Anyone ever here of these two rules: (Two simple rules I have known since I started the trade.)
Follow the short from the source.
In this method you follow a short by measuring its ohm value, and following it though and taps of the circuit until you find it or pass it. If you pass it, take one step back. There it is... In this process you're splitting the circuit down to managable parts, only following the path of the short. Works the same for over-load, or indirect short.
Follow the open to the source.
When following an open, you start from the device without power, (Phase or Neutral) and follow the circuit back through the successive devices and conductors that provide power to it.
Like my chess comment, it's just like knowing which way the pieces move... Niether rule requires any schematic.
I vaguely remember some accronym...
Interview the operator.
Determine the problem.
Expose the circuit
N...(Now learn the circuit operation.)
T... (Test, and take notes.)
Isolate the circuit.
Follow the path to the problem.
Y... (Something like "You're done, now fix it.")
I don't have a lot of time right now, the wife wants to go to dinner, but later I'll post some more.
[This message has been edited by e57 (edited 09-12-2005).]
