Abstract: A plug-in timer has a set of input terminals and a set of output terminals as well as a contactor operable to make and/or break electrical connection between these sets of terminals in accordance with a pre-setable 24 hour program. The timer is powered from a small built-in battery, and comprises its own quartz clock and programming-and-control means. The contactor is actuated by a miniature DC motor through a gear and cam arrangement. The operation of the DC motor is controlled by the programming-and-control means, which provides power from the battery to the motor in accordance with a pre-set program; which pre-set program may be modified at any time by way of a keyboard and a numeric display means. The contactor operates by way of hard metal contacts and very little power dissipation occurs within the timer. The timer can be plugged into a special wall switch receptacle and then operates to programmably control the flow of power to the load controlled by this wall switch.

Abstract: A computer system with a number of subsystems or modules on separate circuit boards employs electronic keying to ensure proper configuration of these boards. A power key arrangement associated with a plug-in connector enables a separate power supply for each set of boards. A power supply turn-on signal is routed through a uniquely-configured connector path for each board, so the power supply turn-on is inhibited for improper configurations. The uniquely-configured connector path may use either a series or a parallel implementation. The series implementation employs a set of diodes connected for conduction in either of two directions, with the mating connector having its conductor paths connected to match the diode configuration; in this manner, the power supply enable signal can only flow through the series path if the proper board is plugged into a properly-coded slot, in which case the power supply to activate this board is activated through the series path including the diodes.

Abstract: A dynamic system is provided by which an electrically-powered load recovers from a power outage after power is restored. In one embodiment, full power is applied to the load when power is first restored and load power is then gradually reduced to a final value. In another embodiment, load power goes from full on to a low value in a series of steps. Initial and final power levels, as well as the sequence of power reductions (or increases), are determined by the system parameters. The system finds particular advantage when the load is controllable by a wireless transmitter.

Abstract: A computer system with a number of subsystems or modules on separate circuit boards employs electronic keying to ensure proper configuration of these boards. A power key arrangement associated with a plug-in connector enables a separate power supply for each set of boards. A power supply turn-on signal is routed through a uniquely-configured connector path for each board, so the power supply turn-on is inhibited for improper configurations. The uniquely-configured connector path may use either a series or a parallel implementation. The series implementation employs a set of diodes connected for conduction in either of two directions, with the mating connector having its conductor paths connected to match the diode configuration; in this manner, the power supply enable signal can only flow through the series path if the proper board is plugged into a properly-coded slot, in which case the power supply to activate this board is activated through the series path including the diodes.

Abstract: A power on/off circuit with a lock function includes a momentary type main switch connected to ground, a two-circuit two-contact lock switch coupled to, a switching state holding circuit, a load and a power supply. One of the switching circuits in the lock switch is connected between the main switch and the input terminal (CK) of the switching state holding circuit. The other switching circuit in the lock switch is connected between the main switch and the reset terminal (CLR) of the switching state holding circuit. The switching state of the main switch is held by the switching state holding circuit, and the state is maintained unless a reset signal is applied to the switching state holding circuit. The lock switch only functions to generate the reset signal so that the lock switch does not cut off the supply of current to the load as in a conventional shaver.

Abstract: A lighting load can be turned on/off manually from one or more remote switching stations as well as from a master switch controller station, with ON/OFF control signals produced at the remote switching stations being transmitted to the master controller circuit on the traveler conductor of a conventional single phase AC power distribution system. The main controller has an internal dual mode DC power supply which is referenced to load potential. The dual mode power supply derives operating power from the voltage across the gate controlled power switch which corresponds with essentially hot potential when the power switch is off. The voltage drop across the power switch is boosted by a step-up transformer when the power switch is on. Remote turn-on and turn-off signals are derived independently from the hot power conductor and ground safety power conductor, respectively.

Abstract: A control circuit (C) for controlling fluorescent lamps (102, 104 & 106) from a switch (S) having "open" and "closed" positions. The circuit senses whether the switch is (i) open, (ii) closed within less than approximately 0.5 seconds of last being opened, or (iii) closed for the first timne or after a time greater than approximately 0.5 seconds after last being opened, and produces one of three output signals respectively dependent thereon. The control circuit uses only a conventional two-position switch and conventional wiring and avoids the need for additional switches and additional wiring.

