If you turn the light on at the switch, and then turn the breaker off, and
the light goes out, then there is no electricity to the switch. This does
not mean that there isn't still a hot wire inside that box. You obviously
don't know enough about basic electricity. I suggest that you either do some
reading or have a friend show you (preferably both). If you still insist on
doing electrical work without the proper knowledge, then make sure you have
enough insurance.

wrote in message
ups.com...
I want to replace some light switches in my house with some of the x10
switches that dim and all that automation stuff. I know how to tell if
a light fixture's power is off - the light goes out! Outlets are easy
because I can plug a light in it. But what about the switch to the
light? I have meter, but I am not sure what to put it on to test the
power. Thank you for any help not getting me killed.