5 Feb
2011
5 Feb
'11
7:27 a.m.
The real-world difference between North American 240V
and Euro 240V is=20=
the maximum potential relative to ground:
NA: 120 VRMS, 170V peak
Euro: 240 VRMS, 340V peak
That's one difference. The other difference is that in the States you
have a centre-tap available.
Of course, the lower potential to ground is precisely why NA uses the=20
split-phase 120/240: it is much safer for humans but you still have 240=20=
for heavy loads.
For equipment, in theory, there could be a problem if the insulation=20
rating of some component (e.g. caps) could not handle the higher=20
potential to ground. In practice, it's somewhat unlikely a manufacturer=20=
would build anything such that that would be a problem.
They certianly shouldn't. I don't know what your regulations require, but
over here I belive it has to be able to stand at least twice the mains
voltage between the current-carrying wires and ground. I test everyting
at 1000V (and repair it if there's any leakage I can't justify). Note
that 'everything' includes brand-new stuff too, and yus, I've had the odd
faiulur (in fact classic computing equipment seems to be rahter better
than new stuff in this regard).
-tony