Abstract: A microprocessor-based power switching circuit responds to a common form of noise by disconnecting power from the controlled apparatus. The microprocessor provides an alternating voltage when power is to be provided, and the alternating voltage is converted by a detector circuit to a voltage close to ground which cuts off a transistor. When the transistor is cut off, an interface circuit places a thyristor which performs the actual power switching, into conduction. Noise on the base of the transistor can only drive it into conduction which then puts the thyristor into non-conduction.

Abstract: Disclosure herein is an interface circuit for a semiconductor memory device, which is so structured that, when a control signal (VBC) is supplied to a control signal input end, a transistor (2) first enters a conducting state to supply a supply voltage to a semiconductor memory device (1) and thereafter bus control means (7, 8) is brought into a conducting state by a control signal delayed by a delay circuit (22), to supply bus signals (ADD', CTD' and DTS') to the semiconductor memory device.

Abstract: A power supply control circuit for use in an automobile telephone to which power is supplied in response to a power switch signal and to an ignition voltage. The power switch signal is generated by a power switch in a handset of the telephone. The ignition voltage is produced by turning on an ignition key. The power supply control circuit comprises an emergency switch which manually produces an emergency switch signal. An emergency switch monitor circuit monitors the state of the emergency switch and produces an emergency control signal when it receives the emergency switch signal. Upon the emergency control signal, an ignition voltage control circuit produces the ignition voltage regardless of the condition of the ignition key. Upon the emergency control signal, a power switch control circuit produces the power switch signal regardless of the condition of the power switch.

Abstract: A system controls electrical power to multiple loads from both a central location and from local three-way controls. In one embodiment, the system includes means for sensing the power to each load. That sensing capability, in turn, permits the master to set all loads to the same power level, simultaneously, regardless of their original level. The local controls may be standard three-way dimmers or switches.

Abstract: A programmable timer for turning a light on and off in response to changing sunset, daylight savings time, and other programmable conditions. The programmable timer includes an input device, a microprocessor, and a switch. The input device provides calendar, geographical, and daylight savings information to the microprocessor, which stores the programming information. The microprocessor computes an effective switching time from the stored information. The microprocessor employs program logic that compares the effective switching time to the current time to generate a timing control signal. The timing control signal, in turn, causes the switch to turn a light on and off. In the preferred embodiment, the microprocessor and the switch are included within a housing which mounts on a wall in place of a normal light switch. A liquid crystal display is disposed on a face of the housing to provide a read out of the programming information and of the time of day.

Abstract: A multiplex connector, which includes a first circuit for providing a reference voltage to a photoelectric comparator by means of a photoelectric operation so as to further control a charge/recharge-timer circuit; a second circuit comprising a pyroelectric infrared detector which is triggered by means of a change in ambient temperature for providing a signal through an amplifier circuit and a window-limited comparator to the charge/recharge-timer circuit for closing or opening a driving circuit to further control the load. Through full-wave rectification and current amplification, an electronic switching circuit is also provided to control the power supply to the load which is connected thereto in series.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an integrated outlet that allows supply of AC power to an outlet receptacle when certain conditions are satisfied. The integrated outlet contains separate modules to establish electrical connection with electrical conductors that transmit AC and DC power, telecommunications, control communications, and signals transmitted along a coaxial wire. In a preferred embodiment, these electrical conductors are disposed on two cables. Each module within the integrated outlet attaches to only certain standard conductors in each of the two cables. The integrated outlet can then be efficiently connected to the conductors in each of the two cables.

Abstract: A system disconnection detection circuit for a distributed location power source having a generating element and an invertor for converting a generated output from the generating element into an AC output superimposes a selected signal on the AC output of the invertor. The circuit detects system disconnection on the output side of the invertor on the basis of the AC output of the invertor on which the selected signal has been superimposed.

Abstract: A dynamic load circuit constructed so that the current shunted thereby is high at low voltages and low at high voltages. The impedance of the dynamic load circuit is negative over a portion of its operating range so that current will decrease with increasing voltage over that range. The foregoing is accomplished by the provision of a two-stage inverting direct current amplifier with a low impedance load and a selected offset voltage.

Abstract: A remote control mechanism for controlling electricity from a non-interruptible electric supply, and for optionally and simultaneously controlling electricity from a second, but interruptible electric supply like that provided by a clock-actuated switch in series with a continuous electric supply. The mechanism is useful as an actuating means for electrical apparatus plugged-in to its outlet.

