Electrical – How to wire this ceiling lamp

Procedure

• Turn off power to the lighting circuit
• Test that power is off using a non-contact voltage detector (NCV) and/or Cat-II multimeter.
• If necessary to prevent cable chafing, fit a cable grommet to the backplate cable opening. (since the backplate may be heated by the lamp, you may need to look for a grommet that can be used in hot conditions)
• Strip the insulation from the ends of the live and neutral wires.
• To the screw attach an earth wire (bare or green/yellow in UK)
• In the hole above the embossed "L" push the live wire (brown in UK).
• In the hole above the embossed "N" push the neutral wire (blue in UK).

Notes

• The push-fit connections are unusual in UK fittings and are intended for solid-core wires (not stranded)
• The holes connected to the metal strip are not for powering the light.
• The fitting appears to be designed for use with a separate junction box fitted in the ceiling.

• Live wires from a light-switch sometimes have the wrong colour insulation but are marked with red tape (indicating switched-live).

• Typical wiring for a ceiling lighting fitting in the UK is as shown below

Note that this image does not show the strain relief that must be present on the hanging cable. Fittings with exposed metal parts will need a protective earth connection. The one you have looks like it particularly needs this!

This is assumes we're talking a screw in bulb socket like a medium base A26. You can adapt the below for other socket types.

The first thing to do is test the socket itself. Best way to do this is to use a multi-meter set to AC and an appropriate voltage setting for your supply voltage. Using the test leads, touch the bottom pin and the metal of the base exterior (the part the bulb screws into). It should read your supply voltage. If it does not then there is an issue with the socket itself. If it reads the correct voltage, either your bulbs are bad or they are not making contact with the socket. With the power off, try using a screw driver to gently lift the bottom pin up a bit and then try your bulb again.