A rotary switch has a turn-knob type of actuator that is rotated clockwise to make the circuit contact, and turned again in either the same or opposite direction to break the contact. A three-way switch is a three terminal switch that is always used in pairs. It controls a single load, like a light fixture that is operated from two switch locations. Rotary Switch, Brass KnobFor Lamp Applications2-Circuit, 3-Way, 4 positionOff/L-1/L-2/L 1-23A-250VAC; 6A-125VAC; 3A-125VL3 Wire Terminals: 6 inch long, 18AWG