Toggle switches offer a simple and effective electrical control solution. They are often found in aircraft cockpits where they allow pilots to control various systems. There are different types of toggle switches, however, such as one-pole toggle switches.
Toggle Switches Explained
Toggle switches are circuit-controlling devices that feature a lever-like “toggle.” The toggle can be flipped up or down — and the circuit will respond accordingly.
In most applications, a toggle switch in the down position means the circuit is open. Open circuits, of course, are incomplete. The electrical current can’t reach the intended device, so the device remains off. A toggle switch in the up position, on the other hand, means the circuit is closed. The electrical current travels the closed circuit from its point of origin, such as a power supply, to the device.
One-Pole vs Two-Pole Toggle Switches
Toggle switches are often categorized by their number of poles. Some toggle switches are one pole, whereas others are two poles.
In electrical systems, a pole is a circuit with independent current paths. One-pole toggle switches are designed to control a single circuit, whereas two-pole toggle switches are designed to control two separate circuits.
Most one-pole toggle switches have the following features:
- One input connection
- One output connection
- One path for the electrical current
Two-pole toggle switches have twice the features. They typically feature two input connections, two output connections and two paths for the electrical current.
Toggle Switch Guards
There are also toggle switch guards available. They act as protective covers for toggle switches.
Whether you’re planning to use a one-pole or two-pole toggle switch, you may want to install a toggle switch guard. Toggle switches are easy to use, requiring nothing more than a flip of the lever-like toggle. Because they are so easy to use, though, there’s a risk of accidental engagement.
If someone knocks or bumps against a toggle switch, they may accidentally change the toggle’s orientation. Toggle switch guards are designed to prevent accidental switch engagement such as this. They cover toggle switches with a protective shell. You’ll typically have to open or remove the guard to access the underlying toggle switch.
Do All Airplanes Have Toggle Switches?
Toggle switches aren’t found in all airplanes. Rather, they are typically associated with older, as well as smaller, airplanes.
Many old airplanes use toggle switches to control lights, fuel pumps and various avionics systems. Newer and more modern airplanes, in comparison, often use digital controls or push-button controls.
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