Powerlines

----- Original Message ----- From: rws <rws(a)enteract.com> To: Discussion re-collecting of classic computers <classiccmp(a)u.washington.edu> Sent: Tuesday, 27 April 1999 12:42 Subject: Re: Powerlines Same thing is done in rural areas in Oz. They are called SWR lines, which is TLA for Single Wire Run AFAIK. Not sure of the voltage, but I think it's around 8kv. (240v to subscribers) They are somewhat unpopular, and are prone to surges and sags etc. Given the nature of the return path, (ground) and the way it would be affected by weather etc, this is not surprising. 'Normal' mains is delivered to subscribers elsewhere as a single (or two or three - if they can justify it) active, neutral, ground. IIRC, you are allowed a max of 80A per 240v phase. Need is based on Lighting circuits being 8 amp, 1 single standard outlet @ 10A and a HD outlet (for A/C's and the like) @15A. Stoves, Hot water and the like are hardwired to their own circuit and fuse/breaker. Some large homes may need 2 phases, especially now as some of the SAA wiring regulations cut drastically the number of outlets allowed on a single circuit. (Doesn't affect existing installations of course) It's moderately difficult (not to mention expensive) to get a proper 3 phase (415v) outlet installed, ETSA (Electricity Trust of South Australia) simply won't do it unless you can demonstrate you have a real need for it. Cheers Geoff Roberts VK5KDR Computer Systems Manager Saint Mark's College Port Pirie, South Australia. Email: geoffrob(a)stmarks.pp.catholic.edu.au netcafe(a)pirie.mtx.net.au ICQ #: 1970476