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Re: Tech Tips

2001-12-09 by paulhaneberg

Okay, I'll admit I'm confused.  I'm no expert on this AC power stuff. 
My studio is powered by an equipotential AC supply consisting of 2 10 
kilowatt transformers in series which converts the incoming power, in 
this case 240 VAC into 2 phase AC with each phase being 60 volts 
referenced to ground 180 degrees out of phase with each other.  Any 
properly wired device sees this as 120 VAC.  Ground is tied to the 
earth ground for the building through a heavy conductor, 2 gage I 
think.  
Anyway power is distributed through a modified breaker panel with the 
ground and the neutral which isn't really neutral any more isolated 
from each other.  This goes out in a star configuration with only one 
outlet conected to each breaker.  I use a lot of Furman power 
distribution boxes next.  Most equipment is plugged into the Furmans 
but in some cases I do have surge protected outlet strips plugged into 
the Furmans.  In one area because of the heavy concentration of synths 
and rack gear I have a number of outlet strips in series, exactly what 
Paul says I shouldn't do.  
Hum and noise is so low as to be unmeasurable and the balanced line 
supply also seems to be immune from surges possibly due to the heavy 
iron of the transformers.  Although I live in a lighning prone area 
about 2000 feet from the highest point in the county, and have lost 
VCRs, and other equipment to surges (even with a good surge protector 
by the way,)  I have never had any damage to any gear in the studio.  
I don't know enough about the MOVs in the surge protectors or the 
Furmans, or about MOVs in general, but I'd certainly like someone to 
explain this to me so I can change my hookup if there is really any 
danger, or possibly just disconnect the MOVs in the outlet strips.
Help!!!?
Thanks in advance,
Paul Haneberg

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