Quick Answer: Double Pole Reversing Key is a manual switch that reverses the direction of current in a low-voltage DC circuit, so polarity can be changed without disconnecting and swapping the leads.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Double-pole design switches two circuit conductors at the same time
Moving the key to the opposite position interchanges the connections and reverses current through the load
Passive device with no internal power or control circuit
Reverses galvanometer deflection and the polarity applied to an electromagnet or solenoid
Power supply, galvanometer, meters, electromagnet, motor and leads are not included
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Product type
Manual current-reversing laboratory switch
Switching arrangement
Double pole reversing action
Circuit function
Reverses current direction or DC polarity
About This Product
In galvanometer and electromagnetism practicals, the reversing key keeps one circuit layout in place while students compare the two opposite current directions, for example watching a galvanometer needle swing the other way or a magnetic field reverse. The DC supply goes to the input terminals and the load to the output terminals. It also suits Fleming's left-hand-rule activities and reversing a compatible low-voltage DC motor in Electrical And Electronics demonstrations, but it must never be wired to mains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What does double pole mean on this reversing key? It means the switch controls two separate circuit conductors at the same time, which is how it interchanges the connections to the load.
Q2. Can the key reverse galvanometer deflection? Yes. Reversing the current through a suitable galvanometer circuit reverses the direction of its deflection.
Q3. Is a reversing key the same as a commutator? In school laboratory usage it may also be called a reversing commutator, because it changes the direction of current through the connected circuit.
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