When you are wiring up electronic components, it is important to triple check each connection. (Not just double check.) Folks new to electronics just don't get this. They quickly push a few wires into position and turn on the power. This invariably results in letting the "magic smoke" out of very expensive electronic components. Paying for the installation of new "magic smoke" a few times seems to bring home the message. (Ask me how I know this.)

        When you are dealing with an expensive piece of electronics, don't be in a hurry to turn on the power.

1) Never work without a wiring diagram. Make your own if needed.
2) Carefully label each end of every wire as you lay it in place in the loom.
3) Double check the labels.
4) As you connect the device. Double check each connection against the wiring diagram.
5) Before you connect a wire, check it with the multi-meter, if possible.
6) Check off each wire on the diagram as you connect it.
7) Come back a few minutes later and check everything one more time.
8) Check anything you can with a multi-meter before you turn on the power.
9) If it is a very expensive device, have a buddy double check your work before you turn on the power.



        Think about how long you worked to earn the money to pay for the device. Take an extra hour or so to make sure that you have the wires connected correctly so you won't have to pay for the device a second time.

        Bill Dube'