Audio Asylum Thread Printer

Get a view of an entire thread on one page

FAQ / News / Events

Cable Asylum

Trust but Verify

97.84.254.106

Adapter:

Awhile back I made up this simple little gizmo to provide final verification my latest power cord build was all that it could be... that is, wired correctly. I mean... no need to chance fireworks at initial turn on now is there? Perhaps this has been thought of before, but in the event it hasn't...
So we all need some Idiot Lights in our life, and here's one way to get something useful:
Combine a standard outlet checker, with an IEC C14 to NEMA 5-15R adapter and plug them together. Connect a new or suspect PC build to it, connect the other end to your AC and voila! You'll then know if your latest creation is safe to deploy. Such a simple little thing to do especially if Wifey is looking over your shoulder wondering if the latest megabuck amplifier will survive yet another experiment.

Edits: 06/29/23

Follow Ups:

RE: Trust but Verify - pictureguy 16:26:07 08/30/23 (0)
I've had one of those outlet checkers out in the tool box for DECADES......
Should be part of every DIY guys kit.....
Too much is never enough
If you are verifyin', you ain't trustin' * - Mike K 07:36:42 06/30/23 (1)
Lack of skill dictates economy of style. - Joey Ramone
- And my wallet ain't openin' - Fluter 16:11:29 07/25/23 (0)
  n/t
That's Pretty Handy! - Jonesy 15:32:55 06/29/23 (2)
I usually just use an old Radio Shack DVM and test resistance for continuity or potential shorts on any DIY builds. In fact even new already terminated cables get tested before I ever insert them into my system. You just never know. That includes interconnects too.

Thanks for sharing your idea for testing power cords.

Jonesy

"I know just enough to get into trouble. But not enough to get out of it."
- RE: That's Pretty Handy! - Fluter 05:16:13 06/30/23 (1)
  Yep... such a simple thing to do. I will still perform continuity checks to demonstrate solid connections on the blades just as you do, but this gizmo also validates against cross-wiring, which may occur if you're distracted or mis-document wire colors during the build.
  
  Not a fan of some Euro/Asian color schemes I've run across either so this helps ensure proper assembly and quality assurance.
  - RE: That's Pretty Handy! - Jonesy 07:52:27 06/30/23 (0)
    The DVM can be used for checking cross wiring too but a lot more troublesome than your set up. I do have an AC outlet checker like yours in the pic. Never thought using it that way!
    
    Jonesy
    
    "I know just enough to get into trouble. But not enough to get out of it."

Post a Followup:

FAQ

Post a Message!

Forgot Password?

Moniker (Username):
Password (Optional):
	Remember my Moniker & Password (What's this?) Eat Me
E-Mail (Optional):
Subject:

Message:	(Posts are subject to Content Rules)

Optional Link URL:
Optional Link Title:
Optional Image URL:
Upload Image:
E-mail Replies:	Automagically notify you when someone responds.

To view your new posting or follow-up, click on the RELOAD or REFRESH button on your browser.

This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors: