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Introduction
In this wiring configuration, power comes to the switch first, then goes to both of the fixtures. (A single light also can be wired this way.) A single switch can control many fixtures. Just extend the run from one to the next. If you have multiple fixtures on a single line, make sure the wattage or amperage total of fixtures on the line doesn't exceed the maximum indicated on the body of the switch.
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1. Begin making connections
NOTE: Shut off power. Install fixture boxes and a switch box, if they do not already exist (see Installing Boxes in Unfinished Space, Related Projects). Find a junction box that has power from a circuit you can use. Run two-wire cable from the junction box to the fixture box (see Running Cable. . ., Related Projects for instructions on getting power to your fixtures), and from the fixture box to the next fixture box. Connect the ground wires as shown (see Connecting Wires, Related Projects). At the switch box, hook both black wires to the terminals. The current in the black wires passes through the switch so the switch can allow it to flow (on) or stop the flow (off).
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2. Complete the connections
At the switch box, connect the two white wires together. At the first fixture box, connect all three black wires together, and connect all three white wires together. At the second fixture box, connect the black wires together, and connect the white wires together.
Note that you also can control two or more fixtures with the power coming to the fixture, but it's more complicated. Route the power as shown in Wiring Ceiling Fixtures with Switches, Related Projects, and connect the second fixture's black wire to the black-taped white wire in the first fixture box. (For how to connect wires, see Connecting Wires, Related Projects.)
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