Test with a multimeter

Slide switch

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Now: Lever on side 1: common to outer pin 1

CircuVanta 6000 counts · auto range DCAUTO•)))HOLDFUSE− HOLD LIGHT OFFV⎓V~Ω•)))FmA⎓ mA400 mACOMVΩ Outer leg 1 1 Common pin (middle) 2 COM Outer leg 2 3 2
Pin 1: Outer leg 1 (1) Pin 2: Common pin (middle) (COM) Pin 3: Outer leg 2 (2)

Red probe Not connectedBlack probe Not connected

Hold the probe and drag it to the tip of a leg. Tapping works too: first pick the probe, then the leg.

Set the range to continuity.

Measure step by step

The middle pin of a slide switch is the common (COM): whichever side the lever slides to, the common pin connects to the outer pin on that side. Use the continuity range to find which pair is connected.

Disconnect the switch from the circuit before measuring; do not use the continuity range in a circuit under voltage.

  1. 1Lever on side 1: common to outer pin 1
  2. 2Lever on side 1: common to outer pin 2
  3. 3Lever on side 2: common to outer pin 2
  4. 4Lever on side 2: common to outer pin 1