How To Order Toggle Switches

If you need a toggle switch, the first thing you need to figure out is the circuit. A simple way to determine what you need is to take a look at the terminals (which are located on the bottom of the switch).

Number of Terminals Circuit Circuit Diagram 2 Lugs Single Pole Single Throw SPST 3 lugs Single Pole Double Throw SPDT 4 Lugs Double Pole Single Throw DPST 6 Lugs Double Pole Double Throw DPDT 9 Lugs Three Pole Double Throw 3PDT 12 Lugs Four Pole Double Throw 4PDT

Note: This chart works for 90 percent of the cases but there are exceptions. For example illuminated switches have an extra lug or two for the illuminated position in the switch. So in theory you can have a switch with six lugs which is a 3 pole single throw switch. The way to tell the difference between a DPDT switch and a 3PST switch is the width. A 3PST switch is wider.