Color Coding: Speaker wires often have different color codes to distinguish between positive and negative. Standard color coding is:
- Positive Wire: Red
- Negative Wire: Black
However, some manufacturers may use different colors, so always refer to the specific speaker documentation or labeling.
Polarity Markings: Speakers terminals usually have polarity markings (+ or -) indicated near the connection points. Match the positive terminal on the speaker with the positive wire and the negative terminal with the negative wire.
Battery Test: If the speaker wires do not have clear color coding or polarity markings, you can use a 1.5-volt battery to determine the polarity.
- Connect the positive terminal of the battery to one speaker wire.
- Touch the negative terminal of the battery to the other speaker wire.
If the speaker cone moves outward when you touch the battery, the positive wire is connected correctly. If the speaker cone moves inward, swap the wires.
Multimeter Test: You can also use a multimeter set to measure DC voltage to determine the polarity of speaker wires. Connect the positive probe to one wire and the negative probe to the other wire. If the multimeter reads a positive voltage, the positive wire is connected correctly, if reads a negative voltage, swap the wires.
Remember that incorrect polarity can cause sound quality issues or even damage to the speaker. Always double-check the connections before connecting the speaker to an amplifier or receiver.
