Electrical 101

All switches are toggled down to create an open path, light is off.

Switch 1 is toggled up to create a continuous path, light is on.

Switch 2 is toggled up to open the path, light is off.

4-Way Switch Wiring Using 4 or More Switches

4-way switches have four terminals each with two pairs of travelers (one pair usually black and and the other pair brass color). A three switch configuration will have two 3-way switches, one on each end and one 4-way switch in the middle.

In the diagrams below, switch 1 common terminal connects to line voltage.

Switch 1 pair of traveler terminals connects to the top or bottom pair of traveler terminals on switch 2.

The other pair of switch 2 travelers connect the to a pair of traveler terminals on switch 3.

The other pair of switch 3 travelers connect the traveler terminals on switch 4.

The switch 4 common terminal connects to the load (lights).

Ground connection is not shown in these diagrams.

4-Way Switches Page 2

Toggling 4-Way Switches

Electrical Switches

4-Way Switches

4-Way Switches 2

4-Way Switch Wiring

4-Way Switch Wiring Option

4-Way Switches Page 1

4-Way Switches Page 2

4-Way Switch Wiring Diagrams