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Subject: Re: Small chance
Name:
Castle50
Date: 1/9/2002 7:18:42 PM (GMT-7)
IP Address: 209.17.77.96
In Reply to: Re: Small chance posted by
 TKO
Message:
110Volt grounds wouldn't cause the problem you are listing, although I think MS is referring to the system ground which could possibly be making the system unstable. Suprising how many users are on un-grounded electrical systems.
Power problems can arise from the insulated grounded conductor (white wire or neutral) overheating, breaking contact, or both. If this wire is loose or overheating massive computer damage can occur. I just repaired a home that lost 1-small tv, 1- Big Screen, cable box and numerous small appliances from this type of problem.
Looking at the devices in the wall, if your receptacle has only two prongs, your on a ungrounded system (although not all is lost since some have grounds inside the box). If your device has two vertical prongs and one half arched shaped, your probably have a grounded system. The small 2-3 prong adapters usually don't work since they are not always installed correctly. Looking at the receptacle: the large slot is the insulated ground (white). This should have continuity between it and the small arched shaped prong. Both of these will give you approx 108-130 Volts between them and the small vertical slot (hot wire)Remember to set the meter to voltage when performing. Any more or less (United States) should be looked at. Appliances can draw the voltage down if on the same circuit thus creating the problem. Similar to the lights dimming when the AC starts (which is normal).
Grounds(bare copper or green) are crucial to computers and should be used but insulated grounds are by far much more important.
Let me know if you need any further assitance.
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