does phase matter when wiring inductors?

Printed From: the12volt.com
Forum Name: Car Audio
Forum Discription: Car Stereos, Amplifiers, Crossovers, Processors, Speakers, Subwoofers, etc.
URL: https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=105585
Printed Date: May 15, 2025 at 9:34 PM

Topic: does phase matter when wiring inductors?

Posted By: batook
Subject: does phase matter when wiring inductors?
Date Posted: June 20, 2008 at 9:45 AM

I'm making 3rd order low-pass passive crossovers, thanks to the help files and calculator here. I havn't been able to determine if phase is a concern in wiring my inductors in a 3rd order crossover. Everything I have read on the subject doesn't mention it, only talks about avoiding inductive coupling by orienting them on different axes and placing them far away from eachother.
Maybe there is no mention b/c it doesn't matter which way the signal flows through the inductors, from outside to inside or vice versa, as long as it goes through the coil the rated inductance occurs?

Replies:

Posted By: Steven Kephart
Date Posted: June 20, 2008 at 10:05 AM

You are correct in assuming it does not matter. Otherwise they would mark the leads so you would know which one is which. Good luck with your project!

Posted By: batook
Date Posted: June 20, 2008 at 10:07 AM

Thanks for confirming this

Posted By: haemphyst
Date Posted: June 20, 2008 at 11:11 PM

While it IS true that there is no "in" or "out" on an inductor, I'd wire them all the same... Inside as the input or output, but try not to mix them... Really more an "attention to detail" sort of thing. I'd also not use iron or ferrite cores. THAT is an acoustic thing.

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