Isolation Transformers

Posted by Intacttransforme on August 16th, 2019

The Hot Chassis article mentions using an isolation transformer. There are various kinds of isolation transformer out there, and a few of them aren't appropriate for radio repair. Thus, this article discusses simple continuity tests you might do. Reader Supported Website - Please help keep this website online by with precisely the links to buy your tools or equipment. Your help is greatly appreciated. Inside this Article - Security - Continuity Test - Conclusion - Security - In North America, precisely the AC ground and neutral cables are connected to the service entry. So, technically, that both cables will constantly have continuity.

Even though they seem like wires that are unique, they're actually extensions of the same electrical conductor. There's a simple reason they do that. Your heart could stop. There are many people who found out this the hard way, they're dead now. Water pipes, metal cabinets, radiators. Whatever connects to the ground can complete the circuit. Even when you use an isolation transformer, you need to get in precisely the habit of keeping one hand into your pocket when working on whatever may have mains voltage. This is why an isolation transformer isn't foolproof. Bear this in mind through this article.

If fundamental wiring and power are not your forte, it's a terrible idea to operate on line-powered electronic equipment. Begin with basic circuits with AA batteries and such, and learn power first. It's still possible to get fried if you make a mistake. The radio will still have parts at some AC voltage, relative to other elements within the same radio. Typically that is such a special danger because we do not think of everything in the room since potentially being part of an enormous AC circuit. A proper isolation transformer eliminates this problem. The other reason behind having an isolator is in order that you do not destroy your oscilloscope or other test equipment.

Hot chassis radios can fry these devices because they can have ground clips that connect to the radio itself. And if precisely the radio chassis is live, there goes your oscilloscope. The thing is, even with an isolator; remember YOU could still get electrocuted. A LIVE CIRCUIT CAN STILL BE LETHAL, EVEN WITH AN ISOLATION TRANSFORMER. The isolation transformer doesn't render the radio harmless. The oscilloscope chassis itself might be at 120 volts compared to the radio chassis, or other elements. That could still kill you if you do precisely the wrong thing. That's the reason why I keep saying you should not work on radios if you do not know basic electricity. Not attempting to be mean here and I am not attempting to sound like a broken record.

Article Source

Like it? Share it!


Intacttransforme

About the Author

Intacttransforme
Joined: July 30th, 2019
Articles Posted: 4

More by this author