Reversing Key / Commutator
Product Code : SCL-EAE-11286
Quick answer: The Reversing Key / Commutator is a single circuit-reversing switch unit. Moving its operating contact from one position to the other swaps the polarity applied to the load, so current flows the opposite way through a coil, meter or galvanometer, as needed in induction and deflection experiments. Lab Exports manufactures it in Delhi for schools, colleges and universities.
Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Unit | One circuit-reversing switch unit |
| Primary function | Reversing circuit polarity and current direction |
| Operation | Operating contact moved between two positions |
| Supplied | 1 x Reversing Key / Commutator |
Contact material, terminal layout and voltage and current ratings are not listed on this page; ask for them with the quotation.
How the reversing key is used
A reversing key sits between the power source and the experimental circuit. In one position the positive side of the supply reaches one end of the load; in the other position the connections are crossed, so it reaches the other end. Conventional current therefore flows in the opposite direction without any lead being moved.
Reversing the current is a routine step in several experiments: the direction of a galvanometer or meter deflection changes, the poles of an electromagnet swap, and in magnetic-field work readings can be taken with the current in both directions and averaged to cancel stray effects such as the Earth's field.
- Place the commutator on a clean, dry, stable bench.
- Identify the supply terminals and the load terminals before connecting.
- With the power off, wire the low-voltage supply to the supply side and the coil, meter or galvanometer to the load side.
- Switch on and note the reading, then move the operating contact to the other position and note the reversed reading.
Key features
- Reverses the direction of conventional current in the connected circuit
- Swaps polarity without disconnecting or interchanging leads
- Shows reversed galvanometer or meter deflection clearly
- Changes current direction through a coil or electromagnet
- Useful in bridge, potentiometer and comparison circuits that need reversal
- Reusable for repeated supervised experiments within its rating
Documentation and supply
Most Lab Exports products carry a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Lab Exports manufactures the reversing key at its works in Laxmi Nagar, Delhi, and supplies it to schools, colleges and universities in India and 60+ countries, handling the export documents for each shipment. More about the company is on the About Lab Exports page.
Related Electrical and Electronics products
- Four Way Plug Key (SCL-EAE-11285)
- One Way Plug Key (SCL-EAE-11287)
- Rheostat 6 Inches (SCL-EAE-11284)
- Two Way Plug Key (SCL-EAE-11288)
- Tapping Key (SCL-EAE-11283)
- Rheostat 8 Inches (SCL-EAE-11282)
The full range is in the Electrical and Electronics section of the Physics Lab range.
Frequently asked questions
What is a commutator used for in a physics lab?
It reverses the direction of current in part of a circuit, for example through a coil, electromagnet or galvanometer, so that the effect of reversed polarity can be seen or readings in both directions can be averaged.
Does the reversing key include leads or a galvanometer?
The listed supply is one reversing key unit. Connecting leads, a power supply, meters or a galvanometer are not listed as included, so add them to the enquiry if needed.
What is the price of the reversing key?
Prices are not published on the website. Add the reversing key to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page, or email [email protected] with the house code SCL-EAE-11286 and the quantity, to receive a quotation.
Does Lab Exports manufacture the reversing key?
Yes. Lab Exports manufactures the reversing key at its works at 11/315, Lalita Park, Laxmi Nagar, Delhi 110092, under house code SCL-EAE-11286.
Request a quote
Email [email protected] with the house code SCL-EAE-11286 and the quantity, or add the reversing key to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page. Tender buyers can also see the Tenders and OEM page.
