AC polarity

You can buy a polarity checker at the hardware store for about $5...plugs in and has lights that confirm if it's ok or what's switched...

Well I ain't no lectrician like some folks around here but the large slot on the left is neutral and the other narrow one on the right is hot.

Also, this is an area that gets lots of talk up, but an AC source has no "polarity." AC is by definition an equal and repeating plus and minus voltage swing. Switching the plugs or improperly wiring them would have no effect on "polarity." Could be ground/safety issue.

Sincerely, I remain

Dear Jkubina, The black, AC hot wire goes to the narrow blade. There are neat test plugs available for testing. I believe Radio Shack and Hardware stores sell these. cordially, richard.....

Dear people: thanks for your help! BTW, I was NOT referring to channel polarity (phase) but proper house wiring to the AC receptacles, to minimize possibility of hum/noise.

Two comments about polarity: 1) polarity is important to maintain for TV transmission synchronization between the TV camera and the TV set. 2) many new electrical codes require that the outlets be installed "upside down", that is, the grounding plug is now on top. It was explained to me that under the old standard with the hot/ground plug slots on top, there was the (remote) possibility that if the plug was not pushed in all the way, it was possible for a metal object to fall down behind a dresser or a stand and end up shorting the hot/ground terminals. Point being, that the large slot is not always on the left! Happy Tunes!