Abstract: A dual resistance connector system is provided to allow the replacement of power regulators in a computer system without removing power from the operating voltage bus. The new power regulator can be "hot plugged" into the voltage bus without creating a voltage drop on the bus which could lead to voltage transients and logic errors. The low resistance bus bar is augmented by a retractable high resistance contact. The high resistance contact is configured to make electrical connection with the operating voltage bus before the low resistance contact. The establishment of a high resistance circuit allows charging of output filter capacitors without creating a large voltage drop on the operating voltage bus. As installation continues, the low resistance bus bar makes contact and is held in position by a fastener. The fastener is initially held out of electrical contact by a compression spring.

Abstract: The power supply circuit supplies electric current to a plurality of circuits in turn. The power supply circuit has a power source (5); a resistor (4); one end of which is connected to the power source (5); a first current path (1), one end of which is connected to the other end of the resistor (4), and including a first driver circuit (12); a second current path (2), one end of which is connected to the other end of the resistor (4), and including a second driver circuit (22); and a controller (3) which drives the first and second driver circuits (12, 22) alternatively. The controller (3) controls the on-and-off timings of the first and second driver circuits (12, 22) so that the first current path (12) is maintained in the ON state for a time equal to or more than a predetermined necessary time, and the second current path (22) is broken for a time equal to or less than an allowed time.

Abstract: A solid state semiconductor power switch for controlling the application of AC power to a load wherein the power switch employs momentary ON/OFF switches for activating the power switch, and wherein additional circuit means is provided to preserve the ON/OFF condition or state of the power switch during a power-down situation such that upon restoration of the AC power the power switch can be caused to assume the same ON or OFF state it was in just prior to the power-down situation.

Abstract: A TV decoder low loss switching system includes relay operated switch contacts for directly connecting an input signal without loss to a decoder tuner in the normal or enabled mode or bypassing the input signal to a TV in the bypass mode. The switch is parallelled by an impedance to permit a small amount signal singal to be applied to the tuner (in the bypass mode) for data purposes. In one embodiment, a second set of simultaneously actuated contacts connects the output of the decoder to the output terminal. In another embodiment, a channel 3/4 modulator is supplied by the decoder and its output connected via a PIN diode to the output terminal. The PIN diode is biased into conduction by actuation of a transistor switch responsive to the microprocessor enabling the decoder. The conduction of the PIN diode permits the channel 3/4 modulator signal to pass to the output terminal.

Abstract: In a circuit for controlling a pulsating current through an inductor, particularly the coil of an electromagnetic valve, the inductor is connected in series with a semiconductor switch and in parallel with a free-running diode. Furthermore a desired-value voltage is fed to a controller the output of which is connected via a pulse-width modulator to a control input of the semiconductor switch. A current flows through the inductor and the semiconductor switch, during a state of conduction of the semiconductor switch, to be measured. The current measurement is gated, in response to pulse-width modulation at the controller, and is then integrated for improved measurement of the current.

Abstract: A controller for outdoor lighting systems turns lights on and off at predetermined times during the day which are designated by a user. The turn on time is set when the user first turns on the lights. The turn off time is fixed by allowing the user to specify the amount of time that the lights will stay lit. The controller repeats the on-off sequence every 24 hours unless it is reprogrammed. Accurate timing is maintained by counting the pulses in standard 120 V, 60 Hz, line current. A manual override is provided which does not interfere with the programmed time sequence.

Abstract: A remote control power disconnect circuit for providing a ground fault across an electrical outlet when an unsafe condition such as a lost neutral or shorting of the AC power switch is detected. The remote control power disconnect circuit is placed at each electrical outlet within a dwelling and applies AC power to the outlet only when an appliance (load) is plugged into the outlet and no fault condition is detected. However, when a fault condition is detected, the circuit also functions to apply a ground fault across the outlet and to shut-off the supply of AC power to the outlet. Then, once the fault condition has been remedied, the circuit may be remotely reset so that AC power may again be applied to the electrical outlet.

Abstract: An intelligent AC outlet is adapted to mate with a plug. The plug carries coded information as to the power which it draws. A microprocessor, a switch and a sensor are carried in the outlet. The switch is interposed between the outlet and AC power lines and is operated by the microprocessor. The microprocessor continually scans the sensor. When the plug is inserted into the outlet, the sensor reads the code. If the microprocessor detects a valid code, it operates the switch applying power to the plug. If a valid code is not detected, the outlet remains electrically isolated from the power lines and this can not be overriden by the user.

