Initial voltage check failed

[Shackney1127]

Hi,

      Just finished the input wiring. When I plugged it it, there was a spark. I'm only reading a small fraction of a volt. I double checked I had my multimeter set to AC volts and that I had things plugged into the proper ports on the multimeter. I checked the fuse, and it appears to be intact. Checked all the solder joints, and they all seem solid. I'm in the States, so I know I should be getting 120 volts. Any ideas?

Thanks,
Stephen

[Doc B.]

Firstly you need a better wire stripper. The insulation should be cleanly cut rather than frayed. That can cause conductivity issues if the frayed insulation gets into the joint. Secondly it looks like you may have wiped connections with a cloth or cotton ball. I see strands of something on the terminals. It could be that those shorted and burnt when you powered up the circuit. It would be best to remove the fibers.

I'll suggest you might watch this for some ideas on the best approach to stripping wires, connecting them and soldering them-