lights

504 · Apr 3, 2014

I have a bunch of sockets that were used to make a set of string construction lights, the question is, which wire do I use on the cord to keep the polarity correct? The plain wire or the ribbed one, to the center on the light socket?

JerryBowers · Apr 3, 2014

In a simple 2 wire AC lighting circuit there is no polarity requirement. However, the center contact on the bulb is considered to be 'hot' and the outside (screw base) is considered to be the 'neutral.' Although not at all critical, in the setup you describe, the ribbed lead would usually be connected to the center lead of the socket.

Dusty MI · Apr 3, 2014

(quoted from post at 22:03:42 04/02/14) I have a bunch of sockets that were used to make a set of string construction lights, the question is, which wire do I use on the cord to keep the polarity correct? The plain wire or the ribbed one, to the center on the light socket?

In the code the neutral conductor/wire is often referred to as the identified conductor. In a cord the neutral must always be identified, and often times it uses a rib an identification.

Dusty

Bill in IN · Apr 3, 2014

If you don't have a polarized plug on the cord.....

If you do make sure that the shell is neutral and the pin is hot.

Greg K · Apr 3, 2014

The ribbed one is the neutral. If in doubt ohm it out on a meter if you have one available.

504 · Apr 3, 2014

Thank you gentlemen.
Yes it is a polarized plug(one bigger spade). I just never knew what the ribbed wire was neutral. It will make a cheap set of lights till I get the high bay lights up.

Geo-TH,In · Apr 5, 2014

504,
I remember it this way, grove is ground(neutral).
The center of a light socket is power, smooth.
george

lights

504

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JerryBowers

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Dusty MI

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Bill in IN

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Greg K

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504

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Geo-TH,In

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