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Grid Switches

A grid switch system builds a switch plate from separate modules clipped into a mounting frame behind a grid faceplate, so the positions can be different switch types. This range is Knightsbridge grid faceplates from 1G to 12G, mounting frames, and grid modules including 20AX 2-way, intermediate, double pole, retractive, key, toggle and centre-off switches, 10A fan isolators, a USB charger and indicator modules.

Choosing Grid Switches

Build a grid plate in three parts: the faceplate, the frame behind it, and the modules that fill the positions.

Faceplates

Grid faceplates set the size and finish. Curved edge CUG plates in white thermoset resin run from the 1G CUG1 to the 12G CUG12. Metal plates in screwless, flat plate and rounded edge styles run from 1G to 9G. The largest metal plate is the 9G GDFP009PC flat plate, and they come in finishes including brushed chrome, smoked bronze, anthracite and matt black. The PMG8 is a Part M compliant 8G plate.

Mounting frames

The frame clips the modules in place and screws to the back box. Frames are sized by gang, such as the GDF001F for 1-2G and GDF002F for 3-4G at 28mm depth, the GDS003F is a screwless frame for 6-8 modules, and the GDS004F for 9-12G.

Modules

GDM001 is a 20AX 2 way SP module, GDM002 double pole, GDM004 2-way centre off, GDM005 intermediate for a third switching position, GDM006 retractive for momentary controls, and GDM007 a key switch, some marked EMG LTG TEST for emergency lighting.

ModuleCodeUse
2 way SPGDM001Lighting, 20AX
Double poleGDM002Isolating both poles
IntermediateGDM005Third switching position
RetractiveGDM006Momentary controls
Key switchGDM007Emergency lighting test
Fan isolatorGDM02010A triple pole

Fan isolators, USB and indicators

GDM020 fan isolator modules are 10A triple pole, and the GDM016BN dual USB charger module takes 2 grid positions at 5V 2.4A shared. Indicator modules, blanking modules and laser printed rocker covers, such as CUBOOST for a fan boost and CUCOFF for a coffee machine, label the positions.

Brands we stock in Grid Switches

Knightsbridge.

Every grid module, faceplate and frame on this page is made by Knightsbridge.

Related categories

Add fan isolator switches and fused spurs, or coordinate with standard light switches. For compatibility see our Help & Support blog.

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of a grid switch?

A grid switch system lets one plate carry several different switch types, chosen separately as modules. A single Knightsbridge grid plate can hold 2-way, intermediate, double pole, key and fan isolator modules together, which suits kitchens and commercial panels where many circuits are switched in one place.

What parts do I need for a grid switch plate?

You need a grid faceplate, a mounting frame sized for the number of modules, and one module per position. For example, a Knightsbridge GDF002F 3-4G frame with a 4G faceplate such as the GDFP004BC and four GDM modules makes a complete plate with four switch positions.

What is a retractive grid module?

A retractive module springs back after being pressed, so it sends a momentary signal rather than staying on or off. Knightsbridge GDM006 20AX 2 way retractive modules, some marked PRESS, give a momentary contact for controls that need one, such as a door release or a timer boost.

What is a key switch module used for?

A key switch is operated with its key, which prevents unauthorised use. Knightsbridge GDM007 20AX 2 way SP key modules include versions marked EMG LTG TEST for testing emergency lighting, in finishes such as anthracite, brushed brass and smoked bronze.

Can I put a USB charger on a grid plate?

Yes. The Knightsbridge GDM016BN dual USB charger module takes 2 grid positions and supplies 5V 2.4A shared between its ports, in black nickel. It fits a grid faceplate beside switch modules, so charging and switching share one plate without a separate USB socket.

Can grid switch rockers be labelled?

Yes. Knightsbridge laser printed rocker covers mark the purpose of a position, such as CUBOOST for FAN BOOST and CUCOFF for a coffee machine, on curved edge switches. Red neon indicator modules such as the CUGM13 show when a circuit is live, and CUGM17 blanking modules close unused positions.

What sizes do grid faceplates come in?

From 1 gang to 12 gang. Curved edge CUG plates run from the 1G CUG1 to the 12G CUG12 in white thermoset resin. Metal screwless, flat plate and rounded edge plates run from 1G to 9G. The largest is the 9G GDFP009PC. Mounting frames are sized to match, such as the GDF001F for 1-2G and the GDS004F for 9-12G.

Can a grid plate include an intermediate switch?

Yes. Knightsbridge GDM005 20AX intermediate modules and GDM05TOG intermediate toggle modules add a third or further switching position to a lighting circuit controlled by 2-way modules elsewhere. They come in finishes including anthracite, brushed brass, brushed chrome, black nickel and matt black.

Why buy from West Midlands Electrics

  • Established 1975
  • Birmingham trade counter
  • UK-only supply

Written by the West Midlands Electrics technical team

Updated