Simple method of switching an AC line

A switching circuit for an alternating current line comprising:

• first and second transistors having the emitters thereof connected together and adapted for coupling to one side of an alternating current line, first and second diodes coupled to the respective collectors of said first and second transistors, a load circuit having a first input adapted to be coupled to another side of said alternating current line and having a second input coupled respectively to the anode of said first diode and to the cathode of said second diode for developing an alternating current across said load circuit input;
• direct current bias means coupled to the respective bases of said first and second transistors;
• switch means coupled to the bases of said first and second transistors for shortcircuiting bias signals applied to said bases when said switching means is closed;
• and wherein said first transistor is NPN, said second transistor is PNP, and said direct current bias means is output coupled directly to the base of said PNP transistor and is coupled through a resistor and a third diode to the base of said NPN transistor for providing a series connection between said transistors and said bias circuit.