

These come in strips which can be easily cut according to the number of wires you need to connect. When using stranded wire, first twist the strands together (blue wire) then fold them over (red wire). Alternatively, apply solder to stranded wire.Ī choc block connector.

Where the screw clamps the wire in a hole n a brass terminal, it's often helpful to strip sufficient insulation so that you can fold the bare end double, so giving the screw plenty to grip on. In the first case, make sure the bare end of the wire is at least long enough to make a half tun around the screw, and always wrap it round the screw in the same direction as you will be tightening it. In the case of stranded wire, always keep the individual strands together after stripping the insulation by firmly twisting them together, or better still, applying a little solder. The screw head may hold the wire directly or preferably under a washer, or the screw may clamp the wire in a hole in a brass terminal. Probably the oldest method of connecting a wire is with a screw terminal. Mould a little around the cable to protect the damaged section, moulding it onto the connector to prevent movement and thinning progressively away from the connector so avoiding any point at which he cable can be sharply bent. This comes in a mouldable putty-like form and sets within 24 hours to synthetic rubber. If the outer insulation is starting to crack, you're on borrowed time! A simple solution is to repair it with Sugru. Be aware that a poorly made join may heat up and even cause a fire.Ī very common fault is a broken headphone lead at the point where it enters the jack connector. Even if mains voltages are not involved then a short circuit resulting from an uninsulated join may cause damage to other components. If the extension of the wire is beyond 100 feet, consider replacing the wire with a thicker size.Where the wires carry mains voltage it's essential that the join is properly insulated and the wires clamped to prevent the join being strained.

