Re: Question about reversed-polarity in an AC outlet

From: NSM (nowrite_at_to.me)
Date: 02/22/05 

Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2005 05:46:43 GMT

"ChrisCoaster" <ckozicki@snet.net> wrote in message
news:1109042501.023354.64840@z14g2000cwz.googlegroups.com...

> Modern equipment doesn't care about the polarity of Hot and Neutral,
> ehh? Then why in the instruction manual for many appliance and AV
> equipment, and sometimes on the cord itself is stated:
>
> "One blade of this power cord is larger to fit only one way into modern
> power outlets. Do not attempt to alter or disable this safety
> feature".

If the appliance has a double pole switch (or is double insulated?) then you
need not polarize the power cord. If it has a single pole switch it must be
in the 'hot' lead and thus the plug must be polarized. About 20 years ago I
bought a 'power bar' that consists of two long slots into which you can put
plugs any way you wish and as tight together as they'll fit. I'm sure that's
a no-no now - I haven't seen one in the longest time.

N