In article .com, "Patrick" wrote:
Thanks to all that replied.

If I understand the last reply correctly, the alternating current is
alternating back and forth through the black/red wire. The source of
the current comes from the panel through the black wire, never through
the white wire.

That is correct (provided that the connections in the panel are made
correctly).

What is the purpose of the white wire? To complete the loop?

Correct. An analogy with plumbing may be useful: the black wire is the supply
pipe, and the white wire is the drain.

Where is the loop completed? At the panel?

Correct.

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Regards,
Doug Miller (alphageek at milmac dot com)

Nobody ever left footprints in the sands of time by sitting on his butt.
And who wants to leave buttprints in the sands of time?