Abstract: An automatic switching apparatus is disclosed for a system employing a battery and a charging device. A load is automatically disconnected in response to the decrease in voltage caused by an inactivation of the charging device so that the battery will not be undesirably discharges if the load is not turned off. An override switch is provided to allow the load to draw power even when the charging device is not operating.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for transmitting signals from a control device to a diagnostic device in a motor vehicle, a transmission of signals in a serial form is obtained by means of an electric current. In order to detect whether the diagnostic device is connected to the control device a voltage is measured in a diagnostic signal-conducting lead connected to the diagnostic device. This voltage is varied by means of a resistor mounted at the input of the diagnostic device when the diagnostic device is connected to the control device.

Abstract: A new type of power source switching circuit is disclosed. In the device of the present invention, a relay is used instead of semiconductor elements which are used in the conventional types of power source switching circuit. Compared with the conventional ones, the circuit according to the present invention is much simpler, and assures the protection of the circuit against damages due to an overvoltage or impact pulses, which damages are liable to occur in the conventional types of power source switching circuit.

Abstract: In an automatic power turn-off apparatus, a signal for turning off power supply is outputted from a timer IC when time set by a power-off time setting key arrives, whereby the power supply of an associated copying apparatus is turned off. In the turn-off period, if an MPU determines that the copying apparatus is in trouble, the turn-off of the power supply is cancelled and the occurrence of the trouble in the copying apparatus is displayed in a display device to notify the user of the trouble.

Abstract: A system is provided for automatically switching an electric circuit on and off at certain times of the day, in which those certain times of the day vary throughout the year in accordance with a pattern built into the system and are not intended to be altered by the user. A computer timer provides the time of day and day of the year. A memory is permanently programmed with data that are stored to identify switch-on times and switch-off times for each day. The time of day and day of the year are compared with the switch-on times and switch-off times that are stored in the memory, and a current switching device is operated accordingly to switch an appliance, such as an electric lamp, on and off at the programmed switch-on times and switch-off times, respectively.

Abstract: A hybrid analog and electronic cycle timer has a mechanical movement and cam-operated cycle switch driven by a low-RPM synchronous motor. Electronic control logic divides the power line frequency to obtain pulses for pulsing the synchronous motor. The control logic also includes an activation interval timer and a lockout flip-flop which inhibits the activation interval timer. The activation interval timer is otherwise triggered by closure of the cycle switch. The lockout flip-flop is set after a power failure and at the end of the activation interval, and is reset by a manual reset signal. The activation interval timer may include an activation enable flip-flop and an activation interval counter. The state of the control circuit is conveniently indicated by an indicator which is activated continuously during the activation interval, and which is activated intermittently when the activation interval timer is inhibited by the lockout flip-flop.

Abstract: A switching circuit for supplying electric power to a load from a power source includes a first relay device having a first switch and a semiconductor switching element connected in series with the first switch, power source and load. A second relay device is provided which is defined by a second switch connected parallelly to the semiconductor switching element and an actuating switch for enabling and disabling the semiconductor switching element. The second relay device is so arranged as to effect the make of the actuating switch and second switch in said order and to effect the break of the same in the opposite order. A delay circuit is provided for controlling the first and second relay devices such that when supplying a current to the load, the first and second relay devices are turned on in said order so that the first switch, the actuating switch and the second switch are turned on in said order.

Abstract: A programmable timeswitch comprises a microcontroller and a switching relay for controlling the supply of electricity to electrical apparatus in accordance with a predetermined `yearly` program stored in an EPROM. The yearly program can include different daily programs for weekdays and weekends and includes different seasonal programs to take account of different demands for electricity at different times of the year. The timeswitch is programmed to switch automatically from one seasonal program to the next seasonal program on predetermined dates in the year and so does not have to be re-programmed at intervals throughout the year. The timeswitch may be used as part of a `deferable load program` run by a utility in which a large number of timeswitches are supplied to different installations, the timeswitches having been programmed by a master console under the sole control of the utility.

Abstract: A limiter switching apparatus includes a control box adapted for being mounted on a machine table with a plurality of terminals and indicators for making electrical connections; and an interface circuit device installed in the control box and electrically connected to the terminals and indicators for effecting switching operations.

Abstract: A foot operated safety switch, preferably including an electronic control reset circuit, is connected between a source of electrical current and the power cord of an electrically operated device having an on/off switch on it. The safety switch operates as an off-only device and cannot be used to turn on the device once it has been operated to turn the device off. To reoperate the device, the on/off switch on the device first must be turned off and then turned backon. This reset necessity also is incorporated into the system to prevent the device from being automatically turned back on after it has been turned off by a power failure.

