AC Power Cords

More Information about AC Power Cords

It's important to select the right AC power cable for your specific needs. Using the wrong type can lead to problems ranging from inadequate power supply to potential safety hazards. Many people find it beneficial to have extra cords on hand, especially for commonly used devices like TVs, printers, or monitors. This way, if one cord fails or is lost, you have a backup readily available.

If you're looking to buy AC power cords, you can often find them in stock at electronics stores or specialty shops that sell cables and adapters. Prices can vary based on the cord's length, build quality, and other features like built-in filters for power line noise reduction. When purchasing, always make sure that the cord is compatible with the equipment you intend to use it with. Keep an eye out for any compatibility issues and ensure that the power cord you choose meets all your power needs for both the device and the outlet it will be connected to.

AC Grounding Basics: Grounding Series (Part 4)

The NEC states that electrical systems be grounded to a point that the maximum voltage to ground underground conductors does not exceed 150 volts. It also states that any 3 phase 4 wire, Y configurations and Delta configurations have the neutral wire be grounded as well. These requirements cover any electrical systems, ranging from single phase 120 volts, all the way to three phase 480 volts AC.

Conductor Grounding

The conductor that needs to be grounded in these types of systems will always be the neutral wire. A bonding conductor is needed for use between the grounded conductor or neutral wire, and the equipment grounding conductor to the metallic enclosure of the main electrical service. It is important to make sure that a properly sized conductor is used to accommodate the potential surges that may occur in the electrical system. 

When grounding in a separately derived AC system, which is a system where components such as a generator, can have the grounded conductor's continuity interrupted, possibly by a transfer switch, it is important to make sure that the grounding conductor is bonded to equipment grounding conductor of the metallic chassis on the load side of the electrical service through the use of a main bonding jumper. When continuity is not being interrupted on the load side, then it is critical to make sure that there is no bond between the neutral wire or grounding conductor and the metallic chassis of the electrical service. This will allow the main bonding to occur at the main service panel entrance point.