:10 PM
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I do not know how this can work, either. I can quickly figure it in a series, that require both switches "on", to have it turn on. But the trouble is, one switch will shut it off. In parallel, I can't see it. One could always work without the other, in the way I am thinking anyway.
Ray, draw us a picture of your secret plan.
 
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Old 09-26-10, 02:48 PM
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Ray is correct if I am correct in my interpretation of what the original poster wants. Simply parallel two SPST switches. If you want to use switch loops then make the connections for the second loop at the same connections of the first loop.
 
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Old 09-26-10, 03:42 PM
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Old 09-26-10, 03:50 PM
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Originally Posted by ElectricJoeNJ
.... Ray, if wired the way you are describing you will trip the circuit when the second switch is in the ON position.
No, see diagram in previous post.

I'm guessing he is trying to prevent the light being turned off accidentally by having two switches that need opening as opposed to the movement of one switch with a 3-way.
 

Last edited by ray2047; 09-26-10 at 04:06 PM.
 

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