Zip Cord

A type of relatively cheap two conductor wire usually found in household floor lamps, table lamps, desk lamps, thus also known as "lamp cord". It is not exceptionally durable nor meant for heavy use. Available in 12-18 AWG, and insulation colors of white, brown, black, ivory, gold, and clear.

It is type SPT and is not allowed in most theatre applications. Where it is permitted, onstage in view of the audience, it should transition to SO or SJO as soon as practicable.

Upon close inspection the two conductors are different--one has ribbed insulation, one smooth. The ribbed is the neutral; and the smooth the hot.

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If both sides of the insulation are clear or semi-transparent, the color of the metal of the conductors is the clue. Silver should be neutral, gold or copper should be hot. For home theater installations the clear insulation and silver/copper is very often used as speaker wiring for no real reason. The electrons don't care one whit the color of the insulation. Sometimes only one leg will have writing on it, that is the neutral.

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