I'm wondering what's the difference (if any) in connecting a load (e.g. a light) to a switch by connecting the ground at the switch or the power at the switch. In other words, there are two options: the switch can act as a a connector to join the load's grounds, or its power. Is there a difference? And what's recommended, when? I see different people connecting it in different ways, but I can't find an explanation.

 

No electrical difference, you can choose either depending which is more convenient in terms of setting up the wiring and such

 

So that's the short of it, radu: no difference smile.gif Thanks, dude! Makes me feel better. I was really curious.

 

If you expect that any shorts are likely to occur, there is a slight difference.. For example, with the switch at ground, the rest of the circuit will be at +12V so if a wire to metal ground short occurs, the fuse will blow even without turning the thing on. Still unimportant, that's about it haha

 

True. Makes sense. cool.gif

 

12v system is closed. You'll have 12 volts through out the whole circuit. I believe there is a small difference in amperage as well. Maybe DTN can confirm.