Blog

Rocker Switch Wiring Diagrams

dp_admin 2 min read

Rocker switches are commonly used in a variety of applications to control power to a device or circuit. Below are several common wiring diagrams for rocker switches, depending on the type of switch and the desired functionality.

Basic Rocker Switch Wiring Diagram

Single Pole Single Throw (SPST)

An SPST switch is the simplest type of rocker switch, with only two terminals. It’s used to control a single circuit:

single-pole single-throw (SPST)
  1. Connect the power source (+) to one terminal of the switch.
  2. Connect the other terminal of the switch to the load.
  3. Connect the load to the ground (GND).

Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT)

An SPDT switch has three terminals and can be used to switch between two circuits:

single-pole double-throw (SPDT)
  1. Connect the power source (+) to the common terminal of the switch.
  2. Connect one of the other terminals to Load 1.
  3. Connect the remaining terminal to Load 2.
  4. Connect the loads to the ground (GND).

Illuminated Rocker Switch Wiring Diagram

SPST with LED Indicator

This type of switch has an internal LED that illuminates when the switch is turned on:

  1. Connect the power source (+) to one terminal of the switch.
  2. Connect the other terminal of the switch to the load.
  3. Connect the load to the ground (GND).
  4. Connect the LED terminal to the load side of the switch.

Double Pole Single Throw (DPST)

A DPST switch is used to control two separate circuits simultaneously with one switch:

double-pole single-throw (DPST)
  1. Connect Power Source 1 (+) to one terminal of the switch.
  2. Connect the other terminal of the switch to Load 1.
  3. Connect Load 1 to the ground (GND).
  4. Connect Power Source 2 (+) to another terminal of the switch.
  5. Connect the other terminal of the switch to Load 2.
  6. Connect Load 2 to the ground (GND).

Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT)

A DPDT switch can control two circuits and switch them between two different positions:

double-pole double-throw (DPDT)
  1. Connect Power Source 1 (+) to the common terminals of the switch.
  2. Connect one set of terminals to Load 1 and Load 2.
  3. Connect the other set of terminals to Load 3 and Load 4.
  4. Connect all loads to the ground (GND).

Common Applications

  • Automotive: Controlling lights, fans, and other accessories.
  • Marine: Controlling bilge pumps, lights, and other boat accessories.
  • Home Appliances: Powering devices such as coffee makers, fans, etc.

For more detailed wiring diagrams specific to your application, refer to the datasheet of the rocker switch you are using.

Related Articles