|
| this came up on the electrical forum. Would reverse polarity likely cause a computer PSU to fail and would it do so in the dramatic manner described below?
I tested my desktop computer in a three prong outlet using a surge protector, and it worked fine. I then attempted to install the computer across the room where my desk is using a different outlet. This was a two prong outlet, so I bought a two to three prong converter for it, and plugged my surge protector in there. I didn't even turn my computer on, but about a minute after plugging it in sparks started shooting from the power supply of my computer. It is now dead. I called the landlord, and they sent an electrician in. He told me that the outlet has something called "reverse polarity |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
- Posted by poohbear2767 (My Page) on Wed, Aug 1, 07 at 23:25
| I may be wrong, but I would think it wouldn't matter. The hot and neutral lines come in on the AC side and go thru a transformer to drop the voltage to the proper level. Then the AC current goes thru a full wave bridge rectifier to convert it to DC. Then it gets filtered to get smooth DC. I would think it wouldn't matter which way the primary side of the transformer was hooked up to AC. Anyone care to confirm or correct any of this? Pooh Bear |
|
| Reversed polarity affects personal safety in certain situations, but will not cause the equipment failure and fire. |
|
- Posted by rayfromalaska (My Page) on Sun, Aug 5, 07 at 2:33
| A surge protector need a ground to work, but a GFI outlet may work. |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Electronics Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.