DC rated 3 way switch

[arnettda]

I am looking to control a set of RV steps a customer installed going up onto a work table from two spots. I can not find a D.C. rated 3 way switch, do they make one? or is there another way?

 

[winnie]

A three way switch is another name for a single pole double throw switch.

Depending upon the voltage and current involved these can be common or hen's teeth.

See for example https://www.homedepot.com/p/NSi-Ind...-Single-Throw-Toggle-Switch-78300TS/307249028

 

[LarryFine]

What physical form do you want it to have? Constant on or momentary? Center off?

Automotive, RV, truck, and boating stores have many different high-current DC switches.

There's also the option of a light-duty switch controlling a couple of automotive relays.

 

[arnettda]

Thank You, It took me a little bit to wrap my head around that even when I drew it out.

 

[LarryFine]

It would be the same as using a pair of push-buttons, one for up and one for down.

If you're not switching the motor current directly, there must already be relays in the unit.

Is all you need, electrically speaking, a center-off, momentary-contact rocker switch?

Did the steps come with a wiring diagram? If so, can you post a picture of it?

 

[gar]

220304-1704 EST

Switching DC is much different than AC. There are at least two factors to consider. See if you can figure out the correct questions to ask to study this problem.

.

 

[petersonra]

Eaton makes a bunch of toggle switches in just about every configuration known to mankind. I seem to recall some are DC rated upto 28 vdc.

 

[Jraef]

The two critical questions are voltage and current. you cannot interpret that the current rating at 120V or 240V AC is going to be the same for DC, even at 12 or 24VDC. So you have to know both factors before looking for a switch and the functionality, because if you are wanting a lot of current and/or a higher DC voltage for this, your choices will be severely limited.

 

[hillbilly1]

It would be the same as using a pair of push-buttons, one for up and one for down.

If you're not switching the motor current directly, there must already be relays in the unit.

Is all you need, electrically speaking, a center-off, momentary-contact rocker switch?

Did the steps come with a wiring diagram? If so, can you post a picture of it?

Yeah, usually they have relays and limit switches. The factory control switch is low amp. Usually a door contact, and a hand/off/auto switch inside. Usually a maintained contact.