Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

[waylay00]

Can I use an SPST switch for an individual pickup selector?

For instance, I would wire the hot lead from the pickup to one lug, and from that same lug, I would wire it to the input of the potentiometer. On the other lug of the switch, I would wire it to ground. Therefore, when the switch is turned on, the signal would be in contact with ground, thus killing the signal. Am I correct in my thinking? Or would there be problems (eg ground loops, etc)?

I know that I could use SPDT switches, but I have these SPST switches here right now, and it would save me a trip to Radioshack if I could use them.

Here's an example of what I'm thinking:

Thanks for any help.

 

[CJRocker]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

I would imagine for an On/Off you would want an SPDT. Single Throws I believe would be like a kill switch, where they go one way and come back as soon as you let off.

 

[cream123]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

yes. that will work

 

[waylay00]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

Well the SPST is still an on/off switch (not a momentary button).

 

[waylay00]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

yes. that will work

Thanks. That's what I though, just wanted to make sure.

 

[CJRocker]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

Well the SPST is still an on/off switch (not a momentary button).

Gah, my bad then. Don't know why I was under the impression a single throw is momentary. As mentioned it will work then.

 

[cream123]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

it wouldnt work in the way you say it would.

the switch on "off" will not connect the ground and the hot. meaning that the circuit is not complete. the ground is merely the other side of the circuit ( + vs - ), which is connected to the ground wire which is connected to the other side of the pickup coil. so when you connect the two, the circuit is complete. this allows current to pass from one end to the other. think about how a plug won't work if you only have one side of the plug in.

 

[waylay00]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

So would it better to just wire it like this?:

 

[Artie]

Re: Is it possible to use SPST switches as individual pickup selectors?

So would it better to just wire it like this?:

Yes. Your first drawing would not work. That one is good.