Electronics Expert question?

[Dr]

HeairBear: If this AB switch you speak of requires 120 Volts to power it I am still screwed

[the_big_m_in_ok]

HeairBear: If this AB switch you speak of requires 120 Volts to power it I am still screwed

I knife switch can be made to handle 120VAC.
It might look like a kluge, though, but it should work as an A/B switch.

--Lee

[MrMag]

Dr.

I think you will have to look at the intercom system. When someone presses the button to talk, there should be some type of relay that is energized. You can use the power connections of this relay to pull in a second relay. The second relay can then be used to switch between speaker. Or maybe easier yet, see what voltage is on the push button and just use that.

To hook up the second relay you would need 2 sets of contacts on it. the common contacts to the speaker. The normally closed to the stereo. The normally open to the intercom. Really shouldn't be that hard.

Hope this helps

[HeairBear]

HeairBear: If this AB switch you speak of requires 120 Volts to power it I am still screwed

A switch doesn't use power really. It just changes the path of the power. Don't confuse a normal on/off switch with an A/B switch. You can use a switch rated for 120V if you need to. Radioshack may carry what you need also, if you don't have any on hand.

You do have alternatives to wiring with wireless solutions too. Is the intercom system already built in? Is this intercom system a one way or two way communication system? If you by any chance have unused phone lines in the home, you may be able to set up a PBX style system for a broader range of options. CableTV and power lines can also be utilized for comm systems if the need arises.

[Dr]

Thanks everyone for your help, I beleive I have it now!!!