Wiring

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  Tool Test: Fixed-Base Routers (Subscriber content)

  Fixed-base routers now come with variable-speed switches, soft-start, and precision depth control. Here's a review of available models.

   
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  Cutting Fiber-Cement Siding (Subscriber content)

  Cutting fiber-cement siding can be a dusty job, but a number of manufacturers offer tools designed to keep the air clear.

   
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  Pneumatic Flooring Nailers (Subscriber content)

  A builder and remodeler tests five flooring nailers and reports on what he finds.

   
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  Computers: Your First Router

  Buying a data-com router

   

• Using A Volt-Ohm Meter

  A master electrician describes how to trace wires, identify circuits, and diagnose common job-site electrical problems.

   
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  Toolbox: The Rise of the Inline Saw (Subscriber content)

  The rise of the inline saw

   

• Getting Water From a Well (Subscriber content)

  Dependable rural water supply starts with sizing the pump and using high-quality fittings. A master plumber explains the details.

   

• Q&A: Copper Pipes and Armored Cable

  Q. If a copper water pipe is in contact with the metal sheathing of BX cable, can that contact cause the cable to corrode?

   

• Trade Talk: Switching Lights With X10 Controllers

  Switching lights with X10 controllers

   

• Products (Subscriber content)

  Butt joint coverups, drywall suspension system, compact excavators, acrylic block windows, PVC railings, cordless kits, high-capacity tool pouches, more

   

• Trade Talk: Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (Subscriber content)

  Arc-fault circuit interrupters

   
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  Q&A: Installing Wiring Between Ceiling Strapping

  Q: Here in New England, we usually attach 1x3 strapping to the ceiling joists before installing drywall. At most jobs, I see the electricians stapling the Romex cable to the bottom of the joists, parallel to the 1x3 strapping, so the wiring is about 1/2 i

   

• Q&A: Installing Smoke Detectors

  Q: There are no code requirements for smoke detectors in my area. What is the best type of smoke detector to buy, and where should they be located?

   

• Undercabinet Lighting Options (Subscriber content)

  Fluorescent strips are not the only choice for task lighting below wall cabinets. This overview explains the difference between halogen, xenon, and fluorescent lamps and sorts through the various fixtures available.

   
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  Trade Talk: More New Homes Getting Structured Wiring

  Wiring for the future comes to the present

   
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  Q&A: To Pigtail or Not to Pigtail?

  Q: I have always thought that the best way to wire a receptacle is to use a pigtail lead from the supply wires to the receptacle. My electrician prefers to run the supply wires, and also the wires to the downstream receptacles, to the screw terminals at t

   

• Q&A: Installing 20-Amp Breakers

  Q: In a residential rewiring job, I am removing the existing conductors from steel flex conduit and installing new #12 solid wire, pulled through the flex conduit. Can I convert all of the existing 15-amp breakers to 20-amp breakers?

   

• Q&A: 3/4-Inch Conduit Capacity

  Q: What is the maximum number of 12-gauge wires permitted in 3/4-inch conduit?

   

• Q&A: Wiring Bathroom Lights

  Q: At several jobs, I have noticed that the electrician wires the bathroom light downstream from the bathroom GFCI receptacle. When the GFCI trips, the light goes out. Does this meet the NEC?

   

• Q&A: Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters

  Q: What is an arc-fault circuit interrupter? Are they expensive? Are they subject to nuisance tripping?