JDreher

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.

Audiboy

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.

xsrfsno225x

generally speaking, switches go on the hot side

Shard7

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?

JDreher

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

Shard7

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