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Topic: Selector Switch Schematic

User: mbabne01, Location: Evansville, Indiana, USA

Asked on: Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 4:20 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 9:23 am EST

Question: When I draw in a selector switch, I draw the contacts in their normal state. So the contact for the OFF position is a normally open contact on the physical switch. The XOO indicates the state when the switch is in the OFF position. In the OFF position the normally opened contact will be closed.The second contact for the INCH position is a normally closed contact on the physical switch, and it is closed when in the INCH position (OXO). But it is not closed in the OFF or SINGLE. Is this the correct way to represent a 3 position selector switch?https://imgur.com/mui8eZp

Okay, I understand your question and the logic behind your drawing. Let's break it down and see if your representation is accurate and the best way to depict a 3-position selector switch.

Understanding Your Logic Drawing Convention

You're drawing the contacts in their
normal state (de-energized/unactuated state of the switch). This is generally a good practice in electrical schematics because it shows the default condition.

XOO, OXO

You're using these to indicate the actuated state of each contact when the switch is in a specific position. 'X' means the contact is closed, and 'O' means it's open in that particular switch position.

Analyzing Your Representation of a 3-Position Switch


Based on your description and what I can infer from your intended use of "X" and "O," here's how to interpret your selector switch: OFF Position (XOO)

The first contact (the one you describe as normally open) is

closed
. This is consistent with your statement that a normally open contact is closed in the OFF position.
INCH Position (OXO)

The second contact (the one you describe as normally closed) is

closed
. SINGLE Position (OOX)

The third contact is closed. This one was not mentioned but is shown on the linked picture.

Is This Correct?


Yes,
given your specific definitions and conventions, this could be a valid representation. However, there are a few important points to consider:1. Clarity and Ambiguity

The "XOO," "OXO," "OOX" notation is
not a standard electrical schematic notation. It's crucial that anyone reading your diagram fully understands what "X" and "O" mean in your context. Without that explicit definition, it will be confusing.2.

Standard Schematic Symbols

Electrical schematics typically use
standard symbols for switches and contacts. A standard 3-position selector switch is usually drawn with a common terminal and three output terminals. Each contact is represented with a symbol that clearly shows which terminals are connected in each position.3.

Descriptive Labeling is Critical

If you
insist on using your XOO/OXO/OOX notation, you must include a clear legend or key explaining what "X" and "O" represent, as well as that you are drawing the contacts in their normal, unactuated state. Something like:

Legend



Contacts shown in normal (unactuated) state.
X = Contact closed in this switch position. O = Contact open in this switch position.A Better Approach (Using Standard Symbols)

Here's how a 3-position selector switch would
typically be drawn using standard symbols. This assumes that the switch has a common terminal connected to one of three other terminals, depending on the position:

Common ┬│OFF ─── 1 ┐│INCH ─── 2 ┤ Selector│ SwitchSINGLE ─── 3 ┘
Explanation

The symbol represents a selector switch. "Common" is the common terminal. "OFF," "INCH," and "SINGLE" indicate the three positions of the switch. When the switch is in the "OFF" position, the "Common" terminal is connected to terminal "1". When the switch is in the "INCH" position, the "Common" terminal is connected to terminal "2". When the switch is in the "SINGLE" position, the "Common" terminal is connected to terminal "3".This notation is much more standard and readily understandable by electricians and engineers. You then label the terminals with their function.

Recommendation


I strongly recommend using standard electrical schematic symbols to represent selector switches. This will make your diagrams clearer, easier to understand, and less prone to misinterpretation. While your XOO/OXO/OOX approach
can work, it requires a very explicit explanation and is not the most effective way to communicate the switch's functionality.If you absolutely must* use your XOO/OXO/OOX notation, be sure to include a detailed legend explaining your conventions. However, consider that time spent explaining a non-standard notation could be saved by simply using standard symbols. Flag for review

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