switch between AC and DC

ironclads3

Junior Member
Feb 1, 2016
2
0
0
I've rigged up a box so I can switch between an AC or a DC source. I'd like to have the wires going from the switch into the box to be shared by both, but depending on which one is switched on, that would then determine if ac or dc current is entering the box. I have thought of rocker switches, but my concern, and correct me if I'm wrong, if there is voltage in the box, say in ac current, would a rocker switch, turned off on the dc side, prevent ac current from bleeding back through? Having the currents that close in a rocker switch, can they arc or interact? If so, what switch should I be using? Don't worry, my request sounds strange, but it will work. It does work now, but I'd like to have both dc and ac hooked up at the same time, which now, I either hook up one or the other. I'd like to have source cables for both, and just have the switches determine which enters the box. Can anyone out there help? Thank you.
 

sm625

Diamond Member
May 6, 2011
8,172
137
106
Dont use a 2 position switch. Use a switch that has 3 positions: AC, OFF, and DC. That way you can flip to the off position, let it sit there for a couple seconds, then flip to the other position.
 
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ironclads3

Junior Member
Feb 1, 2016
2
0
0
Thank you for the reply. Which switch would do this? I'd need a switch that keeps the ac/dc separated coming in and then based on which option is choosen, allow either ac or dc to enter. Can you point me in the right direction of what I search for, where I look for the switch you mentioned? Thank you again...
 

sm625

Diamond Member
May 6, 2011
8,172
137
106
Actually you will want something like this which has two sets of contacts to switch both +/L and -/W.

s-l1600.jpg


Just search for "DPDT On/Off/On Rocker Switch". They are dirt cheap.
 
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