# ANSI single-pole switch plan symbol Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/ansi-single-pole-switch Publisher: Elora Grid Updated: 2026-10-28 Lookup label: S Drawing use: GA Reference families: IEEE / ANSI ## Symbol convention Convention: IEEE / ANSI Form: Single-pole switch, S US architectural electrical plan practice in the ANSI Y32.9 lineage, read alongside IEEE 315 context; independently drawn, not a certified IEEE or ANSI graphic. US-style plan symbol for a single-pole wall switch: the letter S at the switch position with a switch leg to the lights. ## In plain English ### What does ANSI single-pole switch plan mean? US architectural electrical plans mark a single-pole wall switch with the letter S beside the wall, usually with a short line to the wall. A curved dashed switch leg runs to the controlled lighting outlets, and lowercase letters can tie a switch to specific fixtures. ### A simple example Subscripts modify the S: S3 for three-way, S4 for four-way, SD for dimmer, SK for key-operated and so on. The plain S therefore means a basic single-pole switch. The S does not say rating, colour or device style, which are specified separately. ### What the drawings help you do Check for subscripts that change the type. Follow switch legs or lowercase letters to the controlled fixtures. The IEC one-way switch is drawn as a circle with a stroke; the US form is the letter S. ### This particular reference US-style plan symbol for a single-pole wall switch: the letter S at the switch position with a switch leg to the lights. The IEC one-way switch is drawn as a circle with a stroke; the US form is the letter S. ### Terms - Rating: A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified. - Schematic: A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance. Concept diagram: Identify the device and form → Read the connections and state → Check the equipment reference A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram. - [IEEE/ANSI 315-1975: graphic symbols for electrical and electronics diagrams](https://standards.ieee.org/ieee/315/515/) ## What it represents US architectural electrical plans mark a single-pole wall switch with the letter S beside the wall, usually with a short line to the wall. A curved dashed switch leg runs to the controlled lighting outlets, and lowercase letters can tie a switch to specific fixtures. Subscripts modify the S: S3 for three-way, S4 for four-way, SD for dimmer, SK for key-operated and so on. The plain S therefore means a basic single-pole switch. The S does not say rating, colour or device style, which are specified separately. ## How to read it - Check for subscripts that change the type. - Follow switch legs or lowercase letters to the controlled fixtures. ## Information to show or reference - Draw switch legs or letter keys to fixtures. - Use subscripts for special types. - State mounting height in general notes. ## Important distinction The IEC one-way switch is drawn as a circle with a stroke; the US form is the letter S. ## Facts - Graphic form: Letter S at the wall - Modifiers: Subscripts such as 3, 4, D, K, P - Artwork scope: Original educational illustration; the exact ANSI or IEEE graphic and compliance are not certified ## Public references - [IEEE/ANSI 315-1975: graphic symbols for electrical and electronics diagrams](https://standards.ieee.org/ieee/315/515/) — IEEE Standards Association. Graphic-symbol standards context and official status; not a source of reproduced artwork. ## Graphic scope Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.