Which power switch should I choose?

Projects General Guidance
1

Hey guys -

I am working on my first project and using both the Arduino Uno and the Motor Shield and powering them separately with external battery packs (6 volt each). I would like to hook both of these up to one switch so when turned to the on position, both power supplies are turned on at the same time. However, I am unsure which to choose from: Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT), Double Pole Single Throw DPST, etc?

I really appreciate a recommendation and some rationale as well.

Thanks so much!

2

DPST

3

Here are schematic representations of the four basic types of switches. Is it clear from this why DPST is what you want?

switches.jpg

4

Thanks guys. I think the diagram helped a bit. :wink: Since I am just starting out with electronics, I think I have come to the conclusion that for the DPST switch I can treat the two poles as the two circuits to control (i.e. the two battery packs) and single throw meaning there is only one position to switch to (i.e. on from the off state). Thanks!