Probably a Stupid Question About a Schematic, some help appreciated

[scdreger]

Hi all,

I've found a circuit I want to tinker with this weekend. I'm a little unsure about what is being shown for the DPDT switch wiring. In the schematic's switch "up" position it's clear what's happening, but in the "down" position, does that dotted line indicate a connection between those two areas? Via the switch of course. It's a little confusing for a relative newb.

[helius]

A dotted line on a schematic is a mechanical linkage. In this case it shows that the switch is 3PDT (3 pole, dual throw). With the switch in the up position, all three contacts are in the upper position, and vice-versa.

[scdreger]

OK. I get it now. Told you it was probably a stupid question. 

Thank you!!!

[Brumby]

Don't fret.

Until you know the answer, there's never a stupid question.



It's only after you know that the face palm moment happens.   

[helius]

Oh another minor point: when the switch contacts are drawn in the middle like that, sometimes it means the switch has a center detent, where it doesn't connect to either throw. But not everyone uses that convention; I don't think the above schematic intends it that way.

[Zero999]

Another thing of note is that momentary push-buttons and non-latching relays, should always be drawn with the contacts in the non-energised state.

[tpowell1830]

Helius +1 for TPDT
Helius -1 for center detent