Creating an AC Circuit with 2 Light Bulbs & a Switch

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around creating an AC circuit that includes two light bulbs and a switch, with specific behaviors for each bulb depending on the switch's position. The focus is on the circuit design and the components needed to achieve the desired functionality.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a circuit design where one light bulb lights up when the switch is open, and the other bulb lights up when the switch is closed.
  • Another participant suggests using a DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw) switch as a simple solution to achieve the desired circuit behavior.
  • There is a clarification regarding the perceived complexity of using a DPDT switch, with some participants expressing initial concerns about the difficulty of the task.
  • One participant expresses relief upon discovering that the circuit can be built with fewer components than initially expected.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a DPDT switch is a suitable and simple solution for the proposed circuit, although there is some confusion regarding the complexity of the task.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the specific wiring and configuration of the DPDT switch in relation to the light bulbs, as well as the implications of using AC versus DC components.

abro
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Hi I want to make a circuit with AC and 2 light bulbs and a switch. One light bulb will light when the switch is open, but will be off when the switch is closed. The other bulb will have the opposite effect.
I tried to use transistors but that only works for DC current.
 

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You want a simple DPDT (Double Pole Double Throw) switch. What you are describing is a common use of a DPDT switch and you can buy them at any hardware store.
 
Thanks, thought a bit too difficult.
 
abro said:
Thanks, thought a bit too difficult.

Sorry, I don't know what you mean. Do you mean that you though it would be difficult and are happy to find out that it is easy or do you mean that you think a DPDT switch is too difficult? There aren't very many things more simple than a DPDT switch and for what you want to do there is NOTHING that is more simple.
 
What I mean is that I thought it would require a lot of parts, but turns out it's that simple.
phinds said:
Sorry, I don't know what you mean. Do you mean that you though it would be difficult and are happy to find out that it is easy or do you mean that you think a DPDT switch is too difficult? There aren't very many things more simple than a DPDT switch and for what you want to do there is NOTHING that is more simple.
 
abro said:
What I mean is that I thought it would require a lot of parts, but turns out it's that simple.
Yes, good. It IS simple.
 

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