17 Feb
2003
17 Feb
'03
4:28 a.m.
On Mon, 17 Feb 2003, Vintage Computer Festival wrote:
Be aware that you are asking to plug a 30-amp device into a standard wall
outlet (I assume you mean a standard US receptacle with two vertical
blades and possible a ground pin). This is not recommended, since those
types of receptacles usually only accomodate up to 20 amps. You need a 30
amp circuit. ^^^^^^^^^^^
^^^^^^^^^^^^
Not so fast, there, Edison! ;}
In this case, only if the equipment *actually draws* the maximum 30
amps... the controller and mains cordset are sized to accomodate the
greatest load that particular system can be configured for. This is almost
never what the machine actually wants. The purpose of the 30-amp plug is
to ensure that safety considerations are followed, and also to have enough
reserve power available for additional equipment installations and
upgrades, and to avoid 'nuisance tripping' if the system power consumption
gets at or near the mains circuit breaker capacity.
For example, my PDP 11-44 draws 7.3 amps from the 110V line when it's
running, including RL02 activity, and it came with one of those plugs.
I just get a nice 'standard' plug from the HomeMegaHardwarePlex near me
and perform a connectorectomy on it. Problem solved.
If you are really trying for a "100 point" restoration, then I'd use the
mains adapter, but otherwise, just change plugs.
Cheers
Nicky Tesla