Abstract: A self-contained electronic wall switch actuator can easily be mounted directly onto the outside of the face plate of an ordinary wall switch. When so mounted, the actuator engages the wall switch's actuating lever and permits the automatic actuation of the wall switch by way of simple touch action: (i) by lightly pressing a Bypass Key, the wall switch is caused to reverse its state from ON to OFF, or from OFF to ON, whichever is appropriate; (ii) by lightly pressing a Delay Key, the wall switch is caused to enter its ON-state and to remain there for a presetable first period of time; and (iii) by lightly pressing a Cycle Key, the wall switch will, starting right then and repeatedly every 24 hours thereafter, enter its ON-state for a presetable second period of time.The actuator comprises a small battery, a miniature electric motor with a gear/linkage mechanism operable to engage with and to move the wall switch's actuating lever between its OFF and ON positions, and a quartz-clock-based programming means.

Abstract: A load control switching system includes a switching element adapted to be coupled between a power source and a load. The switch element is operable in an ON state wherein it supplies power from the source to the load and an OFF state wherein it cuts off power from the source to the load. A control circuit controls operation of the switching element in response to the actuation of one or more short-throw, light-force switches which are each movable between a normally open and a momentarily closed position. The control circuit alternates the state of the switching element each time the short-throw, light-force switch is momentarily closed.

Abstract: A digital display instrument with an automatic power-off device built-in which comprises a control circuit, a timing circuit and a display detection circuit. The power of the instrument is controlled by a push-button switch so that when the push-button switch is pressed down and released immediately, the power is turned on. If the push-button switch is pressed down and held for about 1.5 seconds, however, the power is turned off. The power can be turned off automatically by detecting if the instrument has not been used for a pre-set period of time. After the power is turned on, the display detection circuit will monitor the reading on the display continuously to determine whether the instrument is in use or not. If the detection shows the instrument is still in use, the timer will be reset to maintain the power on for another period of time. However, if a condition of not being in use is detected within the preset period of time, the power will be turned off automatically.

Abstract: First and second switches are switches to be detected. An AC signal source supplies AC signals to the switches. A controller includes: one photocoupler for outputting a signal when a supplied current is positive and is equal to or greater than a first current, and when the supplied current is negative and equal to or smaller than a second current; a first diode for receiving an output signal from the AC signal source when the first switch is turned on, and outputting a positive current to the photocoupler; a second diode for receiving an output signal from the AC signal source when the second switch is turned on, and outputting a negative current to the photocoupler; a first latch for latching an output signal from the photocoupler when the AC signal is positive; a second latch for latching output data from the photocoupler when the AC signal is negative; and a CPU.

Abstract: A line condition sensing device, e.g. a current transformer and/or a voltage transformer, is embedded in a pole mounted, power line supporting insulator to form an integral unit therewith. One end of the insulator carries a pole mounting base. The other end of the insulator carries a power line receiving clamp. The line condition sensing device is connected in parallel with a hot power line by taps to permit conditions to be monitored without cutting or dead ending the line. The device is installed on a hot line by opening the power line receiving clamp of the original insulator, holding the power line in spaced relationship from the original insulator while replacing it with the new insulator, resecuring the power line on the clamp of the new insulator, and then connecting the taps to the hot power line.

Abstract: The present invention utilizes a latching relay having on and off inputs for controlling power to a load. The on and off inputs of the relay are controlled by pulse generators which are in turn controlled by an occupancy sensor circuit. These pulse generators provide pulses when movement is initially detected in a room and when no movement has been detected for a predetermined time, respectively. The outputs of the pulse generators are coupled to an isolation circuit which isolates the power supply for the occupancy sensor from the pulses during each pulse to prevent damage to the power supply.

Abstract: The switch includes a cantilevered switch arm including a power contact, first and second switch terminals with the power contact positioned therebetween, the cantilevered switch arm being yieldably biased with the power contact engaging the first switch terminal. A manually operated lever is provided for engaging and disengaging the switch arm and moving the power contact into engagement with the second switch terminal. A pivotable latch arm is provided for latching the switch arm with the power terminal engaging the second switch terminal. A solenoid is actuable in response to removal of power from the power contact for pivoting the latch arm and releasing the switch arm.

