Is this awesome instructables project safe?
#1
02-03-16, 12:29 PM
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Is this awesome instructables project safe?
I'd like to hear from the electricians before tackling this great project.
Web Controlled 8-Channel Powerstrip - All
Thanks to the masters,
D
Web Controlled 8-Channel Powerstrip - All
Thanks to the masters,
D
#2
02-03-16, 03:00 PM
Group Moderator
Issue #1: Box is not a UL listed enclosure.
Issue #2: 18ga wire is too small. All the wire should be 14ga for a 15 amp circuit or there should be some type of overcurrent protection (fuse) to protect the 18ga wire.
Issue #3: There is low voltage and high voltage in the same enclosure. And what is with the goofy plug inside the box for the transformer?
Issue #4: Cord should be minimum 14ga wires.
Issue #5: I could not see the ratings but the relays need to be rated for 15 amps.
It is an interesting home project but it is not something that would pass an inspection. If you do decide to make one I would suggest installing an inline fuse on the black wire of the cord and install a 15 amp or less fuse. With that many receptacle available I could see it getting overloaded quite easy.
Issue #2: 18ga wire is too small. All the wire should be 14ga for a 15 amp circuit or there should be some type of overcurrent protection (fuse) to protect the 18ga wire.
Issue #3: There is low voltage and high voltage in the same enclosure. And what is with the goofy plug inside the box for the transformer?
Issue #4: Cord should be minimum 14ga wires.
Issue #5: I could not see the ratings but the relays need to be rated for 15 amps.
It is an interesting home project but it is not something that would pass an inspection. If you do decide to make one I would suggest installing an inline fuse on the black wire of the cord and install a 15 amp or less fuse. With that many receptacle available I could see it getting overloaded quite easy.
Last edited by Tolyn Ironhand; 02-03-16 at 06:11 PM.
#3
02-03-16, 03:29 PM
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Thank you Tony. Your response is very helpful specially the inline fuse suggestion. Would you place the fuse right before the the connection to the red wires?
I must have read it too quickly. Sorry, Tolyn. I still value your expertise.
#6
02-03-16, 06:10 PM
Group Moderator
How do you get Tony out of Tolyn?
People must just read it quick. Yes, I go by Scott in "Real Life" Install a inline fuse holder on the hot (black) wire of the input cord.
Fuse holder: http://www.littelfuse.com/~/media/el...asheet.pdf.pdf
#8
02-06-16, 01:06 PM
Install re-settable fuse/breaker instead of fuse. Many power strips have a small breaker.
That way you can easily reset from overload.
Something like this.
http://www.digikey.com/product-detai...069-ND/1628640
That way you can easily reset from overload.
Something like this.
http://www.digikey.com/product-detai...069-ND/1628640
#10
02-06-16, 03:18 PM
What is a fuse.breaker?
Not to be confused with PTC, which are also called resettable fuse some times.
#11
02-06-16, 05:19 PM
I suppose you could build this thing for under $100, but there are existing products that do this.
Robot Check
Robot Check
Those are two inexpensive items I found on Amazon. Search for IP managed power strip.
If you build, don't buy the cheapest outlets. Get the preferred level. It matters.
Robot Check
Robot Check
Those are two inexpensive items I found on Amazon. Search for IP managed power strip.
If you build, don't buy the cheapest outlets. Get the preferred level. It matters.
