How to wire a 3-way lamp socket (basic)

1. Turn power off and unplug the lamp.

2. Identify the wires

   • Smooth / ribbed wire = neutral

   • Ribbed wire goes to the silver screw

   • Smooth wire goes to the brass screw

3. Prepare the socket

   • Remove the socket shell to expose the terminals.

4. Connect the neutral wire

   • Attach the ribbed (neutral) wire to the silver screw.

5. Connect the hot wire

   • Attach the smooth (hot) wire to the brass screw.

6. Tighten screws firmly so no bare wire is exposed.

7. Reassemble the socket and replace the shell.

8. Test with a 3-way bulb

   • Off → Low → Medium → High → Off

⚠️ Always use a 3-way bulb. A regular bulb will not step through light levels.