Abstract: Infrasonic switch device to actuate an alarm in response to detection of infrasonic energy, including a multi-position switch circuit having a "standby" or "reset" position responsive to infrasonic signals, an infrasonic detection circuit to detect and pass selected levels of infrasonic energy, a trigger circuit to actuate an alarm such as a light or a buzzer for a predetermined time upon detection of the selected levels of infrasonic energy, and a timing circuit to permit actuation of the alarm for a predetermined time when the multi-position switch is in the "standby" or "reset" mode. The device also includes delay switching angle circuitry to consume the power to operate the device's internal components utilizing only selected portions of both the positive and negative AC power cycle and to utilize the balance of each AC cycle to operate the alarm.

Abstract: A temperature sensing circuit including a temperature sensing element located at a medium to sense the temperature of the medium. The sensing element is a resistive element with a range of resistive values corresponding to a range of sensed temperatures. The sensing element is connected to circuitry for detecting variations of the resistance of the element. The circuitry provides an output signal of one state when the element resistance increases beyond a first value and provides an output signal of a second state when the element resistance decreases beyond a second value.

Abstract: A rotary drive mechanism has a yoke mounted on a motor shaft which engages a crank connected to a device to be rotated, such as the rotary portion of a microwave switch. When the gear motor is activated, the yoke causes the crank to move from a first position to a position past top dead center. A spring connected to the crank causes the crank to snap from the position past top dead center to a second position. A microswitch at the second position provides a signal to brake the motor when the crank reaches the second position. The yoke is configured like a V with the attachment point to the motor being the base of the V. A post from the crank is contained within the area defined by the legs of the V at a point where the shaft will not contact the opposite leg when the crank passes top dead center and is snapped to the second position.

Abstract: A camera control unit includes a control section for generating various control outputs, a power generator for generating power, and an identifying signal generator for generating an identifying signal. One end of a camera cable is connected to the camera control unit to transmit the control outputs, the power, and the identifying signal. A camera head is connected to the other end of the camera cable. The camera head includes a camera section for receiving the control outputs and sending a video output, an identifying signal detector for receiving the identifying signal and identifying the appropriate type of camera head, a power switch circuit for receiving the power and switching the power on the basis of an identification result of the identifying signal detector, and a power supply circuit for supplying the DC power from the power switch circuit to the camera section.

Abstract: An automatic safety switch apparatus is provided for interrupting power to an electrical appliance such as a cooking stove after a predetermined period of operation. The apparatus includes a current detector for sensing a threshold current level between a power source and the appliance, a timer responsive to the detector, and a relay driven by the timer for opening a circuit between the source and the appliance. The timer, which can be programmed to provide a maximum interval of time during which the appliance can be safely operated unattended, is automatically reset when the appliance is turned off.

Abstract: A cycling circuit for cycling a power source alternately between two loads provides switching circuitry having two switches interconnected between the power source and each of the loads. When each switch is in an active state, its respective load receives power, and when each switch is in an inactive state, its respective load does not receive power. A timing circuit controls the activation and deactivation of the switches so that the activation of one switch deactivates the other with the timing circuit establishing directions for each switch's active/deactive state. These durations may be set or selectively variable. A condition sensing element may also be included as part of the timing circuit so that the relative time durations vary automatically in response to environmental conditions such as temperature.

Abstract: A switching circuit for supplying electric power to a load from a power source includes a first relay device having a first switch and a semiconductor switching element connected in series with the first switch, power source and load. A second relay device is provided which is defined by a second switch connected parallelly to the semiconductor switching element and an actuating switch for enabling and disabling the semiconductor switching element. The second relay device is so arranged as to effect the make of the actuating switch and second switch in said order and to effect the break of the same in the opposite order. A delay circuit is provided for controlling the first and second relay devices such that when supplying a current to the load, the first and second relay devices are turned on in said order so that the first switch, the actuating switch and the second switch are turned on in said order.

Abstract: A dimmer switch and dimmer system is described in which dimming for the entire system is controlled from a single device while on/off switching is controlled by individual devices at multiple locations. The main dimming device contains an alternate action switching circuit for opening and closing the gate circuit of a controllably conductive device. Each of the remote location switching devices consists of respective low voltage switches, each operable to operate the alternate action switching circuit in the main dimmer device and are connected thereto by wiring which carries only signal level voltages and currents. Each remote switch may be a wall-mounted switch containing a single, relatively large area push button which momentarily closes a short movement, low activation force pair of contacts when the large area push button is depressed by pressure applied to any portion over its surface.