Blinker Bulb - A clear bulb with a red-colored tip (some will also have a different colored plastic base).
Center Wire - A small strip of copper wire at the plastic base of the bulb which must always be centered
(Click here for more information on center wires).
Chasing and Programmable Mini Lights - These strands can be programmed to blink in different patterns and at fast or slow rates (or they can be set to be on at all times without blinking). These strands have thicker wires, as they are actually four strands rolled into one. Note: These lights are often more difficult to repair and maintain than regular mini lights. If you use chasing or programmable lights, be sure to use the appropriate replacement bulbs (not a regular mini-light replacement).
Fuses - Safety fuses prevent electrical overload to the light strands. Two types of fuses are used in strands of lights: Replaceable and built-in. We recommend the replaceable style, which usually come with spare fuses. When a built-in fuse blows, you must throw out the whole strand of lights. (Refer to pg. 16 for more information on fuses).
GFI Circuits - Technically, it means Ground Fault Interrupter Circuit. Not so technically, it's the pop-out button on a wall socket that prevents electrical shock - often located near sinks.
Light Tester - An inexpensive product which can help you find a bad bulb, wire or socket on your light strand.
Plugs and Sockets - Found on the ends of light strands, these allow for plugging into wall outlets and adding additional lengths to your light strands.
Replacement Bulb - Extra bulbs that come with the strand, or purchased separately.
Strands - A bunch of bulbs wired together along plastic coated electrical wires. We will show you what to do if a whole strand goes out, part of it, or just one bulb.
Test Set - An extra working light strand.
Timer - A simple, clock-like device that automatically turns your lights on and off at specified times. We recommend them for maximum enjoyment as well as for safety reasons (forgetting to unplug your lights, for instance).
Wall Outlet - The electrical outlet on the wall into which we pluc our televisions, stereos, etc. We denote this item here to point out that in our references, this is not to be considered a "plug" or "socket", but will be referred to specifically as a "wall outlet".
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