random stupid electrical question...
 

when installing a regular ol' manual switch for a DC electrical component, does it matter if the switch is installed on the negative line or the positive line? I always thought positive but in the case of something I'm working on right now the negative would be more convenient.

Thanks.

Depends on what you are powering up. If it has any micro electronics, powerup reset/synchro circuits
 

track positive supply. So powering up negative may cause this electronic equipment to start up out of synch unless another reset is designed in. In general, most electrical equipment made for auto are not affected much by this since it is normal to remove the negative battery cable for service reasons.

Re: random stupid electrical question...
 

generally speaking, switches go on the hot side

Is the component connected to anything else?
 

If so (e.g. an amp), you'll want to stick with the convention of switching the +12v side. Otherwise the ground in the signal lines will prevent it from switching off.

Switching ground can also be problematic if the component has a grounded metal enclosure that could inadvertantly contact a grounded part of the car.

But if it's something basic like a light or a radar detector, switching the ground side probably isn't an issue.

What are you installing?

Re: Is the component connected to anything else?
 

it's a DVD player for an RNS-E. I'll just stick with switching the + side. Thanks for the help.

Yeah, you'll definitely want to switch +12v for something like that