What is a changeover switch and when is it used?

A changeover switch lets you manually transfer a load between two power sources—typically utility and generator—to ensure continuous power during an outage.

How does a changeover switch work?

On detecting primary source failure, the switch breaks connection to the first source and makes connection to the alternate source by lever movement (manual) or control logic (automatic).

What is a main switch (electrical isolator)?

A main switch, or isolator, disconnects an electrical circuit from its power source for safe maintenance and emergency shutdowns.

What is a bypass switch in a UPS system?

A bypass switch diverts load around the UPS—either statically on UPS fault or manually for maintenance—so critical loads stay powered during service.

What is an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?

An ATS senses utility power loss, automatically starts a backup generator, transfers the load, then reverts to utility power once restored.

What is a modular switch?

Modular switches are customizable wall-plate switches with interchangeable modules—rockers, dimmers, sockets—within a common frame and finish options.

What’s the difference between manual and automatic transfer switches?

Manual transfer switches require physical operation to change sources, while automatic transfer switches detect power loss and switch sources without human intervention.

What are the benefits of using bypass switches?

Bypass switches ensure uninterrupted power during UPS servicing or faults by diverting load, protecting sensitive equipment and enabling maintenance without downtime.

How do I choose the right transfer switch for my installation?

Choose a switch rated for your system’s voltage and load, identify circuits needing backup, and consider features like enclosure rating, indicators, and compliance with safety standards.

What safety standards govern these switches?

Low-voltage transfer and isolator switches must comply with IEC 62271-102 and NEC/IEC regulations; modular wall switches adhere to BIS/IEC standards for fire resistance and insulation.

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Cable House stocks a full range of manual and automatic power distribution switches - main isolators, changeover and bypass switches, plus automatic transfer switches for complete control and safety of your electrical systems. In addition, we are an authorized distributor of North-West Switch branded modular switches, including the Venia, Convex, and Artisa series, to bring style and reliability to your interiors.

Power-Distribution Switch Types

Main & Changeover Switches: Manual main switches serve as the primary isolator for entire panels, while changeover switches allow safe, manual transfer between two power sources (e.g., utility and generator), ensuring zero‐downtime during source transitions.
Bypass Switches: Bypass switches including static and maintenance bypass enable diversion of load around UPS or critical equipment during service or fault conditions, keeping essential systems live without interruption.
Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS): ATS units monitor utility power and, on detecting an outage, automatically start a standby generator and switch the load; once normal supply returns, they safely revert back and cool down the generator.

North-West Modular Switch Series

Venia

Design & Finish: Ultra-slim polycarbonate plate with satin finish for seamless wall integration
Unique Features: Built-in neon indicators and a 360° rotating, hum-free fan regulator for intuitive control of lights and fans
Durability: High-grade, flame-retardant materials tested to rigorous standards ensure long service life

Convex

Body Material: High-impact thermoplastic housing with glossy surface and perma-fit assembly for a secure fit.
Electrical Contacts: Silver-cadmium-oxide contacts for superior conductivity and anti-welding properties under heavy loads.
Safety: Fire-retardant polycarbonate shell, glow-wire tested up to 850 °C for shock-free operation.

Artisa & Artisa Flat

Profile: Ultra-thin 7.2 mm plate profile for a sleek, modern look in any setting.
Available in glass, metal (Abstract Silver, Retro Bronze), wood (Natural Teak, Cherry Mahogany), and a wide range of custom colours with UV-stabilized surfaces to resist fading.
Material Quality: UV-stabilized polycarbonate ensures durability and anti-bacterial properties for touchpoints.

Why Choose Cable House for Switches?

One-Stop Range: From industrial power switches to designer modular panels, we offer every switch type under one roof.
Authorized Distributor: Genuine North-West Switch products backed by manufacturer warranties and local support.
Expert Guidance: Our technical team helps you select the optimum switch solution manual or automatic to meet your operational and aesthetic requirements.
Bulk Availability & Delivery: Large in-house stock and fast North India distribution ensures on-time deliveries for projects of any scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check our FAQs for quick answers to frequently asked questions we receive.
If you have other questions write.

What is a changeover switch and when is it used?: A changeover switch is a device that lets you manually transfer a load between two power sources—typically utility and generator—ensuring you can switch over quickly during an outage.
How does a changeover switch work?: When the primary source fails, the switch’s internal contacts break connection to the first source and make connection to the alternate source, either by the user moving a lever (manual) or via built-in control logic (automatic).
What is a main switch (electrical isolator)?: A main switch, or isolator switch, is a mechanical device used to disconnect a part of an electrical circuit from its power source for safe maintenance and emergency shutdowns.
What is a bypass switch in a UPS system?: A bypass switch allows you to divert load around the UPS—either automatically via a static bypass on UPS fault or manually via a maintenance bypass—so servicing can occur without interrupting critical loads.
What is an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?: An ATS is a self-acting, microprocessor-controlled transfer switch that senses utility power loss, starts the backup generator, and automatically transfers the load, then returns to utility when it’s restored.

What is a modular switch?: Modular switches are contemporary wall-plate switches composed of interchangeable modules in a common frame, offering customization in function (e.g., rocker, dimmer), finish, and layout.
What’s the difference between manual and automatic transfer switches?: Manual transfer switches require a user to physically operate the switch to change sources, while automatic transfer switches sense power loss and make the switch without human intervention.
What are the benefits of using bypass switches?: Bypass switches (static or maintenance) provide seamless continuity during UPS faults or maintenance, protect sensitive loads, and allow UPS servicing without downtime.
How do I choose the right transfer switch for my installation?: Select a switch rated for your system’s voltage and load (amps or watts), decide which circuits need backup, and consider features like weatherproofing, indicators, and professional installation per NEC guidelines.
What safety standards govern these switches?: Low-voltage transfer and isolator switches must meet IEC 62271-102 and relevant NEC/IEC safety regulations; modular wall switches comply with BIS/IEC standards for fire resistance and insulation.

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Power-Distribution Switch Types

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