Method and Apparatus to Verify the Proper Connection of Loads before Applying Full DC Power

A DC power source or DC switching device that uses a test signal to verify the proper connection of the load (or loads) at its output prior to applying full power to the output. This method and apparatus inserts a low power or low energy test signal at the output terminals of a DC power source and measures the test signal's effect on connected external loads to access the condition and proper connection of these loads before applying full power to the DC output power port. If the test signal detects that a load is connected with a reverse polarity, is shorted, malfunctioning or can otherwise cause damage, it will inhibit the application of full power to the output terminals until the situation is corrected.